Are you interested in being part of a team but you’re more into virtual games than physical sports? If so, you’re not alone. Many schools have started Esports teams and clubs, which are a unique type of sport.

Del Val has also expressed interest in starting an Esports team, and Nintendo Switches are available in the Commons for students to use for their clubs, their lunch or their study halls. If you are interested in joining the team, look out for future updates from Del Val.

So, what are Esports?

Esports operate like any other sport; they compete against each other in competitions and tournaments. However, instead of playing the sport physically, they play video games.

Del Val’s director of curriculum Tara Civitillo thinks Esports create a great atmosphere for social-emotional learning.

“It runs just like other sports—there’s citizenship, sportsmanship and all of those aspects,” Civitillo said.

There are three seasons throughout the year: fall, winter and summer. During each season, different games are available to play, such as Mario Kart, Splatoon, Rocket League and more.

“There can be up to three or four different types of games running [each season],” Civitillo said.

Competitions are mostly online; although, once teams advance, they can eventually compete in in-person games. Teams compete using either Nintendo Switches or computers. It is cooperative, and teamwork is crucial in the sport.

“You actually coach one another through it and get better in your gameplay through that,” Civitillo said.

Esports is a fast-growing sport, and the amount of viewers and players has been increasing since the COVID-19 pandemic.

Some colleges and universities also offer Esports scholarships.

Look for updates from Del Val about Esports. Until then, try out the Nintendo Switches in the Commons and spread the word to your friends.