Not too long ago, I had the chance to sit down and interview the co-founder and CEO of the High School Esports League, Mason Mullenioux. We talked about the growth and spirit of the HSEL, and I have to say, I’m excited about this.

The HSEL is a league of inter-connected high schools across North America that do battle in esports. It’s something I genuinely wish could have existed when I was in high school. Instead of being bitter about what “could have been,” I’m more interested in the positives. How will this benefit up-and-coming esports players at the high school level? It could be a great recruitment ground for collegiate esports, and a way to bring students together in competition. Few things get people to bond like stiff competition, and where is competition more ferocious than esports?

Nowhere, that’s where! So, without further ado, here’s our interview with Mason Mullenioux of the High School Esports League! If you’d like more information about the HSEL, please click here.

Jason: What promoted this interesting partnership between GameWorks and HSEL?

Mason: HSEL is trying to level the playing field so that those without access to equipment can participate. Eventually, we want all students to have access to the proper equipment and environment needed to succeed in their esports careers. The partnership stems from inclusivity, and GameWorks provides that plus a safe hangout space, discounts and more.

Jason: One of the most important things I think facing parents of high school esports players are their studies. Is that why there will be designated times to practice at GameWorks facilities?

Mason: That is part of the reason, yes. HSEL also places a 2.5 GPA requirement on all participants and has a pipeline to connect with college recruiters. Eventually, we want these spots to become a hub for studying as well.

Jason: How will this partnership foster an emphasis on the player’s studies while also helping to improve their skills?

Mason: [It’s] All about the structured environment with time/screen management.

Jason: I’d like to also talk about the Winter Open. I read in the press release that even non-HSEL students will be able to take part. Is that going to be difficult to regulate?

Mason: Students must be with HSEL but are not required to be members of a school club. We have a separate verification process for “free agents.”

Jason: On that note, are you worried about players who opt to play at home using aimbots or other hacks to give themselves an advantage?

Mason: We employ anti-cheat software on games that require it. We also have a match dispute process that will review matches in question to help determine if a cheat or exploit is being used.

Jason: Do you see the move to allow non-HSEL school students to grow the awareness of the HSEL?

Mason: Yes, that is partially it. So, the main reason is inclusivity and providing as much opportunity to as many students as possible, but the underlying benefit of that means free agents bring it back to their school and start a club.

Jason: Is there a prize for winning the Winter Open? Could the HSEL lead to scholarships for esports programs in college?

Mason: Yes, we have medals, swag, and scholarships. We are also giving out a prize just for participating in 75% of your matches or higher, so you show up and you get an Xbox Game Pass. We also have a vast recruiter network that scouts our league, through this we have helped facilitate around $30m in scholarships.

Jason: Are there any plans for the High School Esports League to work with colleges to foster the growth of this young, up and coming talent?

Mason: Yes, that is a near-term goal of ours. We want the recruitment pipeline to be as easy and streamlined as possible. To that end, we are developing a way for recruiters to easily search and broadcast their programs.

Jason: Where do you see the High School Esports League going in 2020? Are there any potential esports titles not involved you would like to see added?

Mason: We predict 4x growth for 2020 in # of schools as well as opening some really cool ways to play, and additional value adds on the platform.

Jason: As a final question, what is your favorite esports title? Are there any you actively play in your downtime?

Mason: Right now, I am playing the new Modern Warfare. I don’t get to play as much as I’d like anymore, but usually, that’s where my free time goes.