URec begins competition of unathletic events including rock, paper, scissors

Combatants risked it all for glory in a contest of the world’s most reliable form of conflict resolution: rock, paper, scissors.

Central Michigan University Intramurals hosted the third annual Rock, Paper, Scissors Tournament, also known as “The Unathletic Olympics,” Friday at the Student Activity Center. The competition involved several other activities, including an indoor straw javelin throw, a coin toss and a paper airplane throw.

“I wanted to take a bunch of goofy events and make a contest out of them,” said Gary Baker, assistant director of intramural sports for University Recreation.

About 25 students participated in the rapid and decisive rounds of rock, paper, scissors.

Cass City senior Jeff Stoutenburg came out the winner.

“My strategy was to throw a lot of rock, all the while staring my opponent down, to get into my opponent’s head,” Stoutenburg said.

It was his first time competing in the annual contest and, unfortunately his last, as he graduates after this semester.

“If I could compete next year I would, to defend my title,” he said.

All one-on-one competitions were best of three, except championship rounds of best of five. But not all of the events ran as planned.

Cadillac senior Jacque Emington competes in the "Javelin" straw throw during the Unathletic Olympics Friday in NIRSA room, located in the SAC. (Matthew Stephens/Senior Photographer)

The paper airplane-flying contest quickly turned into a paper ball toss after failed flying attempts.

Traverse City sophomore Spenser Emerson referees for many intramural sports but, this time, he was part of the competition.

“It’s a good way to let loose with other staff members,” Emerson said. “It’s a good time.”

A break from athletics

Baker said he got the idea of the competition from a friend who suggested it to him.

“I liked the thought of it,” Baker said. “I also remembered hearing on ESPN about a rock, paper, scissors championship, so I figured it would be something fun to try here at Central.”

He said the event was started as a way to break away from traditional athletic competitions.

Baker has participated for three years and still has yet to discover the key to winning.

“Any strategy I have isn’t really working,” Baker said. “Just have fun and enjoy it.”