Video games have gotten a bad rap in recent years. Instead of playing outside until dark, kids, it seems, would rather be online with their friends playing games like Rocket League or Call of Duty. Due to Covid-19 and restrictions placed on sports, Esports has emerged as a way to remain competitive as well as a way to stay in touch when kids can’t physically compete or get together.

According to Travis Grant, Programmer at Gorham Recreation Department, Esports is essentially organized video gaming. “It is a good way to connect people and create relationships while competing alongside or against each other. This is something that the Rec Department has been trying to get into for a while, and what better time than during a pandemic. Individuals can compete from their own homes.” he said.

Even the MPA (Maine Principals Association) has jumped on the bandwagon, making Esports a varsity sport. What makes this interesting, is that participation isn’t just from athletes, but also students who are interested in gaming. This summer, Dayton Crockett, a current freshman at GHS, was going through a very difficult time. He emailed Principal Brian Jandreau and others to ask if GHS could participate in the Esports program. Principal Jandreau responded saying he could see Dayton had done his research and he would pass the request on to AD Tim Spears.

Crockett enjoys sports, playing both hockey and lacrosse. He said he said he misses being on the field or ice; feeling free to be himself, and doing what he loves with his friends and teammates. He also said he loves gaming. With everything going on, he shared “Lately I haven’t seen many of my friends, but I have been able to play with them over gaming. It is a way to be social but at the same time play a game with them. So I thought what If I tried to bring three of my favorite things to Gorham, sports, friends and gaming.” When it comes to games, he suggested popular ones, like Call of Duty, Fortnite, NHL, Madden, FIFA, and Rocket League. When it comes to why he wants to participate in Esports Crockett said, “It’s like you have a big family cheering you on and you have a community of happiness, especially if you are playing a rival.”

The Gorham Recreation Department has also recently started an Esports program. While it is just beginning, they are offering limited games that include Madden, FIFA, Fortnite, Rocket League, and Super Smash Bros. If you are hoping to play the sports games Grant shared “Unfortunately, our sports games (Madden, and FIFA) are only offered for the Playstation 4. As our leagues become larger and expand to players of all ages, we plan to include more games.”

Currently, the Gorham Recreation Department is open to anyone ages 8-18, however, at some point they are planning to open leagues to players of all ages. If you are interested in signing up for Esports through the Gorham Recreation Department Grant said “Each player must own a copy of the game that they will be playing in the league, along with a compatible system and wireless internet.” If interested in a league, reach out to the Gorham Recreation Department for registration information.

Keagen Beaulieu age 10, grade 4 plays basketball, soccer, and baseball, since the pandemic started he has missed the baseball season and so far basketball. “I miss playing the games and I miss having something to look forward to. Esports has given me something to look forward to. I’m excited for the competition.” Beaulieu said. He likes Esports because the Rec will be playing Rocket League, which is his game of choice.

While we still want to encourage the kids to get outside and enjoy some fresh air, Esports is an option those who are missing their particular sport, their teammates or the need to compete. In a time where we are staying home, Esports may be just what you’re looking for as a social and competitive escape.