Benton Harbor Area Schools launching Esports lab

BENTON HARBOR, Mich. -- Benton Harbor Area Schools is now entering the world of competitive video gaming.

The district has announced the launch of a state-of-the-art Esports lab, with gaming now becoming an official part of the district’s athletics department.

The program looks to benefit students from a broad range of abilities and backgrounds as well as those who aren’t as interested in traditional school sports.

In addition, Esports opens up more scholarship opportunities as its popularity continues to grow at the collegiate level.

For the inaugural season, Benton Harbor Area Schools will compete against teams from across the state in games such as Rocket League, League of Legends, and Hearthstone.

The district has announced that a ribbon-cutting and grand opening ceremony for the Esports lab will take place at 870 Colfax Avenue on Tuesday at 4:30.