In the heart of Ahwatukee, Nick Witherill’s inventive spirit has given birth to a phenomenon that’s compelling people to divert their gaze from digital screens to engage in a seemingly modest pastime—a board game. This invention, known as the Biñho Board, is not just defying the rampant digital gaming wave but has also fashioned a vibrant community around it. With clubs forming nationwide, the game has attracted a broad audience, including notable professional athletes, all united by their love for Witherill’s simplistic yet profoundly engaging creation.
The Biñho Board, with its straightforward components, draws a stark contrast to the intricate designs seen in today’s popular video games. Comprising a durable piece of plywood encased in a turf-like material and framed by a wraparound wall mimicking a soccer stadium, the game brings the essence of soccer to your tabletop. Two players or teams face off with the simple objective of flicking a ball past strategically placed pegs and into a net, reminiscent of scoring a goal in soccer. Despite its apparent simplicity, mastering the game requires finesse and precision, offering a refreshing and competitive twist to traditional board games.
Nick Witherill’s journey to the creation of Biñho Board was anything but straightforward. Originally envisaging a career in basketball, Witherill’s path took several turns, including stints at various jobs that left him seeking more fulfilling work. His passion for soccer, kindled by playing a video game version sanctioned by FIFA, led him to contemplate adapting soccer into a physical board game. Dissatisfied with his early career pursuits and driven by a creative spark, Witherill embarked on a quest to bring this unique concept to life.
The evolution of Biñho Board from concept to reality is a testament to Witherill’s resilience and innovation. Starting with rudimentary materials like roofing nails and rubber bands, he crafted the initial versions of the game, christening it “Biñho Board” in a nod to soccer legend Ronaldinho Gaúcho and reflecting the game’s soccer inspiration. As word of mouth and social media buzz grew, so did demand for Witherill’s creation, pushing him towards professionalizing his passion project into a viable product. This shift from hobbyist to entrepreneur marked the true beginning of Biñho Board’s journey to success.
Transitioning from a creative idea to a manufactured product presented its own set of challenges for Witherill. Striving for perfection in the build and aesthetics of Biñho Board meant navigating the complexities of manufacturing a new product. His persistence led him through various locales in Phoenix in search of the perfect components, culminating in the establishment of a sophisticated network of suppliers with the aid of a broker in China. This relentless pursuit of quality not only exemplified Witherill’s dedication to his craft but also set the stage for the game’s burgeoning success.
Interestingly, the onset of the pandemic played a pivotal role in catapulting Biñho Board to new heights. As people searched for entertainment options that allowed for social interaction without the confines of a screen, sales of Biñho Board surged. This spike in interest wasn’t solely due to the game’s intrinsic fun and competitive nature but also Witherill’s commitment to producing a visually appealing and high-quality product. The game’s design, conducive to both play and display, accentuated its appeal, making it a versatile addition to any social gathering or living space.
Looking ahead, Witherill’s vision for Biñho Board extends beyond the living rooms and backyards of its current fan base. With plans to expand the community through tournaments and clubs, and ambitions for retail and international expansion, Biñho Board’s horizon is broadening. The essence of Witherill’s future strategy lies in nurturing the game’s community spirit and ensuring the product remains accessible yet retains its high-quality and aesthetic appeal. This community-focused approach bodes well not just for Biñho Board’s proliferation but also for fostering a sense of belonging among its players.
Retail expansion, particularly into sporting goods stores, marks the next chapter in Biñho Board’s story. Witherill’s focus on maintaining the game’s quality and detail underscores his dedication to providing an exceptional product. As Biñho Board steps into more homes and public spaces, its unique blend of competitive fun and aesthetic appeal is set to captivate a wider audience, while also standing as a testament to Witherill’s journey from concept to kickoff. For more information and to join the Biñho Board community, visit binhoboard.com.
