As scholastic esports continues to expand on an international level, the Missouri Scholastic Esports Federation remains a local resource for schools and students in our state. The educator-led non-profit organization offers both competition and learning opportunities at little to no cost to participating schools, and provides community for coaches and students alike.
The 2021-22 school year has been another year of growth for MOSEF. The fall season started with nearly double the number of schools from the fall of 2020, and culminated in the organization’s first live, in-person finals in November. Eight schools competed for the Rocket League title at St. Louis Science Center (MOSEF Rocket League Event Recap); one week later, the Overwatch championship featured four schools at Stephens College in Columbia. Over 200 spectators came out to watch the students showcase their skills, with over 100 more watching online.
In addition to matches and tournaments, MOSEF has also expanded into contests rooted in career and technical education. In December, they launched the Esports CTE Challenges, a series of ten industry-based scenarios in career fields that include networking, programming, graphic design, and health and wellness. The challenges are due twice a month from January through May; prizes include a spotlight on the students’ work and opportunities for review with professionals in related positions.
Looking forward to the spring season, MOSEF’s growth continues to accelerate. The number of schools registered to compete has increased nearly 30% over the fall season, and almost 225% over the spring of 2021. Over 100 schools are now in some stage of developing an esports program with MOSEF, and more are joining every week.
Ever-aware of the wide gap in digital equity across the state, MOSEF is actively working to provide support to schools struggling with the funding needed to purchase equipment for an esports lab. Students will see increased benefits from this arm of MOSEF’s mission beginning this spring.
For more information on bringing esports to your school, or to get involved in supporting MOSEF’s programs, please visit https://www.mosef.org/.