If you're like me and have lost touch of all the cool and exciting things going on in area high schools, then you should check out this video from Waterloo Schools talking about "Esports".

If you're not familiar, "Esports" is a form of sports competition using video games. As teenagers try to navigate through the pandemic, the interest and participation level has skyrocketed as its gives them a safe way to be part of an organized activity. Most sports focus more on the physical aspect, while "Esports" focuses more on the mental aspect of it. However, don't be fooled, it takes a lot of hand/eye coordination to be good!

"Esports" has given these students an outlet to exhibit their creativity, while showing off their gaming skills. Being part of a club keeps students excited about going to school because they know they have something to look forward to at the end of the day. This just may be what some students need to stay in school. Just like any sports team, there's motivation to not let your team down. Plus, the healthy competition with other schools makes it a lot of fun.

There are about 14 teams in the Iowa High School Esports Association, including Waterloo East, Dike-New Hartford, and West Delaware. The East High team is currently ranked #1 and undefeated. Corey Kennis is the "Esports" coach at East High school. Commenting about his team, he said "that it's nice to see them work through adversity, and figuring out how to communicate". "Video games are fun, but seeing them grow as an individual and as a person is what does it for me."

Learn more by watching the video below:

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