BMHS Adds CIF-Sanctioned "eSports" to School's Athletic Program

Torrance, CA (September 19, 2019): Bishop Montgomery is thrilled to announce membership in California Interscholastic Federation's E-League and the addition of eSports to its athletic offerings. Recently sanctioned by CIF, the state's governing sports body, E-league will offer two seasons of competitive play— spring and fall.
 
CIF, who recently partnered with premier high school eSports provider PlayVS, will oversee regionally-organized sections of 6-10 teams each, with one to two competitions each week. Post-season play will include both section and state invitationals for the top-performing teams. “Esports provides a new opportunity for students to become athletes,” says Dr. Clint Kennedy, Director of Education & Acquisition at PlayVS. “It opens the door to scholarships, recognition, and newfound communities on campus."

For Bishop, eSports is also a welcome addition to both the school's athletic and STEM programs, and brings new opportunities to students who enjoy team activities, have an interest in gaming, or both. The school's existing technology and software is already compatible with eSport videogames and will allow team members to jump right into team-friendly, CIF-sanctioned games including League of Legends, Smite, and Rocket League. With over 200 CIF high schools playing, Bishop Montgomery has a healthy base of competitors within the state.

In addition, Bishop's eSports teams will also benefit from a partnership with HCEL, High School eSports League, and compete against other schools in the Southern California region and across the nation year-round.  HCEL's games help expand BMHS' game offerings to include Minecraft, NBA 2K20, Madden 20, HearthStone, and Super Smash Bros Ultimate

These new eSports teams join a large athletic program already established at Bishop Montgomery and provide additional avenues for students to reap the benefits of team sports that include dedication, perseverance, and teamwork.  Meeting weekly in BMHS' state-of-the-art computer lab, the teams will also provide opportunities for students to hone strategic thinking, collaboration, and problem-solving skills, as well as provide exposure to potential career pathways and even possible college scholarships. 

Open to students of all grade levels to sharpen skills and formulate strategies in friendly competitions with classmates, BMHS' inaugural eSports team welcomes all levels of gaming experience. Students are invited to play games, make new friends, and be part of this fast-growing and exciting area of high school extra-curricular activities. For more information, contact eSports team moderator, Brian Adams at [email protected] or (310)540-2021 x272.