We are delighted to share some incredible news – our Head Coach, James Bowden, has been crowned the 2025 ESF European Masters Over 45s Champion!

Taking place in Wrocław, Poland, and following rounds of competition, the Over 45s category provided the day’s most dramatic finals, and James delivered a performance to remember. As the men’s top seed, he produced a string of excellent results throughout the tournament, combining skill, determination, and tactical control to reach the final against Germany’s 3/4 seed, Heiko Schwarzer.

The final turned into an absolute classic. James found himself two games down after losing the opener 4–11 and a tight second 7–11. But true to form, he showed the mental resilience and physical toughness we all know him for at the club. Rally by rally, he clawed his way back, taking the third 11–7 and the fourth 11–6 to set up a nail-biting decider.

In an electrifying finish, James held his nerve to edge the fifth 14–12, completing a stunning comeback to take the title 3–2.

It was a victory built on grit, experience, and composure under the fiercest pressure – qualities James demonstrates every day in his coaching and his game.

The whole club is incredibly proud of this achievement, and we’re thrilled that a European Champion is one of our own. Congratulations, James!