At Auburn Public Schools’ Central Office, a room of glowing screens and fast broadband hums with energy—the home of the eDawgs, Auburn’s esports team. Now in its third year, the program has doubled in size to about 30 students who compete in games like Rocket League, Super Smash Bros., Marvel Rivals, League of Legends, Fortnite, Overwatch, and Valorant.
“We’re three years into it now, and it keeps growing,” said coach Jeff LaPlant. “There’s excitement down here every single year.” Head coach Brian Maher agreed, adding, “When we started, we had maybe 15 kids. Now it’s double that.”
Senior Owen Mueller, who plays Rocket League, Valorant, and Marvel Rivals, is heading into his final playoffs with gratitude for more than just gaming. “It’s the people,” he said. “Because I’m homeschooled, this gives me a way to connect with others.”
