A+ Charter School Receives a Surprise Visit from Mayor Price

Published on September 16, 2021

A diverse group of smiling teens and adults pose together in a well-lit room, surrounded by banners related to esports and schools. The mood is upbeat and friendly.

Maricopa Esports teamed up with A+ Charter Schools to conduct an afterschool esports league on its campus. Veteran coaches set up lesson plans and conducted practices and drills for the eager students in titles such as Pokémon Unite and Super Smash Bros. Ultimate. The league wrapped up with an end-of- season tournament with more than 20 participants battling to be crowned champion.

The tournament kicked off with a visit from Mayor Christian Price, who was there not only to meet and greet participants but to compete as well in a friendly "coaches versus students" showdown.

"There are so many kids that don't or won't participate in traditional sports programs, so offering a dedicated esports program proves that our city is truly all-encompassing when it comes to recreational activities," said Mayor Price. "There is so much interest in esports at a young age and our schools have been very open to hosting us and their students are responding."

A group of young people and a coach enthusiastically play video games together in a brightly lit room. They seem focused and excited, surrounded by decor and flags.