In recent times, Esports has been witnessing a surge in popularity in educational institutions, with a part of this expansion happening over this weekend at UNCW.
A partnership between UNC Greensboro’s Scholastic Esports Alliance, North Carolina Varsity Esports, and the STEM League (VESL) saw them host a statewide Esports competition in Greensboro, Charlotte, and Wilmington this past weekend. The regional championship witnessed the participation of around 230 high school students across North Carolina, forming 81 teams from 59 different high schools. The gamers contested in several games such as Valorant, Overwatch 2, Rocket League, and Super Smash Brothers. The growth of Esports is pleasing, says Hoggard’s Kevin Bautista.
“Esports, once a niche hobby among a small group of gaming enthusiasts has now become a professional playing field. What’s more impressive is that it’s opening up larger avenues and becoming easier for people to get involved,” stated Bautista.
Later this spring, the highest-ranking four teams in each game from this event will be invited to Greensboro to vie for the statewide championship.