Final Round Drama in Colchester as English Championship Season Closes
- Simon Bodily
- Jul 15
- 2 min read
Saturday 12 July 2025 – The sixth and final round of the ESA English Championships 2024/25 brought players from across the country to Stanway Rovers Flickers Subbuteo Club in Colchester. With league standings still to be decided and one last haul of trophies up for grabs, the day delivered excitement, drama, and a heart-warming display of sportsmanship.
Main Event
In a tense and high-quality final, Chris Short edged out Martin Hodds with a commanding 3–1 victory, sealing both the tournament win and the overall Championship trophy.
Both finalists had to navigate tough semi-final matchups, Hodds overcame Richard Badger 3–1, while Short swept past Sam Curtis 3–0 in an impressive performance.
Winner: Chris Short
Runner-up: Martin Hodds
Plate Event
The Plate competition was equally gripping. Adam Douglas claimed the title after a dramatic 2–2 draw in the final against Terry Arnold, holding his nerve to triumph 2–1 in the shootout.
Douglas reached the final by defeating Adam Jackson, while Arnold battled past Marco Ghigliotti in two hard-fought contests.
Plate Winner: Adam Douglas
Runner-up: Terry Arnold
Youth Spotlight: A Day to Remember for Jacob Hodds
While there was no formal Youth final, Connor Gregory emerged as the highest-placed youth player of the day, with Jamie Warren finishing runner-up. But it was young debutant Jacob Hodds who truly captured hearts.
Competing in his very first English Championship event, Jacob, by far the youngest player on the day, was welcomed warmly by the Subbuteo community. In a wonderful show of sportsmanship, each of his opponents took time during their matches to offer coaching, advice, and encouragement, helping him build confidence and enjoy the experience.
This gesture of collective mentorship reflects the values the ESA and its members hold dear: inclusivity, encouragement, and the nurturing of new talent.
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