To quote the American singer/songwriter Bob Dylan, times they are a changin’. An example of this sentiment can be realized at Logan County High School with the addition of its latest sports offering-- eSports.
Recognized as a team sport by the Kentucky High School Athletic Association (KHSAA), eSports, which officially stands for electronic sports, should not be confused with your typical video games, as it is more than that. What sets it apart is the level of organized competitive gameplay between teams and its own strict set of rules and guidelines.
Competing in eSports is about teamwork, communication, strategic thinking and leadership.
The popularity of eSports is growing exponentially, packing arenas. This new pastime can become an avenue to riches and/or college scholarships—currently, over 200 colleges and universities offer almost $10 million in such scholarships. Other benefits of eSports include increased student participation and STEM engagement.
The KHSAA recognizes two online games League of Legends and Rocket League.
League of Legends (LOL) is a team of five players and one rotating substitute. Players work with their team to break the enemy Nexus before the enemy team breaks theirs. LOL is a complex game that involves both high-level strategy and fast-paced gameplay. Skilled players know how to beat the opponent in front of them, while keeping the macro-elements in mind to support their team to victory.
LCHS has two Rocket League (RL) teams. An RL team has three players and an alternating substitute. In RL, players work with their tame to advance the ball down the field, and score goals in their opponents’ net. RL is a technical game that involves both high-level dexterity and fast-paced gameplay. One of the most welcoming elements of the game is its accessibility and familiarity with traditional sport (soccer); the best players are highly advanced and have fine-tuned mechanics.
The eSports team season lasts eight weeks. A unique feature of eSports is that competitions are done virtually—requiring no travel.
LCHS team members are as follows: Connor Gorrell, Max Jones, James Wheeler, John Chandler, Nolan Hightower, Kieran Dowell, Katie Crump, Matthew Robertson, Alan Scallion, William Brown, Andrew Lyne, Killian Appling, Logan Harris, and Logan Pendleton. Team sponsor is Ms. Abby Powers.