My son, “M”, loves to invite his neighborhood friends over to participate in different tournaments. A couple of years ago we hosted several Pokémon tournaments over the summer. The neighborhood kids always enjoy the tournaments and want to know when we are having our next one.
At the beginning of summer, our kids make a list of rewards and Hubby and I make a list of things they can do to earn them. Like most tween girls, “T” (my daughter) wants to have several girls spend the night and watch movies. On the other hand, “M” wants to have friends over for a tournament. Boys… I am learning it is always about doing an activity together, oh, and competition.
“M” has been obsessed lately with two things, Topps Attax and MLB 2K10. I knew, when he mentioned a tournament, that he would choose one of those. If you aren’t familiar with Topps Attax, check out the 2010 Topps Attax Starter Deck (1 Pack)
. This has kept the neighborhood boys busy on rainy days or when they need a break from the heat.
“M” really wanted to do a MLB 2K10
Tournament but we had to deal with the logistics of several games going on at the same time. The boys in the neighborhood were very interested in participating and several boys loaned us their Xbox! We figured out the best scenario included 3 Xboxes and up to 10 boys.
The choice was made and we began making plans for a MLB 2K10 Tournament. We think this tournament would make a great boys birthday party.
We sent out invitations, making sure the parents understood that this was not a party, but a tournament. The boys would play each other and the winner would receive a signed Hunter Pence baseball. The boys were excited about the tournament and some went into “training mode”.
The day of the tournament, Hubby set up three stations. The first station had an Xbox hooked up to a projector which displayed on the wall (very nice and big). The second station was on our regular TV in the Family Room and the third station had an Xbox hooked up to an old TV and placed on the kitchen table.
We also thought it would be fun to interview the kids as they arrived and while they were eating pizza. “T” (my daughter) was in charge of the arrival interviews. We set up an interview area which included some 2K Sports and MLB 2K10 logos taped to the wall, 2 barstools and our Flip camera. We had several interview questions, including “What’s your strategy going into the tournament?” and “Tell us about your training program.” The kids had no idea we were doing interviews and some of the responses were hilarious. Check out the video at the end of the post.
After the boys ate and were interviewed, Hubby went over the rules and the kids were divided up into teams. Since we had 9 kids total, we had 3 Rounds and 3 kids were able to watch the other games. “T” continued to cover the games and interviewed the players after each round. The kids loved this!
When it was time for the championship game, they all gathered into one room to watch. Of course, “M” made it to the championship game. Before the final game, Hubby made an announcement, “If “M” wins the championship game, we will have a drawing for the Hunter Pence ball.” During the game, we noticed the kids were cheering for “M” and chanting his name. Luckily, the other player didn’t seem too bothered.
“M” did end up winning the championship game and we were able to give all the players another chance to win the “coveted” ball. One lucky player received the signed ball and all the other players received a signed baseball card from players such as Joe Nathan, Hideki Okajima and Lance Berkman. The boys were thrilled since they had no idea they would end up with a “prize” too.
After the boys left, Hubby went to work on the video. The next day the parents received an email with a 10 minute video recapping the night.
For those that are interested, I have a short photo story from the night which is less than a minute. In addition, I included the longer version, which is almost 5 minutes. If you are considering doing a tournament, I would suggest watching the video.
M’s birthday is coming up and we will certainly consider another MLB 2K10 Tournament.
Photo Story from the Tournament
If you are interested in seeing more about the party or
considering hosting your own tournament, watch the video below.
Side note: I am thankful for my Hubby who loves to create “memorable” moments for our kids. Including Our Annual Haunted Halloween Party, M’s Star Wars party when he dressed up as Darth Vader and T’s Girl’s War & Slime Birthday Party!
We would love some feedback on the tournament. Do you have any great ideas we could have incorporated into the event?
Have you ever hosted a tournament like this? If so, tell us about it.
Cammie Moise
Want to get posts like these delivered straight to your email so you don’t miss the latest articles? Then sign up for MomsMaterial’s free email subscription and stay up to date on the latest parenting articles, tips and tricks. Interested in keeping your family safe online or managing your online reputation? Then check out our other site, CyberSafeFamily.
Be sure to “Like” MomsMaterial on Facebook and follow MomsMaterial on Twitter @MomsMaterial.
Related Articles
Looking For Lego Birthday Party Ideas?
Birthday Party Planner
Star Wars Birthday Party Games
Star Wars Birthday Party Invitations
Super Mario Birthday Party Ideas
Great Birthday Party Game – Make Your Own Board Game