Hemlock Public School District is proud to highlight the continued growth of esports at Hemlock High School, where students are finding new ways to compete, connect, and build future ready skills through organized team play. The district officially launched its high school esports team in February 2026, building on facility development that began in 2025 with a dedicated esports room and training space in the Alumni Room.
Led by Hemlock alumnus Nick Prezzato, the program gives students the opportunity to represent the Huskie Pack in a structured competitive setting while learning lessons that extend far beyond the screen. According to district announcements, Hemlock students compete through PlayVS, a national scholastic esports platform, and the district has said the team will participate in nine different esports titles.
Hemlock leaders say the program is about more than gaming. District communications have emphasized that esports supports teamwork, communication, strategic thinking, problem solving, leadership, resilience, time management, accountability, and exploration of college and career pathways in STEM and technology related fields.
The new esports environment at Hemlock High School reflects that vision. With high performance gaming stations and console based competition areas, students have access to a dedicated space designed for both training and competition. Earlier district announcements said the esports room would feature 12 esports computers, four Nintendo Switches, and four PlayStation 5 consoles.
“Esports is another example of how we are working to meet students where they are and create meaningful opportunities for them to belong, grow, and succeed,” said Denise Dowdell, Director of Business Operations and Human Resources. “This program is not simply about competition. It is about creating a place where students can sharpen communication skills, practice discipline, build confidence, and discover pathways connected to technology, teamwork, and the future workforce.”
Keith Green, Principal of Hemlock High School, said the program is a strong fit for the school’s commitment to innovation and student engagement.
“At Hemlock High School, we want students to know there is a place for them here,” said Green. “Esports opens another door for students to be involved, to represent their school with pride, and to develop real world skills through something they are passionate about. We are excited about what this means for our students today and where it can lead them tomorrow.”
As head coach, Prezzato brings both local pride and a student centered approach to the program. In the district’s launch announcement, he said the goal is to create an environment where students grow as competitors, teammates, and leaders.
Hemlock Public School District continues to invest in innovative opportunities that reflect student interests while preparing them for life after graduation. School officials have framed esports as part of a broader effort to expand access to meaningful programming in STEM, technology, and emerging career fields.
For Hemlock students, esports is not just a game. It is another way to learn, lead, and represent the Huskie Pack.