Trinitonian 19

KIDS FEATURE
HIGH SCHOOL ESPORTS LEAGUE
Traditional sports heroes like Lionel Messi
and Lewis Hamilton are making a way in
the popularity stakes for their online gamer
counterparts, like Lee “Faker” Sang-Hyeok.
Competitive video games, called Esports, are
taking the world by storm, with some international
events drawing over a million viewers at one time.
The High School Esports League also provides
a space for competitive school Esports for highschoolers
in South Africa.
“The HSEL provides schools with ready-made
fixtures against other schools from across the
country, to make Esports as accessible as
possible for schools, with the understanding
that this is a volunteer organisation run by the
teachers,” says Tyrone Green, chairman of the
HSEL. “We try to focus on team games rather
than individual titles to combat the stigma that
gaming or Esports is some activity that only
loners take part in. The sense of camaraderie, not
just with your teammates but with other schools,
really makes Esports an incredible addition
to any student’s school life. The HSEL and its
partnership with Telkom VS Gaming also allow
more competitive players to make their mark on
the Esports scene.”
The League is for schools, but if you’re looking to
join as an individual, you would need a teacher
or staff member who can act as an intermediary
(with the school’s permission) to schedule
matches and sort out other details. “We welcome
all students and schools!” says Tyrone, adding that
inclusivity is a driving factor of the League. “Most
of the games titles played do not require high-end
computers or consoles (making it affordable), and
girls and boys are on an equal footing.”
WHAT IT TEACHES
• Communication
• Teamwork
• Commitment
• Problem-solving
• Confidence
AGE GROUP
From 13 years, but there is room for younger
participants. Tyrone explains: “While we style
ourselves the High School Esports League, junior
schools can join as long as their students are
taking part in age-appropriate titles. CS:GO, for
instance, is rated 16, while League of Legends
has an age restriction of 13. However, games like
Rocket League is for everyone, which is great.”
GET STARTED!
Reach out to Tyrone Green by email
(greet01@wbhs.co.za) for more information
about the upcoming season and all other
related information.
The Trinitonian | 45