Esports has experienced significant growth in Northwest Indiana high schools, providing students with opportunities to develop teamwork, strategic thinking, and problem-solving skills. Several organizations and institutions have been instrumental in fostering this expansion.
The Indiana Esports Network (IEN) is a volunteer-driven, educator-led organization comprising over 80 school districts across Indiana. IEN aims to engage students not typically involved in traditional athletics by using esports as a medium to enhance academic performance and social growth.
Purdue University Northwest (PNW) has partnered with IEN to host high school Fortnite statewide competitions. They also support local high schools by providing access to its esports arenas for meetings and practices. This includes Hammond Central High School, Hobart High School, Michigan City High School, and Munster High School.
Portage High School made a significant impact in 2023 by claiming the 3A Rocket League state championship after scoring the decisive goal in an intense game six overtime battle. Michigan City High School made history in 2024, as Katelyn Ast became the school’s first-ever esports signing with Manchester University. This milestone marks an exciting development for the esports scene in Northwest Indiana.
Hobart High School’s Brickie Esports program had an outstanding 2024 season, securing multiple state titles and solidifying its reputation as a competitive force in Indiana high school esports. The Super Smash Bros. Ultimate team claimed a state championship, with standout performances from Daveion Holmes, Marcus Fernandez, Joshua Gilbert, Nick Petrakovic, and Xavier Torres.
The varsity Valorant team also brought home its second state title. This effort was led by Dylan Ault, Tyler Johnson, Chandler Johnson, Liam Garcia, Sofia Melgarejo, and Jackson Butler. The Rocket League team also showed strong in Indiana High School Esports Network Division AA, gaining valuable experience against tough opponents like Lakewood High School.
The program participated in the Indiana Esports Network State Championships at Ball State University, thanks to support from sponsors such as ZOTAC USA, LANFest, LeagueOS, and Esports Indiana. In 2025, Brickie Esports aims to expand its team rosters, enhance training programs, and increase community engagement, strengthening its presence in the competitive esports landscape.
Munster High School is gearing up for an exciting Spring 2025 season in the Prime League 2nd Division. While they've recently faced some tough competition, including a challenging best-of-five series against Footprint, and another ferocious match against All For One Gaming, they are continuously growing and gaining valuable experience this year. This season is full of even more opportunities for Munster High School as they continue to build and strengthen their esports program.
La Porte High School's Esports program is gearing up for an exciting 2025. With nearly 85 students attending a call-out meeting on Tuesday, February 18, the interest and energy around competitive gaming are stronger than ever as big things are ahead for this growing club!
The season officially kicked off on February 10. Schools will be fighting for the opportunity to compete in the state finals scheduled for April 26. All games are slated to start at 4 p.m. Bringing more competitive opportunities for these schools is an important way to showcase the talent and determination of the students. Integrating esports into schools enhances the students' gaming skills and opens avenues for academic and personal growth.