History of O.U.C.H.

O.U.C.H. aka the Ontario Universities Competition for Hiphop was founded in 2003 by a student from The University of Waterloo, in Waterloo, Ontario. In its first couple of years, many different teams came from a variety of universities across Ontario.

In 2006, the rules changed however, and since then each school has been allowed ONE team; that is, although some schools have various hiphop groups throughout their campus, they must figure out a way to converge and form a single team to represent their school.

O.U.C.H. has grown over the past seven years and will continue to do so - the show keeps getting better every year! To put things into perspective; the first time McMaster held the competition in 04’ it was in a small campus pub, with approximately 200-300 audience members. Last year, MAC hosted again and came very close to FILLING the Hamilton Place Theatre with nearly 1700 guests!

How the Competition Works

• Each team has a maximum of 4 minutes to perform their routine. It may include any style of dancing and music (though HIPHOP is strongly recommended)
• A panel of Judges (Hiphop/Dance professionals) scores each routine out of 100. Scoring is based on Choreography, Stage Presence, Creativity, Synchronicity, and a variety of other factors. The team with the most points is the winner!
• First Place winners are awarded the prestigious O.U.C.H. Trophy, as well as a cash prize (varies year to year, usually $750-$1000), as well as the priviledge of hosting the next O.U.C.H.!
• 2nd and 3rd place are also awarded cash prizes. NEW to 09’ - special awards - Judges’ Choice - Award Names TBA!

We look forward to everyone coming out and having a great time. Remember, November 21st 2009!! Save that Date!!