Just six years ago, the Ben Davis esports scene was a small club called the “Gamers Guild.”

A teacher saw how much the students connected through video games and started this after-school group. He believed that esports, or competitive gaming, is about strategy, teamwork, and dedication, just like other sports. He wanted students to compete in popular games like Valorant, Overwatch, Fortnite, and more.

Enter Trevor Smth.

Smith joined the Gamers Guild early on. He had always enjoyed gaming but never saw it as a sport. With the help of passionate coaches, he learned about teamwork and communication.

Smith discovered how important it was to work closely with his teammates.

The club quickly grew into a full-fledged esports team that competed against other high schools in Indiana. Smith has built a program that helped students find their place and develop their skills.

“This is a safe place for a lot of students,” Smith said. “It has really grown over the years.”

Last yearSmith took a group of students to Ball State for the esports first state championships. They will return again this year on April 26 for a full day of competition against the best players in the state.

Smith wanted to prepare students for the growing opportunities in college esports. He noticed that many colleges were offering scholarships to talented players. He aimed to help his students be ready for these changes.

At last years state finals, Smith stood with his team in brand-new jerseys. Smith felt his team had made a difference.

Smith is excited about this year’s state finals.

“I think state is a lot of fun,” he said. “The kids get to meet people from all over the state. It is a long, busy day but it is fun.”

So esports is more than just a club that plays sports video games. It is a group that has grown over the past six years that works hard and is dedicated to their sport.