Holly Middle School Students Game Their Way Into STEM Learning

Holly, MI — June 20, 2025

Holly Middle School students and staff are celebrating a successful first year of the school’s esports team, including the team’s first-ever competition in the multiplayer video gaming activity.

At the beginning of the school year, the Holly Middle School students formed teams to compete in the Super Smash Bros. and Mario Kart esports leagues. Along the way, the Bronchos learned about sportsmanship and experienced the camaraderie of being part of a competitive team while learning Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) skills that last a lifetime.

Last fall, the students honed their gaming skills during practice competitions against other schools in preparation for online competition this spring. Beginning in February, the teams started competing against other schools for coveted spots in the esports finals at Oakland University. The esports team is led by coach Ben Lin.

Two Broncho teams made it to the Super Smash Bros. playoffs, and one team qualified for the in-person championship. Holly Middle School students Mason Day, William Yarbrough and Liam Senton finished in the top four during the in-person competition.

“Esports is a fun way for our students to engage in STEM learning that provides the building blocks for success and eventually for in-demand careers,” said Monica Turner, Holly Middle School principal. “We are thrilled to see our esports program draw so much interest in just our first year and look forward to involving more students next season as we open our new middle school.”

“Congratulations to these talented Bronchos who had a unique opportunity to develop teamwork, self-discipline and other key life skills on our esports team,” said Scott Roper, Holly Area Schools superintendent. “We look forward to the continued growth of our esports program as part of our ongoing efforts to prepare all Bronchos for success and the careers of tomorrow.”