Over the weekend it was great to have students represent Otago Girls' at the Yrless+ Southern Rocket Masters. This competition saw 27 teams across the nation gather in Invercargill at the ILT Stadium to take on other teams at Rocket League, a 3 on 3 car football game. Though only one student managed to make the trip and stay overnight in Invercargill, I am sure we will see this game grow as we build more capacity for our ākonga to experience high end collaborative video gaming. Lilly Trickey who participated teamed up with Ameila Brusse and Caspar Brusse to make the team the BBQ’d Axolotls.

The team had a tough draw losing their first match 2 games to 0 against James Hargest on the main stage with the commentator meaning they quickly had to rethink their strategy. Though the whole crowd didn’t get to watch their next two matches against the Immortals (a combination of Aurora College and Southland Boys') and the Bois (from Southland Boys') the team improved heaps throughout the day and were proud not to finish in last place.

Kings High School finished eventual champions lifting the impressive trophy.

We certainly have eyes on that for the trophy cabinet at Otago Girls' and will continue to offer opportunities in esports to allow students pathways into the both the esports and IT sector, not to mention building on important communication and social skills while having fun in game.

Video stream of the full comp and a brief video of Lilly actually playing and being commented on.

Current opportunities for ākonga

Monday Lunch: League of Legends practice

Tuesday Lunch: Valorant Practice

Tuesday After School 4-5: National Valorant scrims for Gender diverse and Wahine, organised with support of the Digital Natives Academy (DNA) and the New Zealand Esports Federation (NZEF) Women's Subcommittee.

Thursday After School: 4-5:30: League of Legends Regional Tournament. Two teams are fully signed up, but there is room for newbies to play and be coached.

All in D44/D45 the Innovation hub.

Keep an eye out for further opportunities in the notices.