PurplePanthers eSports Team

What is eSports?

eSports is a form of organized competition using video games, and the global eSports market has grown to over $400 million a year in revenue.

Twenty-seven million people watched the League of Legends Championship in 2017 — more than Game 7 of the World Series (23.5 million) and the final game of the NBA Finals (18 million). - EdSurge

Teams have a coach, uniforms, and practice and compete in regional and national tournaments. Participation in eSports helps students develop skills including teamwork, coordination, communication, problem solving, and strategic planning.  Like other teams in our district, participants in Waterville’s PurplePanthers eSports team will be held accountable for being student-athletes with a primary focus on their academic success.  Some colleges even grant scholarships to students who qualify to play eSports for the school, and as of 2018 the The National Association of College Esports (NACE) lists over 100 colleges and universities with eSports programs.

Why eSports in High School?

Extracurricular activities provide many benefits to our students and we are always seeking more ways to help them form stronger connections to our school. Like other sports and activities, eSports will provide opportunities for students to learn teamwork, overcome challenges, and work with a coach to reach their goals. Holding eSports participants to the same expectations as other teams will provide additional incentives for students to stay on track academically, physically, and in their behaviors inside and outside of school. Additionally, we want to provide an opportunity for students to shine as they represent Waterville in competition.

How can I join?

Participation in eSports is a privilege. With this privilege comes an additional set of responsibilities for academics and conduct for the student athlete. 

eSports Season Start Checklist

• Participants must be 13 years of age or older.

• Review Waterville High School Athletic Handbook: http://wshs.aos92.org/athletics

  • Athletic Acknowledgement Agreement Form

  • Emergency and health form

  • Student Alternate Travel Waiver Form

• Join the Waterville High School eSports Google Classroom

• Create an account on PlayVS.com

There are a variety of opportunities to participate including roles such as event manager, streaming video technician, web and social media coordinator, and referee.

For additional information, contact Will Backman at esports@watervillek12.org. 

Which video games are used?

All games utilized in our schools must have a Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) rating for ages Teen or lower.  No games with a ESRB rating of Mature or Adults Only will be allowed.

Regional and National leagues choose the specific games for tournaments.  The list of games can be found on the website for each tournament.