Esports is skyrocketing in popularity, gaining global recognition and even earning a spot in its own Olympics! Keeping up with the times, Upper Perk High School is going into a new generation of sports.
Until recently, the only type of Esports done at Upper Perk was in the gaming club. Changes have been made this year, with a brand new Esports room! Since its rise, scholarships have opened up for players nationwide. Schools have gradually added these rooms, so much so that competitions have started between districts like any other sport. Several people have asked why individuals watch esports. We asked the same question to the Esports and Gaming club advisor, Mr. Gregory, who responded, “We want to see people do something they are awesome at, whether it is throwing a football or doing a cool flip-reset in Rocket League.”
The new Esport room has new gaming computers set up with LEDs and gaming chairs. This allows students to start gaming on more professional equipment than they might have at home.
One might ask; what’s the difference between the gaming club and Esports team? According to Mr. Gregory, “In Esports we are more competitive, but in the Gaming club, it is more chill. We relax and play Mario Kart and maybe some Minecraft.” Both are meant for devoted gamers to get together to show their skills, either on a Peer-To-Peer level or a more professional level.
The new rise in Esports holds a lot of promise in the future, both for Upper Perk and for the world. It is taking gaming to the next level, turning it into a competitive sport just like football or volleyball. With the rise of platforms like Twitch and YouTube, many have turned gaming into a career entertaining people worldwide.
Those interested in joining should email Mr. Gregory at [email protected]!
