IT Technician and two-time table football champion, Nick Bell, wasn't able to make it a third title win in this year's annual THIS table football tournament. He was unable to join the tournament, leaving an opportunity for rookie sensation and Service Desk Analyst, Sufyaan Kholwadia, to sweep in and claim the title. This was Sufyaan's first year participating in the tournament and what a debut the young star has made.

The tournament saw some exciting and close games this year, with a match between Assistant Director, Julian Bates and Service Desk Analyst, Hamad Sarwar, being a particular highlight for fans. Julian managed to pull back from a difficult position and after two legs, and with one win each, the game went to sudden death. After a nerve-racking game, Hamad managed to secure victory, and in doing so also secured himself a place in the grand final.

The battle for the title began with a first leg win for Sufyaan, who beat Hamad 7-4. Things didn't improve for Hamad in the second leg, as Sufyaan roared to victory with an outstanding 7-0 victory.

Speaking during a post-match interview, Sufyaan said: "I watched last year's tournament and it made me want to compete this year. People say I'm quite competitive and I did feel that streak come out when I was playing. I've really enjoyed taking part.

"I was disappointed Nick didn't enter this year. I 100% know I could have beaten him if he had! But I'll be back next year to defend my title, and if anyone wants to take the crown… they're welcome to try!" 

The table football tournament has been running since 2022 and is organised by Senior Backend Web Developer, Bryde Town and Assistant Web Developer, Adam Kirby. We hope to see it return next year and find out if Sufyaan can defend his title.