Brantford played host to a unique and growing sporting tradition this past weekend, as CREWDAMA — Ontario’s only Kendama tournament — returned for its fourth and largest edition yet.
Held for the first time over two days, April 11 and 12, the event drew dozens of skilled players and enthusiasts from across North America to The Rope Factory Event Hall.
Founded in 2021 by Brantford’s own Cameron Williams, CREWDAMA has grown from a grassroots gathering into the province’s premier Kendama competition.
Kendama is a traditional Japanese skill toy composed of a ball (tama), string, and handle (ken), which players manipulate through intricate tricks requiring precision, timing, and balance.
“This community has changed my life,” said Williams, who also organizes the event.
“It’s not about money. I do this to give people the best time they can have and create a safe space where everyone belongs,” he added.
This year’s tournament marked a milestone with the introduction of the “Pro Open” category, drawing elite competitors from Alberta, British Columbia, Connecticut, Buffalo, and Nashville.
The top three finishers in the Pro Open were Gabe Mendoza (Alberta), Ezra Katzz, and Ethan Rutledge.
Mendoza, competing in his first CREWDAMA, said the event was “fun, well-organized, and filled with great people. I’ll definitely be back next year to defend the title.”
Approximately 30 competitors took part, with onlookers invited to spectate, learn about Kendama, and participate in mini-games and contests.
The event also featured music, food, local vendors, and sponsor activations, including long-time supporter Joshua Wall of The Crew Real Estate.
Beyond sport, CREWDAMA 2025 embraced a meaningful social cause. Partnering with Kendama Cares, a U.S.-based nonprofit founded by Arque Richards Pagh, the event raised supplies and funds for Nova Vita, a Brantford organization supporting individuals escaping domestic violence.
“We helped curate a donation list to meet Nova Vita’s needs — items like canned food, hygiene products, even feminine care essentials,” said Pagh.
“This was our first on-the-ground donation drive in Canada, and I was blown away by the generosity of this community,” she said.
Participants were encouraged to trade donated goods for raffle tickets, with many returning mid-event to donate more.
“Some even skipped lunch to shop for more items. That kind of commitment is rare,” Pagh added.
Looking ahead, Williams says next year’s fifth edition will be even bigger. “This niche community is growing, and Brantford has become a central hub for it. We’re just getting started.”
While the sound of clacking wood may have faded for now, CREWDAMA’s spirit — one of community, creativity, and connection — lives on.
