Esports Shines
Some will roll their eyes at the notion that competing in video games is a sport, considering that athleticism may not be required. But the Orange County Public Schools (OCPS) district is sold on the value of its Esports programs.
Steve McHale, who spent 6 ½ years as Dr. Phillips’ athletic director, now works at OCPS headquarters and is overseeing the rapid growth of Esports.
“The hope is those experiences dove-tail with career paths in computer science, technology and auxiliary fields that include broadcasting, marketing, digital design, multimedia production, hospitality, coaching, and Esports management,” McHale stated in an email describing the program.
Orange County’s schools are ahead of the game. In a recent PlayVS Spring High School state championship event, Windermere High’s nationally ranked team won the Rocket League competition and Dr. Phillips was the best in Mario Kart play.
Horizon High hosted a Super Smash Brothers invitational for OCPS teams.
OCPS launched Esports in the spring of 2022 with 11 schools represented at Full Sail University. It now has teams from all 22 Orange County schools with competition in these video games: Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, Splatoon, Super Smash Bros, Madden NFL, League of Legends, Hearthstone and NBA 2K.
“Year 1 teams are finding ways to bring a diverse group of students under a big tent,” said McHale, who retired as a Marine before going into the education field. “Esports, unlike other sports, has a way of attracting a variety of competitors. It allows students of any gender to compete together. It crosses grade levels, race and/or language.”
McHale wrote that more than $16 million has been awarded for Esport scholarships.
Varsity content editor Buddy Collings can be contacted by email at bcollings@orlandosentinel.com.