Students at Maud High School say that being a part of the school’s electronic sports team has taught them more than just how to play video games. Senior Nick Allen, eleventh graders Gabriel Addington, Stephen Hall, Justice Reid, Tristan Beckett and Aiden Forthergill along with tenth grader Austin Kennedy make up the competition Esports team at MHS. The team says that they have learned focus, patience, teamwork and communication and social skills just by playing interactive games. “It helps us with social skills and ability to think on the spot,” Tristan said. “It got rid of my fear of big crowds. I’m more open now. I don’t have a social problem any more.” Austin agreed. “I feel like gaming is a way to help get rid of that fear. It’s not just playing games … they expand to social forms and can help break down those barriers,” Austin added. Tristan said that by conversing with any number of people across the globe, he has learned to be more comfortable speaking in public which has translated to his work as an anchor on Cardinal TV. Stephen adds that it has helped with hand-eye coordination. As a member of the welding team, Stephen is second in the state for welding at the high school level.
“The skills on the sticks, translate over to the skills. I know it’s different muscles, but you have to be precise and fine in both areas,” said Braden Brown, MHS Esports coach. “You’ve got to have a steady hand and focus as well.”
Brown said his primary reason for bringing Esports to the school was to give the students who didn’t feel at home competing in athletics an opportunity to shine and be celebrated.
