Getting a new club off the ground can be difficult, but the Video Game Club makes it look easy. Often times new clubs don’t have the means to put on events so close to their founding. However, in only five short months the club has managed to put on their first tournament.

During the tournament held after school Friday, Dec. 7, the club had two Nintendo systems surrounded by students aching to play Super Smash Bros. Having more than 30 students purchasing not only their entry in the competition, but a cold drink and a slice of pizza as well, was beneficial for the club’s wallet.

From the event the club made around 50 dollars in profit allowing them to plan for future events. During Friday’s tournament each student who purchased a ticket was guaranteed two rounds of competition. As the number of players dwindled and the competition became harder, one final round determined the winner. Joshua Boado emerged champion in his final round, hitting his opponent with a combo move. Not only did Boado win the competition, he also won a 30 dollar gift card to GameStop.

Club advisor Mary Stoner created the club for the students who think of themselves as gamers. In addition to her love of video games and gamers she wanted to create a club for students who feel they don’t have a place on campus. “In high school I had a group of friends who were like me. We weren’t the cool kids, but we understood one another and it helped me step out of my circle.”

The club also has a secondary advisor, Brandon Enos, who shares this view. He feels the most rewarding aspect of starting this club is seeing the enthusiasm on students’ faces. Enos also looks forward to future tournaments and having fun with students.

Considering how well the first tournament went, club president Harvey Cummings aspires to put on tournaments on a regular basis. Profit made from the tournaments will go toward purchasing a new console for the club to use during meetings and other tournaments. This will ensure that in the future the club will have their own system rather than relying on donations from students or the school.

The leaders of the Video Game Club want students to feel a sense of comradery and have fun while they bond over a common interest.

“It was fun because I don’t do a lot of school things,” Joshua Cortes, a junior, said. “People there made me feel welcome.”