09.03.2009

v.l.: Runge (2.), Hußmann (1.), Gepel (3.)

...travelled to Australia for the past ISA Team Tournament, took home the trophies.
Home field advantage
One cannot deny the home field advantage the National Shuffleboard Center offers for those who regularly use its courts. Even the reigning German Champion, Sebastian Runge, had to acknowledge that. Although he once again reached the final of an official tournament he had to recognize the dominant and accuurate play of youngster Torben Hussmann.
Thrilling match for third place
In a thrilling match between two Selbold Shufflers, Adrian Gepel won against Monika Hille with his last disc and finally climbed the podium. Nevertheless Monika took comfort from the points for German ranking and the fact that she ended up as the best lady in the tournament.
Valiant Newbies
Once again some new Shufflers found their way to start competing in a tournament. These "Newbies" did a good job and fought the experienced players. But most of all, Hans and Irmgard Rudl, Gerd Irion, Terry Thien und Gerrit Funtan had fun. On top of that Gerrit Funtan finished 18th and became best rookie.
Influence on German Ranking
The Wintercup's results have strong influence on German Ranking. Winner Torben Hussmann comes close to current leader Sebastian Runge and is on top of the "Shuffler of the Year" list. Adrian Gepel as well as Monika Hille, Harald Bothmann (5th) and Lore Wüllner (6th) move forward to gain points for the qualification for next year's ISA tournament in Germany.
Speed Shuffleboard in May
The next nationwide tournament will be held in May, when all German Shufflers are called upon to demonstrate their abilities in SpeedShuffleboard. This special form of Shuffleboard is getting more and more important as it is used to break the tie in a pool play tournament. Some of this year's players in the finals had to pass this "Shoot-Out" to reach the finals and in October this "Tie-Breaker" play will find its way into the World Singles tournament in Zephyrhills, Florida. As Germany is pioneer in using this system, this might tip the scales when it comes to  a shoot out.
Organization as top as ever
Mostly unnoticed by the public the organization committee did a fine job as usual. Treasurer Birgitt Hussmann had everything under control and all the helping hands were warmly welcomed.
Results in detail:
1. Torben Hussmann
2. Sebastian Runge
3. Adrian Gepel
4. Monika Hille
5. Harald Bothmann
6. Lore Wuellner
7. Dieter Hussmann
8. Dieter Hoffmanns
9. Sven Wuellner
10. Marcel Hinkel
11. Birgitt Hussmann
12. Oliver Schwarten
13. Jose da Silva Pires
14. Eva Gepel
15. Christopher Hoentsch
16. Regina Schwarten
17. Dorothee Loist
18. Gerrit Funtan
19. Terry Thien
20. Hans Rudl
21. Birgit Bothmann
22. Irmgard Rudl
23. Irene Hoffmanns
24. Gerd Irion
25. Dieter Wuellner
25. Sofia Pires
25. Birgit Erb