High schoolers competed for trophies and bragging rights, while industry experts shared career advice at the annual event.
The new wing of the Career and Technical Education Center hosted over 130 Frisco ISD gamers this month for the 2025 Esports Tournament and Symposium.
Students filled the brand-new, LED–lit esports class and surrounding rooms, going head to head in eight games for a chance to win trophies and bragging rights.
Everywhere you looked, competitors were locked in but having fun — just as the day was intended.
In the Valorant room, parent Ryan Manchee watched as his son, Grayson, competed. He said he was glad an event like this existed.
“I like that this is so social,” he said. “It gets the kids out with each other, playing as a team in person. It’s very cool.”
Down the hall, industry professionals talked about esports — including potential degree fields and job options — as students consider turning a passion into a career.
“A lot of times in esports we talk about being a player, but we want to show there’s more out there,” said Wes Dennis, Independence High School esports teacher and symposium host.
He joined panelists Salem Thyne of Esports Virtual Arena, Caleb Simmons of UNT Dallas Esports and John Davidson of the Esports Trade Association to discuss the diverse career opportunities students have.
As the sounds of gaming could be heard all around, organizers were already planning for next year.
“The future of the tournament is very bright,” said CTEC esports teacher David Loosli. “We’ll keep working with different partners in the esports industry to provide a more positive look into not just gaming, but opportunities for students outside of the classroom in the esports environment.”
Thank you to the sponsors of the esports tournament, including Steelseries, Valhallan, Esports Trade Association, EVA, UNT Dallas, Texas A&M University-San Antonio and Texas A&M University-Texarkana.