The Random Lake School District’s Esports team, founded in 2018, has grown into one of the state’s most prolific and inclusive extracurricular programs. What began as an experiment in competitive gaming has since become a well-established team that gives students of all backgrounds a place to connect, compete, and grow.
The team holds state titles in Super Smash Bros. (2021), Smite (2021), and Super Smash Bros. again in the fall of 2024. They were also state runners-up in Super Smash Bros. (2020) and Smite (2022). These accomplishments are impressive on their own, but they’re even more meaningful when considering the doors they’ve opened for students: a few alumni now play on college teams, and one even received a full-ride scholarship thanks to their talent and leadership in Esports.
Unlike traditional sports, the Esports season runs year-round, with competitive seasons in fall, winter, and spring. Each season includes seven weeks of matches followed by playoffs, and the team competes in a variety of games, including Super Smash Bros., Rocket League, Mario Kart, and Fortnite. The flexibility of practices has helped the program thrive, drawing in students who might not otherwise be involved in extracurriculars and giving them a meaningful way to be part of the school community. The team also works closely with other coaches and programs in the school, helping to foster a sense of unity and collaboration across activities.
Beyond competition, the growth students experience through Esports is one of the most powerful aspects of the program. Many participants, especially those who tend to be quiet or reserved, have stepped into leadership roles as captains or mentors. These students not only lead their teams during matches but also support younger players, becoming role models in the process. The experience teaches valuable skills like communication, strategy, teamwork, and resilience.
RLHS Esports director, Mr. Lee Itson shares his view of the programs success, “Even though we have been successful in our competitions, the way I grade our program a success is through the friendships made, the smiles on the faces of the team and the opportunities students have been able to get through our program.”
Despite the success and growing recognition, misconceptions about Esports still linger. Some don’t see it as a “real” sport, but those involved know otherwise. Esports requires intense focus, strategy, dedication, and teamwork, just like any other athletic activity. The skills students develop are real and transferable, and their efforts deserve the same support and celebration as more traditional programs.
Looking ahead, the Random Lake Esports team aims to keep building on its success. Goals include continuing strong performances in competitions, expanding the middle school program, and creating more opportunities for the community to engage with and support the team, whether through events like Fall Fest or simply cheering on the players during a match.
At its core, Esports at Random Lake is about giving students a place to belong, a chance to grow, and an opportunity to be celebrated for being part of one of the best programs in the state while they do something they love.