In September, the esports program from Michigan State University (MSU) collaborated with the Michigan High School Esports League (MHSEL) to host “Esports Day” at the Michigan State Capitol.
As one of the fastest-growing competitive organizations, MSU and MHSEL devoted this event to provide support, education, and awareness to the developing benefits of scholastic esports competition in Michigan.
With nearly 100 legislative and governmental guests in attendance, Esports Day gathered dedicated students and coaches from Dansville High School, Divine Child, Mona Shores, and Novi to showcase the importance of teamwork, communication and perseverance in academic and social settings.
“We were honored to represent Michigan State University and collegiate esports at the Capitol,” said MSU Esports Director Chris Bilski. “Talking with state legislators about the opportunities in esports, the explosive growth we are seeing across the state of Michigan, and the successes and vision for Esports at Michigan State was a powerful experience that we hope we have the chance to do again soon.”
MSU and the MHSEL divided the event into four interactive stations:
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Watch It: Attendees viewed live competition between Divine Child High and MSU student esports athletes
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Play It: Participants were able to experience an esports competition in a friendly Mario Kart 8 Deluxe race with high school student-athletes as the instructors.
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Learn It: Discover the unique benefits of scholastic esports through expert-led conversations and informational handouts.
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Ask It: Guests engaged with high school and collegiate esports athletes and coaches to gain insight of their personal experiences on how esports have positively impacted their lives.
As MSU prepares for another exciting season in varsity competition, the Spartans were honored to recognize high school students and coaches who share similar aspirations for scholastic esports.
“Esports Day at the Capitol was a phenomenal event,” said MSU Esports Content and Production Coordinator Jono Eaton. “It was great to get the opportunity to speak to legislators about the impact esports has on students. Being able to show that esports is more than simply gaming and that the skills developed on our teams translate to the workforce will help garner support for scholastic esports. We are thankful for the Michigan High School Esports League for having us out to the event.”
Learn more about Esports at MSU
By: Miles Sloan