RaiderCon is coming Saturday, March 24, from 10 a.m. -5 p.m. This is Rouse’s version of a Comic-Con and came about as a way to reach students who don’t get the spotlight through other events, such as sports or performances.

    “Our goal is to have a day to bring kids together through their passions and encourage self-  expression,” Video Game Club sponsor Laurel Taylor said. “A couple of years ago, one of the art teachers told me a student mentioned it would be fun to make cosplay costumes, and the seed was planted.”

    There will be different vendors and more guests than last year’s RaiderCon. The event will include hands-on activities, a book fair featuring graphic novels and comics sponsored by BookPeople.

    “I was able to get things started earlier this year, and it was easier knowing what to expect the second time around,” Taylor said. “I have also upped the marketing game, in hopes of drawing in a bigger crowd.”

    Students who attended RaiderCon last year are excited about the opportunity to dress up and see how this year’s version will be different. Junior Caitlin Ross and several of her friends are  planning to attend.

     “Last year there was a huge Smash Bros. tournament that I enjoyed playing in,” Ross said. “I screamed because it was a lot of fun. There were also different shops and vendors that gave it a Comic-Con atmosphere.”  

    Students who attend this year’s RaiderCon can participate again in a Smash Bros. tournament. Anyone who wants to play can register online beginning March 19. There is a form to complete, which can be located at goo.gl/TK6jmu.     

    RaiderCon is sponsored by community donors and the Rouse PTSA. Vendors have an option to donate items when they register for the event. Students who come to RaiderCon, will pay a $5 entry fee at the entrance. Proceeds will support Video Game Club, PTSA and a percentage will be donated to a charity called Extra Life, which gives support to local children’s hospitals through gaming.

    “We want people to come hang out at RaiderCon on March 24 and bring their friends,” Taylor said. “We will have something for everyone – the Smash Bros. Tourney, a cosplay contest, media fest, book fair, art show and hands-on demos. It will be a blast.”