Another, “I wish they’d had that when I was an SHS/ college student,” moment!
It’s inevitable—several times every day I catch myself thinking about all the unique and evolving learning opportunities. Frequently, Mr. Bell, Dr. Bryson and I discuss the many opportunities that we have to expand our already rigorous academic offering for Springfield High School students. One such area I would like to make sure you are aware of is our eSports program.
At risk of some readers misunderstanding, eSports (also known as electronic sports) is a form of competition using video games. This often takes the form of organized, multiplayer video game competitions, particularly between professional players, individually or as teams. Although organized competitions have long been a part of video game culture, these were largely between amateurs until the late 2000s, when participation by professional gamers and spectatorship in these events through live streaming saw a large surge in popularity.
Students interested in the management side may earn a bachelor’s degree in eSports management or major in business with a minor or certificate in eSports management. Some schools allow students to take on other majors and add a certificate or a minor in eSports. eSports Akron came on November 9, after school, to talk with our eSports team. They are looking at what our students can do to get to the college level and beyond. Akron has in their program more than 60 students at the moment, with another 2,500 at the club level.
Although it may appear to non-eSports aficionados that students are playing, this is about more than gaming. It takes a lot of skill to succeed in eSports, including those gained at SHS, especially in math and tech classes—not to mention the use of critical thinking and dexterity. I would be remiss if I didn’t mention that although several of our teachers have impressive skills, SHS art teacher Sean Able and our district’s director of technology Cory Cantu have taken the lead in coaching our teams. Currently, our Valorant
Currently, our Valorant varsity team is second in the division (just behind Whitmer High School). We have a strong five-player group with two alternatives. Our second varsity team, Super Smash Bros’ had their first win last week against Lima Bath. eSports Ohio (esportsohio .org/home) is made up of nearly 300 high school teams, and we have 14 colleges looking at our teams.
In the spring season, we are looking at expanding to have full rosters (varsity/ junior varsity and club) in several eSports and adding more teams. The state league continues to grow each season with fresh game types, to keep current along with expanding to build a middle school program as well.
