Esports (electronic gaming) has recently taken more popularity in schools, specifically Selma High. Esports is organized, competitive video gaming, with structured tournaments and rules, which differs from casual gaming.
From the week of March 16th-20th, Selma High held its second annual Esport tournament. The tournament was a huge success and brought in many students who shared a love for gaming in friendly competition.
The event was run by the After School Program coordinator, Francisco Ramirez, and the event was held during lunch.
The tournament concluded with three winners, with Mason Pico taking first place, Sophie Mendoza taking second place, and James Kent taking third place.
“It was amazing running the event,” Ramirez said. In comparison to last year’s first Esports Tournament, this year’s tournament received way more traction and felt more “polished.”
“We felt like things took off. We felt like we prepared very well for it, and the turn-out was amazing.”
The tournament operated on a bracket. Students played circuit rounds Monday through Wednesday, tallying scores to place them with opponents on a bracket. To qualify for the knockout rounds on Thursday and Friday, students had to play three rounds of Super Smash Bros. The outcomes of each round were tallied and used to determine what their gaming level was. They were then matched with other students with similar levels in the bracket.
The environment was supportive, and students were encouraging even when competing against each other.
The event had students in attendance every day and even hosted a number of more than 50 students participating in one day. The number of students in attendance reflected the growing popularity of e-sports, but also the importance of encouraging students to pursue avenues of their own interests.
The event was more than just students getting to play Super Smash Bros during lunch, it was an outlet for students to connect and an opportunity for those who may not play traditional sports, or in other cases for those who are more introverted.
“I think it gave them a voice,” Ramirez expressed. “I think it gave them a place to represent themselves, represent their interests, and I guess more importantly connect with other like-minded individuals.”
The event gave students an opportunity to get away from the worries of school, family, or other external factors, and brought a sense of togetherness during the school day.
The event ended in high spirits and companionship, and according to Ramirez, “it definitely won’t be the last.”
