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BFBS (British Forces Broadcasting Service) yesterday hosted and livestreamed the Grand Final of the inaugural BFBS Pro League at the University of Staffordshire, one of the UK’s leading institutions in esports education and innovation, in their cutting-edge £5.5 million Beacon Building.
The landmark event marked the next chapter for military gamers, putting the first generation of UK Armed Forces gaming talent at the forefront of global esports audiences. Featuring Rocket League, and built exclusively for the UK Armed Forces community, BFBS esports harnesses the worldwide phenomenon of the game to create a competitive arena where serving personnel, their family members, reservists, cadets, Royal Fleet Auxiliary personnel, veterans, MOD civil servants, and members of the bereaved community can showcase their skills on an international stage.
Eight teams faced-off in a high-octane battle for the championship crown with British Army squads, Royal Air Force teams and civilian players all chasing glory. This was more than just a tournament – it was a platform driving connection, resilience, and community across the forces through one of the world’s fastest growing sports.
Guests not only witnessed thrilling esports clashes, as the teams competed for title, cash and other prizes but were also treated to a special performance by the Staffordshire & West Midlands (N) Army Cadet Force Corps of Drums, an exclusive visit from the legendary BFBS Operation Ice Cream van and met the Staffordshire Regimental Association’s mascot, a Staffordshire Bull Terrier named Sgt. Watchman VI.
The winners of the 2025 BFBS Pro League Grand Final were the phenomenal BOOST OVER BALL, a civilian team made up of a son of a veteran, and two grandchildren of those who have served (players: Ryan Huijsman, Tijmen Kirkels, Joshua Parr).
Adam Waters, Director of BFBS Academy & Creative, said: “Esports has the power to sharpen cognitive skills vital in the armed forces, but just as importantly, it builds connection. That’s what makes this league so special. These players have been phenomenal all season, the Grand Final was a showdown of skill, passion, and pride. We created something tailored to this unique community, where players across ranks and regions could come together through their shared passion.”
Robert Wylie, Head of BFBS Esports, added: “The enthusiasm and talent we’ve seen has been off the charts. Whether you’re a seasoned player or picking up the controller for the first time, this league has proven there’s a huge appetite for esports in the forces. The Grand Final showed not only the extraordinary skill of these players, but also the power of gaming for the armed forces.”
About BFBS (British Forces Broadcasting Service)
BFBS is a military charity and media organisation that entertains, informs, connects, and champions the UK Armed Forces. We bring trusted and secure entertainment, news, sport, and information services to the military, their families, and veterans worldwide. We spread happiness and keep people in touch, helping build morale among the military overseas and at sea, offering them a way to share experiences, as well as a valuable connection to life back home. BFBS is a leader in defence news. Our broadcast teams have specialist military knowledge and produce unique, exclusive content for our BFBS Forces News channels. And our commercial offering – which provides income for the charity – spans training, digital, and creative services, as well as pioneering technology solutions that enable media and communication in the hardest to reach places.