LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Western High School has officially opened its cutting-edge E-Sports Arena designed for student use. Key Information The E-Sports Arena spans 4,300 square feet and is equipped with advanced technology and equipment Students enrolled in the Computer Science and digital design and gaming development programs will attend classes in the arena The facility will […]
LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Western High School has officially opened its cutting-edge E-Sports Arena designed for student use.
Freshman Xavier Smith, 14, enjoys gaming, primarily team-based titles. On Friday, he and his friends experienced Super Smash Bros. for the first time in the newly inaugurated E-Sports Arena.
“It’s pretty awesome. They’ve been building anticipation for years, ever since my brother graduated from here,” Smith remarked.
Officials from Jefferson County Public Schools celebrated the launch of Western High School’s new esports facility, which measures 4,300 square feet.
“This presents an incredible opportunity for students. Those at Western High School are already mastering software development, building and repairing PCs, as well as computer programming. Now, they have this impressive workspace to conduct their activities, outshining other students across the Commonwealth of Kentucky. This will attract students to apply to this high school,” said Dr. Marty Pollio, JCPS Superintendent.
This initiative has been underway for over two years. Participants in the Computer Science and digital design and gaming development programs will utilize the arena for classes. The arena will also feature broadcasting production elements. Students will take on roles as “shout casters,” detailing the gameplay. Administrators emphasize that it transcends mere video gaming.
“While gaming is certainly enjoyable, it also encompasses creating their own games or characters, involving aspects like audio and visuals. Coding plays a crucial role in this process. Computer programming and understanding the intricate details involved in animating a character, for instance, are vital skills,” explained principal Melanie Weaver.
Esports are increasingly recognized at colleges, universities, and high schools, already being a component of the Kentucky High School Athletic Association. Additionally, there are esports scholarships available.
“Numerous universities are creating esports spaces that might not be as impressive as ours. A key goal for us is to provide our students the chance to earn college scholarships,” noted Greg Fehr from JCPS.
Smith added, “The chance to receive a scholarship from this is pretty great.”
He mentioned his intention to spend considerable time in the new arena in the upcoming years.
Administrators revealed that the arena is set to host statewide competitions and tournaments in the future.
