At EF Academy, the e-Sports club has become more than just a space for competitive gaming. It is a growing community where students develop teamwork and problem-solving skills. As interest in e-Sports continues to rise, the club has established itself as a meaningful extracurricular that reflects modern student culture.
According to the club supervisor, Renee Neal-De-Stanton, participation in e-Sports helps students build important skills. “Students develop collaboration, teamwork, discipline, communication, focus, and critical thinking skills,” he explained, emphasizing that these abilities extend into both academics and everyday life. Through structured gameplay and shared goals, students learn how to work together, adapt quickly, and stay focused under pressure.
One of the most rewarding aspects of the club, Neal-De-Stanton said, is the sense of connection it creates among students. “Seeing students form new groups and friendships has been the most rewarding part,” he said. In a diverse and global school environment, e-Sports serves as a bridge that brings students together through shared interests.
Students involved in the club share this experience. Mark Jayaraman, a member of the e-Sports club, joined because “it seemed like the most fun.” Being part of the club has helped him connect with others who share the same passion for gaming. His favorite moment so far was getting an ace during a match, a highlight that reflects the competitive and exciting nature of e-Sports. For those who view e-Sports as “just gaming,” Jayaraman emphasized that it requires “passion and focus.”
Another member, Vidal Muhech Ibane, joined the e-Sports club this year after becoming interested in video games and the relaxed yet engaging atmosphere of the club. He was surprised that EF Academy even offered e-Sports, that “most high schools don’t have e-Sports clubs.” He also highlighted the strong sense of community within the club, explaining that “it connects students who share similar interests and allows them to learn new games together.”
As the club continues to grow, there is increasing interest in expanding its space and resources. The e-Sports club hopes to have a larger dedicated room equipped with approximately 20 or more desktop computers to support rising student participation.
In conclusion, the e-Sports club at EF Academy is far more than a gaming club. e-Sports has become one of the most talked-about clubs at EF Academy. It provides students with a space for competition, collaboration, and community while fostering valuable skills that extend beyond the screen. EF Academy e-Sports stands as a strong example of how play can be purposeful.
