The state-of-the-art learning space is a major investment courtesy of school donors, said English teacher Mike Neri, who is also the volunteer coach of the Esport school club.
The new club teaches participating students a wide variety of computer software coding, gaming and other digital skills, all useful to pursuing careers in fast-growing industries.
“It’s been really positive so far and everyone is really excited,” said Neri of the gaming-oriented club that competes with other southwest Ohio high schools – like Middletown and Princeton – which have similar Esports programs for teens.
“It’s definitely new and it’s definitely different and there has been a big learning curve but people are excited about it,” he said.
“Esports gives students an opportunity to compete in a collaborative and competitive environment of video gaming. It’s competitive video gaming, which has grown in popularity worldwide. And it’s really big on the college level and really big professionally.”
Neri consulted with Miami University’s Esport program – and other area colleges many of which offer scholarships in Esports – in creating the program. Students can also use their skills to compete for college scholarships in information technology and mathematics, he said.
“We compete in a league called Esports Ohio, which is statewide and there are hundreds of schools involved. It’s broken up into regions … but some of the schools we compete against are up in Cleveland and Akron and we compete virtually online from our new arena,” said Neri.
Jon Szary, principal Hamilton High School, said the addition of Esports option for students has been a game-changer.
“This is a great experience that can lead to many new opportunities for our students,” said Szary.
Senior Taylor Angel said she’s excited to learn and compete in the learning arena and described the club as enhancing skills in “problem solving and how to handle intense situations when there is a lot of pressure on you and to focus on one thing.”
“It’s awesome. And it’s a good outlet for me and for everyone else in this club.”
Club member and sophomore Bryson Becker said Big Blue Esports gives him both an opportunity to learn and socialize with team members.
“This is amazing. I would have never thought Hamilton High School would have an Esports team and I would be a part of it.”
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