Gaming Athletes Learn, Compete & Shine

In its third year, the Michigian High School Esports League hosted its first ever Explore Esports one-day conference in conjunction with the Fall 2022 Season Semi-Finals and Championship matches at Oakland University where students and spectators watched as gamers battled for trophies in the Oackland Center Habitat open concept venue.

More than 230 attendees from across Michigan learned from esports professionals, college coaches and players, and other industry leaders about the benefits of providing esports to student-athletes, dealing with player behavior, how to start a program, game strategy and much more.

“If you’re not having fun, you’re doing it wrong,” said Edward Cleland, esports industry leader in wellness and performance, as he kicked off the event as the keynote speaker.

The remainder of the day consisted of three rounds of breakout sessions, semi-final matches and a keynote panel.

“It is incredibly exciting to see the young up-and-coming esports talent and the growing resources out of the high school programs in the state of Michigan,” said Carl Leone, OU Esports Head Coach.

Twelve teams from eight schools competed in the MHSEL Fall 2022 Semi-Finals matches on Dec. 9 for the opportunity to be in the Championship round on Dec. 10 for the league’s three state game titles.

Expert Panel Responds to Player & Coach Questions

Having the opportunity to ask the state’s gaming leaders burning questions is something MHSEL can offer esport athletes like this Belleville High School senior who attended with his team.