Players on Penn Manor High School's e-sports team recently visited the state Capitol, where they were recognized for their achievements of the past year. On April 24, state Rep. Ismail Smith-Wade-El recognized the players on the floor of the House of Representatives.

Penn Manor High School's Rocket League team acquired first place in two tournaments this year: the Rocket League High School E-sports League State Championship in January and the Harrisburg University PA Cup in April. Nathan Mintzer, captain of the varsity Rocket League team, credited his team's success with effective strategizing and communication. "We tried to look at our opponents and find out what their weaknesses were," Mintzer said. "We also worked a lot on making sure we had a good bond as a team. Being more than just teammates and knowing each other as people were key components as well."

Penn Manor High School's other e-sports teams have seen a successful year as well; the school's Overwatch team climbed to the playoffs after an undefeated season. "We got to know each of our players and played around each of their strong suits," said Brock Kirstner, captain of the Overwatch team. "We had to evolve our strategy as well so we weren't sticking to the same approach every time."

Players on the Minecraft, League of Legends, Minecraft and Brawlhalla teams were among those recognized at the state Capitol. "Communication is a core piece of each team," said Scott Herzog, head coach of the e-sports program. "In Overwatch, it's about the map and positioning; in Rocket League, it's calling out where players are on the field. It's like any other sports you play, and the players learn important skills."

Penn Manor High School's e-sports program was created four years ago and began with the Overwatch team. Herzog and the other founding faculty of the program appeared in front of the school board multiple times to convey the benefits of introducing such a program. Due to the fact that e-sports programs in schools are a new concept, Herzog said that many stigmas still surround them. He added, however, that the merits of creating the program have been tremendous. "There's still a struggle in getting people to see e-sports as on the same level as other sports. There's no doubt in my mind the players are developing team skills and acquiring skills that will serve them well in life," Herzog said.

In addition to the skills students acquire as members of an e-sports team, Herzog said the program also benefits the students by incorporating the players in school culture. Many students who don't participate in other sports have been able to engage in school spirit as e-sports players.

Some students have even found opportunities for scholarships and career paths through the program. Mintzer, who is a senior, plans to attend Harrisburg University in the fall to study e-sports team management. If he makes the Rocket League team at Harrisburg University, he will receive a full ride scholarship. "I do believe all high schools should invest in an e-sports program," Mintzer said. "Getting students involved is really valuable to the whole community."