Parma Heights, Ohio-Teacher of Theology / Technology, PJ Farrell is known as an avid gamer in the Hall of Holy High School, and you can imagine that a common passion for video games with students leads to national recognition. I didn’t.
“When I started the Esports program more than two years ago, my senior group told me that if I joined the league, I would win everything,” said Farrell (Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six Siege). Parma Heights School esports moderator / coach.
“I laughed at them a bit, but then we signed up and they made it to the semifinals in their first year. Then last year, a really good group that won three national championships came back. I’ve been. This year, they recently won a quarter. That is, this is last year’s four national championships. “
As part of Generation EsportHigh School Esports League, North America’s largest and longest-running competitive game organization for students, has recently won first place in the major playoffs in the fall with Holy Name High School’s Rainbow Six Esports team playing on PlayStation 4. Did.
Members of the Rainbow Six team, including senior Ricky Smith and Taudi Heed Kelly, junior CJ Forster and Antonio Deleva, and freshmen Josh Parisi and Brian Moreno, each have a $ 1,000 college scholarship in the fall championship. Won.
In the course of four club sports championships, Farrell said the members brought back nearly $ 20,000 in scholarships.
Currently, Holy Name’s Esports team has 45 members and is divided into different groups depending on the game. For example, Rainbow Six is played by five players. However, the team was replaced by a sixth person to further strengthen.
“Many people confuse esports with those who play video games,” said Farrell, a serious player in World of Warcraft and Overwatch. “Esports is really high communication. It’s a lot of teamwork.
“The kids scouted the enemy by watching a video online about how they played. Then they plan a strategy on how to defeat them. I like the whole program. There are children who have nothing to do with school. “
Children who are now home and playing video games are playing “Super Smash Bros.”, “Overwatch” and “Rocket League” at Gamelabo after school with their jerseys.
“Esports has given me the opportunity to get absorbed in what I really want to do,” said Taudiheed Kelly. “I am really grateful for this opportunity.”
CJ Forster added: “I’m proud to have gone this year. Last year, two seniors left, but it left some pretty big holes that needed to be filled. Freshmen, especially to win this year’s title. After with their help, I have shown many promises. “
What Farrell learned last year is that esports is pandemic-resistant. Children will not miss the beat, even if they are forced to study away from home.
“That was really the most consistent thing happening in our school,” Farrell said. “With esports, kids don’t have to worry about joining games, talking to friends, or canceling games or practice.
“It’s always there. I think a little consistency gives them a little stress relief.”
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