"I just wanted everyone to have a good time," mused Stutzel. Running nearly 1,000 tournament divisions at Playa Del Rey alone, Stutzel provided CBVA players a seamless operation and an exceptional experience. Working tirelessly behind the scenes, Stutzel’s meticulous preparation was as legendary as his first Under-18 division tournament partner, Karch Kiraly.

During Stutzel's tenure as CBVA president, he moved the CBVA Hall of Fame toward fruition and oversaw the first production of the Jumper newsletter. President Stutzel also developed a relationship with the AVP, negotiating main draw seeds for CBVA Festival champions, and secured sponsors to help fund the first CBVA prize money paid to players.

Stutzel ran 35 tournament festivals across the sands of California, from Santa Barbara to Huntington Beach. He also assisted as the director of the Manhattan Beach 6-Man tournament for the last 30 years. Known for his soothing demeanor, "Even Keel Phil" was knowledgeable, funny and kind, but firm when needed. Players knew inevitable tournament disputes were nearing Stutzel's final judgment when he began with, “Bro, bro, bro.”

While Stutzel's well-run tournaments would meet the approval of his mentors, Gene Popko, Charlie Saikley and George Stepanof -- the Mount Rushmore of tournament directors -- Phil knew fun was just as important for tournament success. Maybe his high-speed past, racing stock cars at Ascot Speedway, taught him how to fuel a good time at a tournament, including offering beer from a local tavern as prizes. The man who has played in 45 consecutive Gillis tournaments and was the catalyst for hundreds of post-tournament festivities. And everyone had a good time.