In the first 11 episodes of the Esports Classroom Podcast, I have been able to get insight from people with a variety of connections to esports. We have had high school coaches, college coaches, members of professional organizations, and others connected to esports. In future episodes we will include more perspectives and even have upcoming episodes with college esports players. While we are only really 10 episodes in with guests, there are some topics that seem to be common focal points. 

The following are just a sample of the main takeaways we have from the first 11 episodes and I can’t wait to hear what others will have to share. This little project of mine will hopefully produce some positive outcomes for either coaches or players. If anything, I wanted to highlight the positive impact esports can have and I think we have fully hit that mark.

Program Origins and Growth Many programs began with simple beginnings, often initiated by teachers with little prior esports experience or through student interest. Jason started his program at Cedar Rapids Kennedy with three students playing Rocket League on personal equipment before growing it into a structured program with significant community support. Similarly, Isaac began with a small budget for six computers, initially focusing on PC titles before expanding to consoles to increase participation. Programs often rely on repurposing existing computer labs, such as CAD or business labs, rather than having dedicated esports spaces. At the collegiate level, growth can be explosive; Nate noted that Marshalltown Community College grew from 22 students to over 90 students in just a few years, offering scholarships to roughly half the roster.

Coaching Philosophies and Skill Transfer A recurring theme is the transfer of traditional coaching skills to esports. Jason, a long-time football coach, emphasized that while the delivery changes, the philosophy regarding expectations and discipline remains the same. A major challenge coaches face is teaching structure to students used to playing casually at home; Lauren noted that students must learn that practice is for improvement and competition, not just “goofing around” for three hours.

Coaching strategies vary by game title. Austin explains that he coaches Super Smash Bros. individually, using drills like “the gauntlet,” whereas Overwatch requires a focus on team communication and being a team instead of just individuals. Communication is easily the most critical skill to teach, as students often lack the ability to communicate effectively in a team setting initially. Shayne emphasized a philosophy of “priority,” teaching students to communicate their needs and commitments confidently.

Student Impact and School Culture The most significant benefit cited is providing a “home” for students who are not involved in other school activities. Lauren and Mike highlighted that esports reaches a demographic of students who might otherwise lack school pride or a sense of belonging. This engagement often leads to academic improvement; Austin and Shayne both noted that gpa’s improved once students had the accountability of staying eligible for the team.

Esports also fosters diversity and social development. Shayne noted that his program naturally includes female students and a significant number of students with IEPs or 504 plans, breaking down cliques through shared gaming interests. Furthermore, successful programs helped destigmatize gaming within the community, shifting the narrative from “playing video games” to competing for state championships and scholarships.

Collegiate Pathways and Recruitment There is also the growing pipeline between high school and collegiate esports. Josh and Nate both discussed how recruitment has evolved, with colleges now actively seeking students and offering scholarships that can make higher education financially viable for families who hadn’t considered it,. Cole, representing the National Association of Esports Coaches and Directors (NAECAD), emphasized that effective recruitment is about finding the right culture fit rather than just filling seats. He also stressed the importance of avoiding burnout by maintaining distinct seasons rather than encouraging year-round competitive play.

Challenges and Obstacles Coaches face several logistical and technical hurdles:

• Funding and Equipment: Many programs struggle to acquire hardware, often relying on fundraising or donations. Josh pointed out that while the cost of entry can be high for PC labs, schools can start cheaply with Nintendo Switches.
• Technical Issues: Schools often face IT restrictions, such as firewalls or blocks on Discord, and network issues that disrupt gameplay. Isaac shared experiences of computers “bricking” or failing during crucial matches.
• Stigma: Despite progress, some coaches still face skepticism from parents or administrators who view esports as merely playing video games rather than a structured activity.

Community and Industry Ecosystem The guests frequently praise state-level organizations, particularly the Iowa High School Esports Association, for creating a supportive ecosystem where coaches share knowledge rather than hoarding secrets. In-person state tournaments are a vital experience that force students to adapt their communication and deal with the pressure of a live audience. Finally, the industry offers career pathways beyond playing. Mike and Josh highlighted opportunities in shout-casting, graphic design, and management, preparing students for future careers in technology and media.

The question now is what else can we learn. I have a number of guests all lined up and there is so much more to learn. Esports really is still a young thing in schools but it is growing rapidly. Each state and each school is doing things just a bit different which allows for a lot of learning to take place. Esports may not be at the levels of other sports and activities but it has potential and I already know the potential it has on students. It can change lives and as an educator, that makes me want to do even more.

If you are an esports coach, player, director, or connected in anyway to high school or collegiate esports and are interested in joining me on the podcast, just send me an email at donovanscience@gmail.com. 

Remember you can check out All episodes on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube.