eSports Update

With 27 players in the program, eSports has taken on the electronic gaming world with the help of Sponsor John Newbold. The eSports team competes against other schools in Indiana in a variety of different categories.

"We compete in four titles this year - Fortnite, Tetris, Valorant and Super Smash Bros. Ultimate. We have practices and matches throughout the school year," said Newbold. "We currently have four students competing in Tetris, four students competing in Fortnite, one Valorant team and three Super Smash Bros."

eSports is not just a team, but an outlet for students to grow together. "eSports provides a space for students to have fun, learn teamwork, improve their skills and compete against other high school students," said Newbold.

When it comes to equipment, eSports supplies students with all different types of options. "We provide headsets and PCs for Valorant and Fortnite and Nintendo Switches for SSBU. Tetris players can use their Chromebooks or our PCs," said Newbold. "Some students bring their own equipment, like keyboards, mice and controllers."

As opposed to typical clubs, eSports is different because it is considered a sport. "eSports is a sport; the commitment level is a little more than for a club. We are also different from other activities in that we play video games," said Newbold.

The club has just recently taken off, but the future for this sport is bright, according to Newbold. "In five years, I would love for us to have a program where we have more coaches and more titles, so students have opportunities to play many titles," he said. "I would also like to have a dedicated space with the equipment we need. It would also be great to have partnerships with local college eSports teams to help our players improve and give opportunities for recruitment to college teams."

In terms of recruitment, eSports is looking for anyone that would like to join. "Our league has rules about when you can be on a roster and when you're eligible to compete, but we can usually work something out," said Newbold. "eSports is also free to join; we had a small cost for jerseys this year, but money isn't a barrier for participating at all in eSports at PHS."

eSports is unique because it allows students to participate in a sport that includes gaming. "Getting involved in something during high school is a really good way to make your high school years about more than just classroom learning," said Newbold. "Joining any club, sport or activity allows you to meet new people, bond with other students over your shared interests and just have fun. We have so many clubs here, and if you don't see a club you like and want to start one, find a staff person to sponsor you and make a club."

Story by Ruby Woodson