EMU Today

YPSILANTI --The growing popularity of gaming presents opportunities for students to train, perform and engage with others from across the state. As a result of this trend, the Michigan High School Esports League (MHSEL) is hosting their grand finals at Eastern Michigan University’s Student Center on Saturday, Dec. 11 from 1-5:30 p.m. This event is open to the public and has a $10 entry fee.

More than 30 schools, including 121 teams, are participating in the first in-person esports championship event competing for three multiple-player strategy-based game titles. Winning schools will receive trophies as well as individual medals.

“Esports is an opportunity that any student can be involved in all while exploring college and career opportunities,” said Assistant Director of Esports and Programming for the REC/IM, Charles Spencer. “Students exposed to esports acquire soft skills which benefit a multitude of STEM careers.”

Spectators will have the opportunity to watch live action finals of various, popular game titles such as League of Legends, Rocket League and Super Smash Bros. Ultimate in the exhibition and scrimmage area. EMU esports student-athletes will also host clinics and strategy sessions for high school coaches and athletes. Additionally, attendees can participate in a panel discussion featuring career, college and industry professionals discussing the current and future landscape of esports.

Esports is a program that is growing at an exponential rate at EMU. In May of 2020, EMU partnered with Gen. G, a global esports organization, to implement programming that further develops support in majors such as gaming, esports and entrepreneurship.

“Schools are able to compete against other student-athletes from across the state,” said Director of Digital Learning & Resources for Michigan Association of Secondary School Principals (MASSP) and oversee MHSEL, Ryan Cayce. “This live and in person experience is great for those who are new to the ever-growing industry.”

For more information, please visit https://massp.com/events/esports-fall-championships-clinic

About Eastern Michigan University

Founded in 1849, Eastern is the second oldest public university in Michigan. It currently serves more than 16,000 students pursuing undergraduate, graduate, specialist, doctoral and certificate degrees in the arts, sciences and professions. In all, more than 300 majors, minors and concentrations are delivered through the University's Colleges of Arts and Sciences; Business; Education; Engineering and Technology; Health and Human Services; and, its graduate school. EMU is regularly recognized by national publications for its excellence, diversity, and commitment to applied education. For more information about Eastern Michigan University, visit the University's website.