Mount Vernon’s eSports Program

In order to meet the needs of this generation, we must remain agile to new ideas, embracing innovative approaches that redefine traditional educational models. Mount Vernon’s eSports program exemplifies this commitment, blending teamwork, strategy, and skill development to prepare students for success in life. Far beyond the stereotype of casual gaming, eSports athletes at Mount Vernon train rigorously, honing critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving abilities. Led by visionary coaches Nikolai Ibanez, Aaron Hawkins, and Tyler Dale, the program demonstrates how gaming can cultivate skills that transcend the virtual arena.

“Our goal isn’t just to develop students; it’s to cultivate individuals who think critically and engage meaningfully with the world,” shares Coach Hawkins. “At Mount Vernon, we aim to shape well-rounded individuals who embody specific qualities—who they are as people and what they can achieve. Our academics and athletics work hand in hand to help students reach this standard, preparing them for success in all areas of life.”

This weekend, Mount Vernon’s eSports team will compete in the 2024-2025 GHSA Fall Esports State Championships, powered by PlayVS, at the Bartow County eSports Arena. Representing the school in the Super Smash Bros. competition are Captain Callum Graham (‘25), Alan Maceyko (‘27), and Lucas Williams (‘27). The event, free for spectators, offers these players an opportunity to showcase their skills on a state-of-the-art competitive stage while also reflecting the growing recognition of eSports as a meaningful and legitimate platform for student achievement and growth.

More than just gameplay, Mount Vernon’s eSports program serves as a laboratory for innovation. Students develop essential skills such as strategic thinking, adaptability, and collaboration, spending countless hours analyzing opponents, refining techniques, and practicing under game-like conditions. These experiences mirror the resilience and critical thinking needed for success in academic and professional pursuits. By fostering persistence, preparation, and teamwork, the program reinforces the importance of a growth mindset.

Members of last year’s esports teams joined Upper Campus Head of Learning and Innovation Jared Colley for an episode of the Mount Vernon Ventures Start With Questions podcast, where they shared personal stories of how eSports facilitated significant social connections and personal growth, underscoring the community and inclusiveness of their program. The conversation revealed how the skills acquired through eSports, like strategic thinking, handling pressure, and finding friendships, are valuable beyond gaming and applicable in real-world situations.

Aligned with the school’s strategic plan, which emphasizes leveraging emerging innovation in target 3, the eSports program is a clear example of Mount Vernon’s forward-thinking approach. As the team prepares for the state playoffs, the excitement extends beyond winning—it’s about demonstrating how innovation in education creates confident, capable individuals ready to thrive in a rapidly evolving world. Spectators are invited to witness this transformative program in action, as Mount Vernon continues to redefine athletic excellence and student development.

Former MV eSports team member and Class of 2022 alum Reed Garzon shares, “Esports as a concept forces collaboration and delegation. You have to work within your role and understand that it is building toward a greater purpose that can not be achieved by one individual. This prepared me for college by influencing my understanding of group and team dynamics while also allowing me to hone my skills in specific fields. As a designer this is an invaluable skill as I will not be the person manufacturing many of the things I make, and yet I have to trust that my team will carry my vision throughout the entire process.” Reed is currently a student at University of South Carolina studying design with a double minor in product design and architecture.”

James Shanks, Class of 2022, reflects on his days on the team, “Being on the MV eSports team was such a worthwhile and enriching experience that taught me skills I’ve already found useful in college. I learned to manage my time effectively, balancing schoolwork with team practices, and to value tight communication and collaboration with my teammates to adapt where necessary. The competitive nature fostered a strong work ethic and resilience, qualities that have helped me succeed in life so far. I’m really nostalgic for those days with my team.” James is currently a junior at the University of Georgia, studying computer science. He has developed a passion for rock climbing and enjoys playing volleyball.

Former MV eSports coach Cooper Fiscus van Rossum gives us a rundown of the eSports State Championship Preview, highlighting MV as undefeated.