08/01/2014
Fellow Gamers-
As I think back to last weekend and the success that was the 2014 Flatlander Games I have a sense of immense pride. And not the type of pride in my teams’ performance, but more so in terms of what we stand for and what we are willing to do to keep our traditions going.
Coming into the weekend I had serious concerns of whether (or not) this would be the last Flatlander Games ever. I was overwhelmed with anxiety of whether the township would react to us proceeding as planned (and all the possibilities of neighbors causing us issues). I love this event with all my heart and that is why I fought so very hard for it.
Our existence, our legacy was in the balance and when I told you all that we had to “do good” I meant it. And the way our gamers responded with everything that was asked of them (quiet hours & revamped schedule) was unbelievable. Even more so was the camaraderie between the gamers and how all weekend long I seen our guys showing what it meant to be gentlemen. It puts a smile on my face even now as I sit here typing this message to all of our faithful participants. Cheers to each and every one of you!!!
You guys really stepped up to the plate for “our event” this year, which to me made it such a special experience. We changed the schedule on you guys at the last minute and you handled it with grace. We put you through a grueling line up of non-stop gaming and not once did I hear a gamer complain about the pace. You handled it so well that we will move forward with this new scheduling strategy for years to come.
I think we learned something about ourselves and “our event” this year. We come to game! Yes, we are there to have a good time and cut loose, but the competitive nature of this event has finally taken over. Best competition I have seen so far and I think it will only get better! Practice makes perfect!
That being said, big changes are coming for the Flatlander Games as we work to “right size” our event. What it all comes down to is that this event is a privilege and moving forward we need to do a better job of treating it as such. The majority of us understand what that means and we will push to get everyone on the same page. We will change how gamers are invited to the event (no more open door policy), we will change how teams are formed, and we look at what it truly means to be a Flatlander.
So you can guarantee we will be working behind the scenes on what the right formula for continued success will be and preparing for the 10th Annual Flatlander Games!
Much love to all of our gamers!
