Zetaboards Theme Zone -- Today marks the conclusion of the 2009 Battle of the Boards contest at the Zetaboards Theme Zone. Many of the finest boards from around the network competed in one of the most infamous contests to hit the network in ages. The victor for 2009 was none other then ever growing Nintendo forum - The Bell Tree. A win that comes as no surprise to any regulars on the network, as this forum is well known for their amazing growth and activity. The silver and bronze medals went to i-Lounge, and Juiced.
The prizes in the board brawl come at a very welcome time, as this is when the network starts to pick up for the 2009 year. The Bell Tree received a very generous prize consisting of ZB Premium (2 Months), $15.00 In ZBTZ Advertising, and placement in a "Winners Group" for three weeks. Other prizes that were handed out consisted of Advertising credits and placement in the Winners Group for various lengths of time.
I caught up with Stormcommander, The Bell Tree Root Admin, for a quick chat about the recent success and attention that his forum is receiving,
ZNB: Do you feel that your success at the BOTB is going to increase activity on your forum?
SC: I think the best thing about winning this is that we can call The Bell Tree an "award winning forum." But forums like TBT aren't exactly popular in ZB's general communities. Since the forum is focused on Animal Crossing and other Nintendo games, it might not apply to a broad-base of forum goers like a general discussion board would. I think it's great that these types of forums are winning these competitions though. Hogwarts New Zealand winning the ZBS Award was another good example. It shows you how diverse and creative this network is, contrary to what some people have been saying lately. Anyway, I hope the ZB gamers out there will take the chance to check us out and let us know how we can improve to be even better. Thanks to everyone who voted for us.
ZNB: How does it feel to have all of your hard work acknowledged by the network?
SC: It feels great that The Bell Tree has finally been noticed in the Zathyus Network this year. Not too long ago we were just another gaming forum that a few people knew about. I'm still surprised about the growth we've had at the forum, which has helped us win the award. I still remember trying to figure out the InvisionFree ACP back in 2004! And once again, I think it's great that some of the more unique forums are among ZetaBoard's most popular.
ZNB: Any big plans to celebrate the winning?
SC: Hm, I haven't thought about that much yet. I think I might put up a special banner and maybe we'll have a party in our IRC.
ZNB: Any words of wisdom to the ZNB Audience?
SC: Since there are a lot of forum administrators and moderators at the ZNB, I will say that with dedication and hard work you can create an active forum. The forums that have the most potential focus on a specific topic. Then you can promote it to the people who share the interest in that topic, as oppose to getting people from the Zathyus Network to follow you. The network still has a lot of potential to grow. The internet is big. And remember why we're all here: to relax and have some fun.
Thanks again to everyone who voted for us.
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As the 2009 Battle wraps up and the forum is tucked away, we wish the best to all of those up and coming forums in the 2010 Battle. Many thanks to Stormcommander and The Bell Tree for providing an interview on such short notice.
