Challenge
Esports have many social-emotional benefits for students. There is, however, inequitable access to those benefits. PC and console gamers are split down racial and socioeconomic lines. Racism, sexism, and gate-keeping prevent or push out many competitors. Esports are even exploding at the college level: more than 200 schools offer scholarships to gamers and courses are offered in everything from game design to esports management. While there is a real future in gaming for students, the toxic culture prohibits girls and students of color from participation. Middle school students are primed to learn empathy, equity, and global-mindedness with gaming as a vehicle. Additionally, these gamers could change the trajectory of esports to become more inclusive if only there was a league for them to play.