LHS esports ready for start of school year

LHS esports ready for start of school year

By Kate Goodman, MCP Correspondant. 

Oriole News is a presentation of Ludington Area School District in partnership with Mason County Press. 

LUDINGTON — As the start of the school year quickly approaches, the Ludington High School’s esports program is prepared for its new season. “It’s gonna be a cool season,” remarked senior Luke Hanson.

Started in January of 2021, esports was created for students to come together and play video games. “It’s all about team building, to form bonds and grow together.” said senior co-captain, Ethan Funke. 

The club offers popular games amongst the gaming community both SMITE and League of Legends. 

SMITE, a game based on mythology, is a multiplayer battle. “It’s almost like capturing the flag,” said Steve Foresberg, vice principal of LHS and coach of esports, “There are items a player can get to help you perform better.”  League of Legends is slightly different. It can be played alone, but is more fun when played as a team. 

“The game is always changing, becoming different and adding new people,” said junior Rylan Mirretti, “but if you’re good, you can help your team.

Even though the esports camp that was scheduled to occur the first week of August was unsuccessful, the teams did not let that bring them down. Both counselors of SMITE and League of Legends spent the day updating their software. Senior co-captain, Ben Walunas stated ways he is working on promoting the program: “We will have posters around the school. And, hope to one day start live streaming” the video game events.

The esports team members said they are looking forward to the upcoming fall season. The team typically meets three days a week, right after school, and competes in competitions once a week. The team is looking for new members to join this school year. “I was hesitant to join,” remarked alumni Ryleigh Contreras, “but if your schedule is free, try it. You don’t have to be good, that’s why we’re here to help.”

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