Playing video games is more than a hobby here in Gwinnett County Public Schools (GCPS). The Esports arena has become a way for student-athletes to not only connect in person but also connect virtually through some of their favorite video games. In 2020, GCPS officially added Esports to the lineup of athletic programs offered at 18 of our high schools. It is a unique sport that includes students with different skill sets or abilities.

     “Esports include a wide variety of students who are interested in the different aspects of the gaming industry. It is also a co-ed  sport which provides more opportunities for our students to become engaged with their peers, school, and community,” says Director of Athletics Jason Holcombe.

     Currently, 18 of our high schools are participating in the Esports program. Since the addition of eSports in 2020, GCPS has had nine different state champions won by six different schools. Most recently, Brookwood High School won a state championship for Rocket League in Spring 2024.

     Sean, a member of the Brookwood High Esports team, says Esports really is a team effort and requires quick thinking. “One of the ways I prepare myself for a big match is reviewing over footage from past games, but for the entire team,” he says. “Despite only one of us playing at a given time we all have things we can learn from each other and the mistakes that one of us makes we are all more likely to make.”

     Additionally, Peachtree Ridge and Seckinger High Schools won state championships in Fall 2023 for League of Legends (Peachtree Ridge) and Smash Brothers (Seckinger).

     Esports provides students with the important qualities of being a part of a team, like communication and strategic planning, but its online format provides students the chance to connect with challengers all over the world.

     “With Esports being completely electronic and played in an online arena, students who typically might not be interested in traditional sports can now take advantage of being a part of a team,” Holcombe explains. “Esports is one of the fastest growing sports in the world and will even be an Olympic sport at the next summer games. Esports represents a multi-billion-dollar industry that can be played at the high school, college, and even professional levels. It is an excellent connection to the Career Technical and Agricultural Education (CTAE) curriculum with cross-over into areas such as computer science, game design, cybersecurity, and many other things.”

     Esports’ future is bright in GCPS with Esport specific computers being provided to each and every Georgia High School Association (GHSA) High School in the district. Are you interested in taking your gaming skills to the next level as an Esports student-athlete? Check your school’s website to find out what Esports opportunities are in your learning community.