Just a decade ago, the image of a teenager hunched over a computer screen, furiously clicking away at a video game, would likely draw sighs of exasperation from parents and educators alike.

Esports, or competitive video gaming, was often seen as a frivolous distraction. Many people viewed it as a time-sink with little to offer in the way of personal development.

However, the landscape of gaming has undergone a dramatic shift. Today, esports events draw millions of live and online viewers, boast multimillion dollar sponsorships, and are even being integrated into school curricula. This exploding industry is not only changing the way we view video games but is also demonstrating its potential to equip students with valuable skills for their future in the workforce.

Building social connections through gaming
The traditional stereotype of the solitary gamer locked away in their room is being replaced by a new reality that fosters a strong sense of community and social interaction. Unlike single-player games, esports are inherently team-based activities.

Students work together, strategising, communicating, and co-ordinating their efforts to achieve victory. This collaborative environment fosters crucial social skills such as teamwork, communication, critical thinking and leadership – all highly sought-after attributes in today's job market.

Inclusivity takes centre stage
Another key benefit of esports is its inclusivity. Unlike traditional sports, which can have physical barriers to entry, it offers a level playing field for a diverse range of students. Both male and female identifying gamers are increasingly participating in social and competitive gaming and enjoying its benefits. This fosters a sense of belonging and acceptance within the school community, allowing students of all backgrounds to find a niche where they can excel. Within gaming communities, marginalised and minority groups also find acceptance, alliances and integration. Gaming gives opportunities for students of all abilities a level playing field, especially those with neurodiverse backgrounds.

Transferrable skills for success
Participation in esports goes beyond the thrill of competition. It can actually equip students with a valuable arsenal of transferrable skills that can be applied beyond the gaming world. In the United States, an Extreme Networks eCampus News Worldwide Esports Survey found that 21 per cent of schools already have an esports program. While here in Australia, The Australia Plays Reports 2023 conducted by Bond University and Interactive Games and Entertainment Association (IGEA) found that 81% of all Australian's play video games.

From a technical standpoint, esports expose students to the intricate world of computer networking. Understanding how low-latency Wi-Fi networks and high-speed broadband connections function can spark an interest in IT careers, thus providing a foundation for future studies in this high-demand field.

However, the benefits extend far beyond the technical. The fast-paced nature of esports competitions demands sharp critical thinking and rapid decision-making skills. In a game environment where strategies can shift in a heartbeat, students learn to analyse situations, make quick judgments, and adapt their plans accordingly. These are vital skills in almost any professional setting, from fast-paced financial trading floors to the ever-evolving world of marketing and advertising.

But the skills developed through esports aren't limited to just technical and cognitive abilities. Teamwork and leadership are honed through the process of strategising with teammates, motivating one another, and adapting to the actions of opponents. These interpersonal skills are essential for success in collaborative work environments - a key facet of the modern workplace.

Career opportunities in the esports arena
Esports aren't just about the players themselves. Just like traditional sports, this industry employs a vast array of professionals behind the scenes. Marketing, event management, content creation, and broadcasting are just some of the exciting career paths that exist within the esports ecosystem. By participating in esports programs, students gain first-hand exposure to these diverse career opportunities, opening their eyes to a world of possibilities beyond the realm of professional gaming.

Igniting esports in Australian schools
According to the Extreme Networks eCampus News Esports Survey, 38% of schools in the US have an esports competition facility, and 24% are planning to implement one. Australia has also emerged as a leader in the movement to integrate esports into the educational landscape. The FUSE Cup, established in 2020, serves as a prime example. Designed specifically for school aged students, this international esports tournament boasts more than 50,000 participants from some 350 schools.   When it comes to PC based esports, the general computing and networking required capabilities include:

• High speed, high density, ultra reliable Wi-Fi, ensuring minimum latency and maximum bandwidth
• High performance game workstations
• Audio communication among teammates
• Video capture and connection to broadcast sites like Twitch and YouTube
• Wi-Fi connections for coaches and spectators

The success of initiatives like The FUSE Cup demonstrates the growing acceptance of esports as a legitimate and valuable extracurricular activity.

The Future of education: Game on
The rise of esports represents a paradigm shift in the way we view video games. They are no longer just a form of entertainment, but rather a platform for fostering valuable social and cognitive skills in students.

By integrating esports into curricula, schools are embracing a new form of learning that caters to the interests of today's digitally native generation. As esports continue to grow in popularity and influence, one thing is certain: the future of education is looking increasingly like it's game on.