As the final bell rings at Key Middle School on Thursdays, a group of students gathers for a unique extracurricular activity. These students are part of the school’s new eSports team, competing against other middle schools across the country in video games like Rocket League and Super Smash Bros. Ultimate.
This initiative marks the first time Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) has offered eSports at the middle school level, with Key Middle School, Robinson Secondary, and Hughes Middle School fielding teams for this inaugural season. Justin Walker, an eighth-grade physical science teacher and advisor for Key’s eSports team, believes that “kids need a healthy, competitive outlet.”
The program began in early March when enough interest was generated to form two teams of six students each. The Rocket League team currently holds a 5-3 record while the Super Smash Bros. Ultimate team stands at 1-6.
Eighth grader Arman Bhuiyan joined the Rocket League team partly due to encouragement from his parents who wanted him to be more involved in school activities. He practices both during Thursday sessions and over weekends to hone his skills.
Jhoan Gonzalez, another eighth-grade member of the Rocket League team, notes similarities between their game and actual soccer: “We have to learn each other’s abilities, work as a team so we can win.” Seventh grader Caiden Brown appreciates how joining the eSports team allowed him to meet new friends while balancing his academic responsibilities.
The FCPS 2023-30 Strategic Plan emphasizes creating safe and supportive environments for students. Walker observes that participating in eSports has helped students develop friendships beyond their regular classes: “They’re in all different classes during the day… Now they talk to each other in hallways.”
Walker is pleased with how quickly bonds have formed among participants: “I’m happy to see those same things occur with eSports.” The club offers an opportunity for students to try new activities and connect within their school community.
Fox5 has covered similar initiatives at South Lakes High School’s eSports team.
