While playing video games in school may be someone’s dream, it is also another person’s sport. Since the start of Mater Dei Esports in 2017, a diverse community has developed in which video games and productivity work together in making a successful sport; with students learning valuable skills that they can carry with them far beyond the digital arena. Esports gives students the chance for members to be a part of something exciting, to challenge themselves, and to be a part of a team where every click and keystroke counts.

Within this course, students practice skills and learn values beyond gaming. As described in the course description, this includes esports media, community and team building, leadership, sportsmanship, and digital ethics. As both a class and an extracurricular, students engage in scrimmages and experiment with unique game strategies, learn advanced game mechanics, as well as analyze various techniques. Students learn how to engage with other players, and utilize playing other characters other than their usual character. Led by Head Coach Mitchell Jimenez Hernandez, players prepare for annual gaming tournaments through their weekly practices. By integrating dedication into the games they play, individuals come together and cultivate a successful team.

Junior Collin Huang has been a part of Esports since his freshman year. He mainly competes in the combat video game, Valorant. Throughout his experience, Huang has found a sense of unity and deeply appreciates the opportunities that have helped him establish stable relationships. By discovering shared interests and a social connection with others, Huang has enjoyed his time on the team. 

“What made me want to stay is the community that is easily found,” Huang said. “In Esports, it’s very easy to create and strengthen friendships, [and] you are constantly going over strategies and ways to capitalize and make the most of what you have in a game.”

During their fall season, the team claimed victory at their Valorant tournament, winning first in one of the highest divisions. Huang discusses the specific approaches and processes the group takes leading up to each match, play-offs, and finals. He highlights the significance of attaining a concentrated attitude. 

“Once game day comes, we warm-up and run our play for about an hour in advance. This helps us engage and gain confidence so that we can get into a focused mindset,” Huang said. 

As the team primes itself for competitive battles, its structured approach to practice sets the stage for success. It’s within this environment that students can find a supportive space to cultivate their gaming skills and manage their academic commitments effectively.

Junior Jayden Asuncion has been in Esports since his freshman year, playing Super Smash Bros Ultimate. Throughout his high school career, Asuncion has enjoyed the flexible and relaxed practicing schedule that Esports offers. The flexible schedule gives students the opportunity to easily manage schoolwork and their sport. 

“Practices are very ‘lax for the most part, and tournaments as well, since there’s a lot of flexibility regarding scheduling our matches,” Asuncion said.

Esports presents Monarchs with an immersive and thrilling form of entertainment. Providing an outlet to showcase skills, student players are able to utilize good communication and strategic, critical thinking to achieve their goals. Huang recommends others join the team due to the exciting experiences Esports has to offer. He strongly believes the supportive environment will help new individuals grow and expand their potential outside of high school.

“I would recommend one join if you enjoy playing video games or if you want to try something new. The high school and collegiate esports scene is really great and inviting,” Huang said. “One of the greatest features is that it doesn’t really matter

what your skill level is because of the great coaches and members who will help you along your climb up the ranks.”

Esports has blossomed into a welcoming and friendly community. Because of her own positive experience, senior Jordan Saint John also urges new audiences to join and be open to exploring different paths. She hopes more students will challenge themselves and broaden their horizons.

“I would recommend others join because the teams are getting smaller [because] a lot of people have left. It’s not as scary as people might think it is. You won’t be judged for your skills because there’s always chances to get better,” Saint John said.

The ever-growing world of esports comes with trophies and championships. As the second semester season kicks off, Mater Dei’s Esports teams are already celebrating their successes. These wins highlight not only their gaming prowess but also the teamwork and determination that define their hard work.

“The season for [the] second semester has just started.  My two teams are off to a great start with us winning the first game of the season for Valorant and two first places for Apex Legends. And last season Valorant won [the] championship,” Saint John said.

Mater Dei Esports has become more than just a club—it’s a supportive community where students come together to learn, compete, and grow. Led by dedicated coaches, students explore various aspects of gaming, from strategy to sportsmanship. Through practices and tournaments, students can discover not only a passion for gaming, but also friendships and valuable skills. As the Esports teams continue their journey into the new season, they exemplify the spirit of teamwork, perseverance, and camaraderie that defines their success both on and off the digital battlefield.