In the beginning, competition was the driving force that created the Kansas City Frogman Club. Back in the early 50's a group of local Kansas City divers enjoyed the sport of spear-fishing so much that they decided to hold competition dives. Eventually more and more clubs around the state formed and began competing against one another. These clubs brought about the birth of the Midwest Diving Council in 1959, whose function was to standardize competition rules and sanction competition events among the competing clubs. More competitive events were eventually included in each weekend event, including a triathlon and an underwater photography competition.  These sporting event became popular and began to spread nationwide.  As a result the Underwater Society of America was created to allow competition to be waged on a national level.  The first national spearfishing competition was the New Orleans - Grand Island Scuba Divers International Tournament.  It was held in 1959 and became the birth place of the famous NOGI award.  The Academy of Underwater Arts and Sciences still presents the NOGI each year and it's the most prestigious award within the diving community throughout the world.  Over the years more events were introduced and old ones were redefined.  Underwater hockey came on the scene and has become a popular way to stay in shape during the winter months.  The Triathlon event was renamed Scuba Skills.  This event is used to test basic underwater skills of even the best scuba divers.  Underwater photography is also popular and has brought out the artistic talent in more than one underwater enthusiast.  The competition now includes the sport of fin swimming as well as underwater rugby.