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Pipestone Area Schools esports team celebrates inaugural season, three students qualify for state
Summary
Coach Neil Ransby told the Pipestone Area School District board that 17 students joined the district’s first esports season and three qualified for the state tournament; students described increased belonging and improved attendance tied to the program.
The Pipestone Area School District on Tuesday heard an upbeat presentation from esports coach Neil Ransby about the program’s first season and its student impact. Ransby said 17 students competed this year against more than 120 Minnesota schools and that Bradley Emery III, Ethan Davis and Chevy Mitchell qualified for the state tournament in Saint Cloud on March 13–14.
"This program isn't just about playing games, it's about giving students a place to belong," Ransby said, adding that students improved class attendance to remain eligible for competition. Several players told the board the team helped them feel included: "Being on the esports team helps me feel more involved in school life," said Grayson Foster, a ninth grader.
Board members asked about season structure, practice schedules and equipment. Ransby said the regular season runs from October through mid-February, with state qualifiers practicing into March. He noted equipment limits this year — five computers for 17 students — and thanked community sponsors and donations that expanded capacity.
The board recognized the team and discussed a possible school send-off. Ransby said the state tournament will be held at St. Cloud State University and that the team plans a school send-off prior to departing in March.
