Less than a quarter of the esports roster is female.
Traditionally, a male-dominated sport, seven esports women are breaking glass ceilings and encouraging others to do the same.
In her second year of esports, Anna Maloney has enjoyed many positive experiences and welcomes anyone wanting to participate to sign up.
“If they are thinking of joining, they should; you aren’t required to buy anything; the school provides the computers and switches,” Maloney said. “You can buy your own jersey with your name or username on it, but if not, Mr. Carper has some you can borrow.”
Maloney recalls her experience in the 2023-2024 esports season.
“Last year, I was the only girl, but this year there are more,” Maloney said. “This increase makes the environment better for me because, depending on my mood, I could want to talk to someone feminine or masculine, and having both types of people makes it way more fun.”
She also adds how some may view esports as a solely male hobby.
“Video games are sometimes seen as a boy thing, but anyone can play and enjoy them, no matter what,” Maloney said.
Another player who also shares this sentiment is freshman Aaliyah Wright-Borel.
“I love that we girls are included because it is a huge stereotype that girls hate gaming and that we suck at it, but some of us are good and love playing video games,” Wright-Borel said.
Junior Cat Whittaker thinks diversity, representation, and equality in esports are important.
“There was a majority of males for the longest time, but we have had a lot of girls and others join this year, which is important to diversify esports,” Whittaker said.
Freshman Kaylee Peterson wanted to be a part of a team and to socialize with her peers, so she joined Esports.
“I wanted to spend time with friends,” Peterson said.
These friendships ended up being players’ most memorable takeaway from esports.
“My favorite part has been making new friends,” Maloney said.
“My favorite part of esports was MK (Mario Kart) season, as varsity was wonderful,” Peterson said. “I even made a new friend.”
These fun and memorable seasons have encouraged current members to rejoin esports next year.
“I plan on doing it again next year because I enjoyed it,” Wright-Borel said. “It gave me an activity to do after school and something to laugh about with friends.”
