Community Education - Rochester, Minnesota

John Marshall Esports: Building Community and Career Pathways through Team-based Competition

Compete Against Other Schools

John Marshall is a member of the Minnesota Varsity League and competes online against high schools across Minnesota. We will participate in the team-based, rocket-powered car soccer game Rocket League, played in person on John Marshall computers. Students also have the opportunity to compete in speed chess and Fortnite using their own devices. We plan to add additional games based on student interest. Students do not necessarily need to compete to be part of the team. As production team members, students can support the competitive teams by developing graphic design, business, and tech skills.

Requirements

Members of John Marshall Esports must uphold the same respect, sportsmanship, and professionalism that is expected of all athletes at John Marshall High School.

Students must be in grades 8-12 AND must be over the age of 13.

Students must attend John Marshall High School or live in the JM attendance area. This includes many students who attend Dakota Middle School, John Adams Middle School, ALC, or are homeschooled.

Students must meet all Minnesota Varsity League requirements, including maintaining a 2.0 GPA.

There are limited openings for varsity and junior varsity teams. Please note that this application to become a JM Esports team member does not guarantee placement on a varsity or JV team. There are year round opportunities for all members to practice, scrimmage, and be on a production team.

What is Rocket League? Rocket League is one of the most popular esports played by high schools in Minnesota. The rules are simple: each player drives a rocket-powered car and tries to shoot a giant soccer ball into the opposing team's net. Skilled players are able to perform aerial maneuvers, flying the ball across the field. Rocket League is rated E for Everyone.

What is needed to participate? Personal Epic Games account (for playing Rocket League), personal Discord account (for team communication). 

Where does the team play? In-person at John Marshall. Laptops and controllers are provided.

What is Fortnite? Fortnite is a popular battle royale game featuring a unique blend of combat, building, and exploration. Fortnite is rated T for Teen.

What is needed to participate? Personal device and internet connection, personal Epic Games account (for playing Fortnite online), personal Discord account (for team communication).

Where does the team play? At home. Devices are not provided.

What is Chess in the Minnesota Varsity League? Student play games through Chess.com in a "blitz" format with only 5 minutes on the clock for each player.

What is needed to participate? Personal device and internet connection, personal Chess.com account (for playing Chess online), personal Discord account (for team communication)

Where do students play? Anywhere they can bring a smartphone with internet. Devices are not provided.

John Marshall is a 21st Century Learning Center

John Marshall is grateful for the support of our community in providing high quality programs outside of school hours.

This program is partially funded with a grant from the Minnesota Department of Education (MDE) using federal funding, CFDA84.287, 21st Century Community Learning Centers. This program does not necessarily represent the policy of the federal Department of Education or MDE and you should not assume endorsement by the federal or state government.

Data Privacy Notice

The Rochester Public Schools District must collect participant information and track their participation in programs and activities. Collecting this information is part of a larger effort to improve the understanding of effective programs and activities. The District intends to use the data to evaluate its programs and to improve the quality and availability of programs that support young people and their families in Rochester and Minnesota.

Learn More