The scenario paintball scene often celebrates the major productions like CPX Legendary Events and the Super Game Series. But large events and big games couldn’ t survive with the proving ground of local productions. These local events are an essential component of the game. They not only provide fresh outlets for relaxed play to local players, but they expose entry-level players to another level of competition. Smaller events are not only the place where connections are gained and relationships are forged, but they are a training ground for competitors and future leaders of the sport.
But the list of local events that come and go is long, and it grows longer each season as producers realize just how difficult it is to run a successful event. Many will become one-offs, and very few survive beyond five years.
One event that has consistently rebutted the pattern is Splatoween, a Big E production brought to us by Eric Holland. Defying the odds, Splat celebrated its 20th Anniversary on October 26th at Outdoor Xtreme Hatfield.
Every year, this Halloween-centric event has a new theme ranging from Candy Land wars to this year’ s Star Wars backdrop. But the principle of the event remains the same: a focus on the tri-state paintball community and growing the sport.
This year, Holland chose commanders from the Eastern Paintball League scene. Abby Bunnell and Lorne“ Panda” Leyes, who may be partners in life, squared off as enemies on the field.
Bunnell led the Blue Jedis, The Galactic Defense Force, and Leyes commanded the Red Hutts, The Brotherhood of Darkness. Both sides were allotted a number of human shields to employ in the Juggernaut Jedis and Invulnerable Sith Soldiers. And they were harassed all day by a
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