Forest High School and Hawkins Middle School are making history as the first schools in Scott County to offer a competitive Esports program, providing students with new opportunities in academics, leadership, and career exploration.
Through a partnership with Mississippi High School Activities Association and PlayVS, a statewide Esports competition platform, students compete against schools across Mississippi in popular video games such as Madden and Super Smash Bros. Ultimate. Since its launch, the program has quickly gained traction among middle schools, high schools, and colleges nationwide.
“Esports gives our students a chance to be competitive, develop teamwork skills, and build confidence in an area they are truly passionate about,” said Jacob McNeil, Forest High School’s Esports Coach. “We’ve seen tremendous growth in our players, both in their gaming skills and in their leadership.”
Each year, PlayVS hosts championship tournaments in the fall and spring at the University of Southern Mississippi, where top teams from across the state compete for the title of Mississippi’s best high school Esports team. Forest’s teams have embraced the challenge, gaining valuable experience and recognition along the way.
The growing success of the program has also created college opportunities for student athletes. Two senior Esports players are currently exploring postsecondary options at institutions with strong competitive gaming programs. Recently, Hinds Community College Esports coach Matt Ansley and four student players visited Forest High School to meet with students, discuss their program, and participate in friendly competition.
“Our goal is to help students see that Esports can open real doors for their future,” McNeil said. “Whether it’s scholarships, college recruitment, or careers in technology, this program gives them a head start.
” Forest Municipal School District Superintendent Dr. Melanie Nelson praised the program’s impact on student engagement and innovation.
“We are proud of our Esports program and the opportunities it provides for our students,” Nelson said. “This initiative reflects our commitment to meeting students where they are and preparing them for success in an ever-changing world.”
In addition, Pearl River Community College offers Esports scholarships for students interested in competing at the collegiate level, providing another pathway for Forest students to pursue higher education through gaming.
For students, the program has become more than just gaming—it has become a source of motivation and pride.
“Being on the Esports team has helped me stay focused and work harder in school,” said Tellis Pace, a Forest High School Esports player. “It’s exciting knowing that something I love could help me get into college and reach my goals.”
With the support of Forest Municipal School District’s superintendent and school board, the Esports coaching staff is actively working to expand the program at both the middle and high school levels. Efforts are also underway to strengthen partnerships with colleges and universities, ensuring students have access to future opportunities.
To further showcase student talent and promote transparency, the Esports program has launched a YouTube channel where full recordings of competitions are available for viewing by families and community members.
Forest’s Esports program reflects the district’s commitment to innovation and student engagement. By blending technology, teamwork, and academic growth, the program is preparing students for success both in and beyond the classroom.