Sitting around on a library couch after school may not sound intense, but for about a dozen Dearborn High students, this is how they prepare for some serious competition.
Starting this semester, the district’s three traditional high schools are officially joining the world of esports. Dearborn, Edsel Ford and Fordson high schools now all have teams that will allow students to compete in this growing field that turns video games into an official school activity.
Collin Chamblin, a Dearborn High 11th grader, said joining the esports team has helped him make some new friends at the school, even though he was already involved in marching band, Quiz Bowl and Arabic Club.
“I think it’s a great club to do, especially if you are into playing games. It’s a great way to meet other people who are into gaming,” he said.
Michigan has more than 740 esports teams, said Brad Neff. The Dearborn High media specialist is also the school’s esports sponsor. District students will compete online through the Michigan High School Esports League, which is under the umbrella of the Michigan Association of Secondary School Principals.
“Esports allows students who may not be involved in traditional athletics to be part of a team while developing important skills that engage science, technology, engineering, and math,” Mr. Neff said. “These skills can help students to reach for greater success in life. What the students learn with esports can help them excel in so many ways.”
The Dearborn High team will compete online with Madden 2026 football and Mario Kart Deluxe.
“By participating in eSports the students learn a commitment to teamwork and community building. All of our students will play games, analyze data, review strategies, and work to understand computer hardware and software,” Mr. Neff said.
Edsel Ford is planning to compete on Nintendo’s Smash Bros, said advisor Jihad Baydoun.
“Esports is an amazing opportunity for students to get together and show off their gaming skills against members all over the country. It fosters competition in a safe environment,“ Mr. Baydoun said.
