photo from PSITS Region 11 facebook page
Over the past few years, the popularity of esports has experienced an unprecedented surge, transforming from casual activities enjoyed in living rooms to fully-fledged professional competitions that captivate millions of viewers worldwide. This remarkable ascent has prompted conversations within academic circles regarding the feasibility of incorporating esports into the realm of collegiate sports.
However, what if we took this concept even further? What if universities not only embraced esports as mere clubs or extracurricular activities, but recognized them as varsity sports, complete with scholarships, dedicated coaching staff, and cutting-edge facilities? Let us delve into this captivating prospect and examine its potential impact on students, universities, and the wider esports industry.
In the bustling city of Davao, nestled within the vibrant Region 11, the Philippine Society of Information Technology Students
hosted an enthralling event that showcased students’ talents in Esports competitions, giving them the opportunity to proudly represent their respective schools.
We were fortunate enough to have a conversation with the esteemed Miss Hilary Mae Sanchez, who currently holds the esteemed position of President within the PSITS community for Region 11.
photo from PSITS Region 11 facebook page
Hello Miss Hillary Mae Sanchez can you tell us about PSITS?:
Absolutely! PSITS, or the Philippine Society of Information Technology Students, is an energetic student organization that unifies all IT Clubs from CHED-accredited colleges and universities in the region. Our ultimate goal is to empower IT students by providing them with a platform to showcase their talents and refine their skills in various fields. This is why we proudly organize an annual event that features exciting competitions in a wide range of categories, including the ever-evolving world of Esports.
photo from PSITS Region 11 facebook page
Why do you incorporate Esports?
At PSITS, we recognize and value Esports as a legitimate sport under the realm of technology programs.
We acknowledge the immense level of skill, strategic thinking, and teamwork required to excel in Esports, reflecting the same complexities and competitive nature found in traditional sports.
How many schools participated?
When it comes to our Esports events, we are proud to have around 10 schools from Region 11 actively participating in Dota 2 competitions. But let me assure you, our events are not limited to just Dota 2. We make sure to include other popular games like CS:GO and Valorant, catering to a diverse set of gaming interests. And for our mobile gamers, fear not because we also feature games like CODM and Mobile Legends in our lineup.
photo from PSITS Region 11 facebook page
What preparations are being made?
With such a wide reach covering both public and private schools in Region 11, preparing for these events is no easy feat. That’s why we work closely with local computer shops here in Davao City called NCGC esports, coming together to ensure the smooth organization and execution of our events. This collaboration is vital in ensuring that our events are well-managed and successful.
Are there any criteria for the players?
Our approach to selecting players for our Esports events is one of inclusivity – all students from our school are encouraged to join and showcase their talents. We believe in providing equal access and opportunities for students who share a love for gaming, regardless of their skill level or prior experience. Our ultimate goal is to cultivate a strong sense of camaraderie and excitement for Esports, uniting students from diverse backgrounds.
What impact is anticipated from this program?
I firmly believe that our program will have a profoundly positive impact on students. Not only does it provide a unique opportunity for them to connect with their peers and enjoy themselves, which is crucial for their overall well-being amidst their academic pursuits, but it also strikes a balance between studying and leisure, ultimately enhancing their educational experience.
Beyond its recreational benefits, this program also exposes students to the competitive world of Esports. This exposure not only nurtures their interest in Esports,
but also creates opportunities for those looking to pursue a career in the gaming industry, whether as professional players, game developers, or in other related fields.
Ultimately, our program aims to inspire students by opening their eyes to the vast potential within the gaming world.
photo from PSITS Region 11 facebook page
What are the goals?
Our ultimate objective is to ensure the sustainability of this venture on a yearly basis, with a special focus on engaging students in the Information Technology field. By organizing this event as a recurring occurrence, our aim is to establish a tradition that not only enhances the overall student experience but also continuously nurtures a passion for Esports among IT students. This annual event serves as a platform for showcasing talent, promoting a competitive spirit, and fostering teamwork and strategic thinking – all valuable skills that extend beyond the gaming world. Moreover, by committing to an annual cadence, we strive to expand the event’s reach and elevate its quality, garnering more participants and spectators each year. This consistency will allow us to… [add in final point about the benefits of an annual event].
What message do you have for the gamers?
If the thought of transforming your love for gaming into a profession has been lingering in your mind, I have a crucial piece of advice for you: go for it wholeheartedly, but don’t overlook your education.
While it’s undeniably crucial to pursue your passion for Esports, don’t overlook the importance of your academic studies. The Esports industry offers a vast array of opportunities beyond just playing professionally, including game development, event management, and marketing.
By establishing a strong educational foundation, you not only have a safety net but also open doors to various paths within the gaming industry and beyond. Additionally, the skills and discipline acquired through your studies, such as teamwork, problem-solving, and time management, are directly applicable to your gaming career. They can significantly improve your performance as a player and equip you with the necessary abilities to tackle the diverse challenges of the professional world.
If Esports is your true passion, wholeheartedly embrace it, but always keep in mind that achieving success in this industry – as in any other – demands a balanced and all-encompassing approach. Put in dedicated effort, enjoy the game to the fullest, and leave the doors open for a future that unites your enthusiasm for gaming with a stable and fulfilling profession.
What message do you have for the participants?
Get ready to embrace the excitement of competition and fully immerse yourself in this amazing experience. Let it fuel your curiosity and motivate you to discover all the boundless opportunities that lie within the world of Esports and technology. Wishing all of you the very best of luck!
What message would you like to convey to the parents?
Nurture your children’s passion for gaming by showing genuine interest in their hobby. Connect with them about the specific games they enjoy, the valuable skills they are honing, and the exciting competitions they are preparing for. Your encouragement and involvement can greatly boost their self-confidence, assist them in balancing their gaming pursuits with academic obligations, and serve as a guiding hand in their future aspirations. However, supporting your children’s Esports pursuits does not equate to a carte blanche for unlimited screen time.
It involves understanding and fostering their passion while also promoting a well-rounded lifestyle that includes studying and other activities.
By supporting your children’s interests in Esports, you are not only showing them that you value their passions, but also giving them the opportunity to explore a multitude of options that can lead to rewarding careers and valuable skills. Through your understanding and encouragement, you have the power to greatly impact their experience in the competitive and collaborative realm of Esports.
photo from PSITS Region 11 facebook page
Final question: How do you see Esports progressing?
Without a doubt, I am convinced that the world of Esports will continue to thrive and reach new heights of acceptance worldwide. The progress of Esports in recent years has been truly astounding, evolving from a small pastime into a prestigious and widely-respected competitive arena that competes with traditional sports in terms of captivating viewers, attracting investment, and making a significant cultural impact.
The captivating power of Esports icons, such as South Korea’s Faker, proves its immense potential and the profound influence it can wield on both individuals and communities. Renowned as the greatest League of Legends player to date,
Faker’s successes extend beyond the game, as he has become a beacon for countless individuals to chase their gaming and Esports dreams. His journey serves as a prime example of how Esports athletes can attain stardom, lucrative careers, and even national recognition, similar to traditional sports players.
With each passing day, it becomes increasingly evident that Esports is far from a passing fad. Its commendable standing within the realm of entertainment is built upon a firm foundation, united, fervent followers, and a definitive trajectory towards growth and recognition.
As it continues to evolve, Esports has the potential to spark fresh avenues for ingenuity, cooperation, and professional prospects, establishing itself as an integral and esteemed facet of modern-day society.
photo from PSITS Region 11 facebook page