Esports, or electronic sports, has emerged as a competitive gaming platform that has gained significant popularity over the past few years. This dynamic field allows students to engage in multiplayer games both as teams and individuals, competing against fellow high school students nationwide. At OCSD, there are currently 18 students in grades 9 to 12 who hold an esports account.

Participating in esports offers students, especially those who may not excel in traditional athletics, an avenue to reap the numerous benefits associated with organized team sports. Through engagement in esports, students develop essential skills such as teamwork, communication, and problem-solving, which arise naturally from the competitive experience. Importantly, the esports program connects with a demographic of students that traditional sports may not adequately accommodate.

The esports team meets 2 to 3 times a week in the designated "Esports Lab," which is adjacent to the maintenance building and community cupboard. The High School Esports League (HSEL) organizes gaming competitions across three seasons: Fall, Winter, and Spring. Students have the opportunity to vote on the games and tournaments they wish to participate in, fostering a sense of ownership and enthusiasm. Generally, the structure consists of a two-week preseason, a six-week regular season, followed by playoff matches. Currently, students are actively competing in popular games such as Minecraft and Valorant.

To encourage academic accountability, students who are not passing a class are required to stay with that teacher during the 10th period before attending the lab. Additionally, if a student is failing two or more classes, coaches enforce a policy limiting their participation on game day, allowing only practice to ensure academic improvement. 

The OCSD esports team has made remarkable progress over the past few years. Coach Silkowski stands out as the winningest program in Oneida Esports history. The team achieved its first victory in Halo on January 31, 2023, defeating a team from Kansas. Furthermore, Oneida's Apex team showcased impressive skills by securing second place in the 23-24 Winter Blitz tournament. Individual accomplishments include Alex Bartlett, who was the East Regional Runner-up in Brawlhalla's consolation competition and advanced to the quarterfinals in the Spring 2023 "Champ" bracket.

The team is currently exploring opportunities to expand its reach by participating in a local league, specifically aiming to compete in Rocket League against other school districts in the area.

Students interested in joining the esports program should see either Coach Grossmann in the counseling office or Coach Silkowski in room 118 of the high school. To participate, students must complete a consent form requiring signatures from parents or guardians.