A new club has made its way to campus thanks to Zach Boch, a freshman exercise science and strength and conditioning major. Rock Paper Scissors League is different than most clubs on campus, considering there are events and tournaments against members.
Boch came up with the idea while at cross country camp in high school, and with the success, he was more than happy to bring it to Bluffton. The league began when Boch made an “RPS” medal to be used in competition, similar to a championship “belt.” As the league has evolved, Boch has started making actual championship belts for people to take home with them, all of which are decorated with the “RPS” name. A typical event consists of members walking out to their own song and battling to become the next champion.
“This league is obviously different than most clubs here at Bluffton, but it was created for community and to get people to bond more with each other while having a competitive experience,” said Boch.
A typical event or tournament consists of playing multiple types of Rock Paper Scissors including Rock Paper Scissors Split, two out of three, and three out of five matches. They hope to incorporate Rock Paper Scissors cards in the near future.
When it comes to preparation for events and tournaments, the classic “practice makes perfect” doesn’t always apply in a game like Rock Paper Scissors.
“You can take little things from what you see, but it’s mainly about the headspace,” said Alessa Deal, a sophomore art and psychology major. “Once you watch the people enough, just like any other sport, you find their weaknesses and the signs that they favor. You can use those things to your advantage and try to get an edge.”
Deal has attended multiple meetings and events and says the atmosphere of a typical meeting is very relaxed and carefree, trying to make it an enjoyable experience for everyone. Even the walk out songs for players are meant to be funny and lighthearted, considering one player walks out to “Beep Beep I’m a Sheep” by Todd Bryanton.
In the future Boch hopes to widen the group of members, expanding across the various teams and social groups across campus. The Rock Paper Scissors League is also not limited to only students. Boch would like for faculty and staff to get involved in tournaments as well, building upon the message of community.
Meetings are at 8 p.m. Sundays in Founders behind the gym. For more information, contact Boch.
