06-03-2025
2025 North American Pinball National Championship in full swing in East Rochester
EAST ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WROC) – Folks from across the nation are flipping out over the 2025 North American Pinball Championship, which is being held right here in the Rochester area!
The International Flipper Pinball Association (IFPA) puts together the event annually, with The Pinball Collective in East Rochester's Piano Works Plaza chosen as the host for this year. It unifies the highest-ranking pinball players in the continent, from those on the west coast all the way to our very own Rochesterians.
One competitor is Bowen Kerins, who currently ranks 24th in the IFPA and is one of the best in Massachusetts. Even with his decades of experience, he says tournaments like this one serve as opportunities for him to learn more about the game.
'There are so many skill moves in pinball that I don't know them all, and I've been playing in tournaments for 30 years,' Kerins said. 'Everyone is learning from each other at such an increased pace now that tournaments are online, from gameplay videos and from each other.'
Around 58 people in total are competing in this year's championship, all with a common passion for pinball. It's the first time the tournament has come to New York State.
Kerins says it provides a great opportunity each year to introduce new folks to competitive pinball while also building their community.
'At least two dozen players this year have never been at a tournament of this caliber, alongside players who are here every year because they're extremely good,' Kerins said. 'You get a whole new group of people who are learning while also trying to win.'
Also attending the championship is Project Pinball, which raises money to bring pinball machines to children's hospitals and Ronald McDonald houses across the nation.
Kerins explains how the game has brought about many lifelong friendships for him and many others.
'I'm really proud that we've created a culture and a community that supports the growth of each other, aiming to create better and better players over time.'
The 2025 North American Pinball National Champion will be unveiled Thursday night and will receive a $7,000 prize along with a trophy showcasing their feat.
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