NXL TAMPA RECAP
The 2025 National Xball League (NXL) season commenced with the Tampa Bay Open from March 7-9, held at the renowned Raymond James Stadium in Tampa Bay, Florida. This event marked a significant return to the area, drawing teams and fans worldwide for the first weekend of NXL paintball action.
This for me was a return after 22 years, having last played the Tampa NPPL in 2005! While I didn't compete here at the event, it was nice to take a back seat and watch things unfold without having to deal with too much...drama!
Event Overview
The Tampa Bay Open featured your standard divisions, including X-Ball for Pro, Women's Pro (WNXL), Semi-Pro, and Divisions 2-5; 5v5 formats for Youth, Divisions 3-5, and Women's Amateur; 10v10 Amateur matches; 3v3 Youth, Novice, and Amateur games. The event also showcased a vibrant trade show that gave us an opportunity to show off the new DSR Pro and a few other secret items.
Professional Division Highlights
In the Professional Division, teams did as expected with a few upsets. Some exceptional skill and strategy were on display as this layout defiantly proved to be challenging for some.. Paintball Fit of Dallas shocked everyone, again. They delivered a standout performance, showcasing their dominance and tactical prowess throughout the tournament. Their matches were characterized by aggressive plays and cohesive teamwork, reaffirming their status as a top-tier team in the league.
Semi-Pro Division
The Semi-Pro Division witnessed intense competition, with TPP Crew emerging as the champions. Their journey through the tournament was marked by strategic excellence culminating in a well-deserved victory.
Women's Pro Division (WNXL)
The Women's Pro Division added a dynamic layer to the event, with teams like the Femmes Fatale Paintball Team delivering remarkable performances. Their matches were closely contested, highlighting the growing competitiveness and talent within the WNXL.
Trade Show and Community Engagement
Beyond the on-field action, the Tampa Bay Open featured a bustling trade show that attracted numerous vendors and enthusiasts. Dye was at the forefront showing off our new DSR PRO! The event fostered community engagement, offering attendees the chance to connect, explore the latest paintball gear, and immerse themselves in the sport's culture.
Looking Ahead
Overall I would say that is was a successful kickoff of the 2025 NXL season at the Tampa Bay Open and this sets a promising tone for the year ahead. Teams are now gearing up for upcoming regional events, aiming to build on their performances and strive for redemption in Atlantic City in May. You can bet that we will have a recap after each event as well as our own video highlights!