Founded in 2021–2022, Schaumburg’s Esports program has quickly grown from a new opportunity into a thriving team that now competes at a high level in both the MSL Conference and the Illinois High School Association (IHSA).
The program originally grew out of Schaumburg’s existing Gaming Club when a group of students expressed interest in competing in Rocket League. Around the same time, the IHSA officially recognized esports, giving the school the opportunity to turn that interest into a legitimate competitive program. Since the Gaming Club sponsor was already involved and a gamer himself, it was a natural transition to build and organize an official esports team.
The team is currently in the middle of its season, competing in the MSL while also preparing for the IHSA Sectionals in April. Sectionals serve as the qualifier for the State Finals, which take place later in the month. Matches played now help refine communication, consistency, and overall performance ahead of postseason competition.
This season has brought new challenges and opportunities. Several key players graduated last year, which shifted the team dynamic and opened the door for new competitors to step into leadership roles. As a result, the program has seen a strong increase in dedication and commitment. Many students have been practicing outside of school on their own time, leading to noticeable improvements in communication, teamwork, and overall performance.
Practices are held once a week from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m., giving players structured time to prepare while also encouraging independent practice. The team will continue competing in the MSL Conference this year, with no plans to add new game titles for the current season.
The program competes in Rocket League, Super Smash Bros, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, and FIFA. Each title requires a different skill set. Rocket League emphasizes positioning and teamwork. Super Smash Bros focuses on individual skill and knowing how to adapt to different opponents, with Crew Battles adding a strategic team component. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe rewards consistency and knowing when to use items effectively, while FIFA tests technical control and in-game decision-making.
Schaumburg has already earned notable accomplishments this season. The team placed 1st in Sectionals for Super Smash Bros. Individual competition and went on to earn 4th place at State Finals. In EA Sports FC Individual competition, the team earned 2nd place at Sectionals. One of the most memorable moments in program history came during the 2022–2023 season, when the Super Smash Bros. Crew Battle team went undefeated and captured 1st place at State.
Beyond competition, the Esports program has created a space where students can connect over shared interests, build leadership skills, and represent Schaumburg in a rapidly growing activity recognized across the state. As part of IHSA competition, players are held to the same academic and eligibility standards as other athletic programs, reinforcing the program’s commitment to both competitive excellence and student success.