Terts Verhaak, ‘20, recognized the effect that games — video, board and card — had on students, and believed it could be the source to promoting creative thinking amongst players. Coupled with his passion to play, Verhaak cited this observation as his reason for introducing Game club to WHHS.

“I always knew that games — board games or video games — as a medium are sort of underappreciated,” Verhaak said. With the creation of Game club during the 2015-2016 school year, students are now able to explore fantasy worlds and gain unparalleled knowledge through playing. For example, in games such as Dungeons & Dragons, the player develops storytelling skills and learns how to plan ahead without any real life consequences.

As founder, Verhaak organizes the events — choosing where, when and for how long they will meet each time. He leaves it up to the members to decide which games are played each meeting. They play a wide variety of games, ranging from Dungeons & Dragons to Apples to Apples. Sometimes, the club divides into smaller groups, each playing different games, in order to build various gaming strategies.

“I want to do competitions or little tournaments where people who want to learn how to play can come, or if they want to learn a new game,” Verhaak said, when asked about future plans for the club.

Game club meetings take place from 2:30-3:30 every Thursday, and on certain Saturdays, in room 1300. All ages are encouraged and welcome to come. There is a Game club Schoology group that anyone can join; The code is TNWST-X8QFW.