Fielding’s Future-Ready Fund Initiative

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Fielding Offers their Support in the Launch of Trenton High School’s New Esports Initiative

Fielding International, known for our commitment to innovative educational solutions, has made a significant contribution to Trenton High School in Trenton, Michigan, by donating over $2,600 worth of essential equipment to launch the school’s first-ever Esports program. This donation aligns with our B Corp mission, focusing on social impact and educational equity.

Pictured: The Fielding team visits Trenton High School to meet the Esports team and observe competitive matches.

The Power of Esports in the Future of Education

Esports is rapidly emerging as a transformative educational tool that offers students more than just a platform for gaming. It’s an arena where they can develop critical skills such as teamwork, leadership, problem-solving, and communication. With Fielding’s support, the Trenton High School Esports team has now been equipped with the necessary tools to participate.

 

""Being a part of the esports team helps me get through the day because I have something to look forward to after school. Some of the skills I've learned are communication and teamwork—trying to work through problems with other people."
Brian W.
Trenton High School
Junior

Fielding’s contribution included high-performance gaming consoles, controllers, competitive games, and the required hardware to operate. This array of equipment ensures that every student on the team could participate and play their game of choice during the Spring 2024 season. These resources will serve the students of Trenton Public Schools for many years, fostering a new generation of tech-savvy, digitally literate individuals who are often underrepresented.

“By participating in esports, our students are gaining valuable skills for the digital age while creating a more inclusive school environment."
Ryan Ferrante
Trenton High School
Library Media Specialist

A Platform for Inclusivity & Collaboration

Fielding International’s support for the Esports program at Trenton High goes beyond just providing equipment; it’s about fostering an inclusive environment where students of all grade levels and genders can compete on an equal playing field. Esports transcends traditional barriers, offering a unique space where students who might not participate in other extracurricular activities can engage and excel. In fact, 45% of students involved in esports haven’t participated in any other school sport or activity, making this program an enticing opportunity to engage students who might not otherwise find their place in traditional school activities. The program’s inclusivity is further enhanced by the use of assistive technologies, ensuring that students with disabilities can fully participate and compete alongside their peers.

The diversity of interest among students is one of the key strengths of the Esports team. Whether a student is drawn to the strategic aspects of gaming, the technical side of equipment management, or the thrill of competition, there is a place for them on the team. This diversity fosters a collaborative environment where students can learn from each other and grow together.

Preparing Students for Future Success

The benefits of Esports extend beyond high school. The rapidly growing Esports industry offers numerous career paths, from game development and digital marketing to streaming and content creation. Through participation in Trenton High’s Esports program, students can gain valuable experience that could lead to college scholarships and careers in the digital economy. Last year, the National Association of Collegiate Esports (NACE) awarded $16 million in scholarships, highlighting the significant opportunities available to students involved in Esports.

"After high school I'm going to [Eastern Michigan University] and majoring Early Childhood Education. Aside from that, knowing how competitive esports is at EMU, I would definitely like to join since they have a very good program."
Maya S.
Trenton High School
Senior

A Lasting Legacy

Our Fielding team had the privilege of visiting Trenton High School and its Esports team, an experience that was mutually rewarding. For the students, it was an opportunity to be cheered on and inspired to reach new heights. For us at Fielding, it was a chance to observe their interactions, hear their perspectives, and witness the joy they find in learning.

Pictured: Fielding employees root on Trenton High School esports team members, Prince, Aidan, and Brian, during a competitive match.

 

Ryan Ferrante, Trenton High School’s Library Media Specialist and leader of the Esports initiative, expressed deep gratitude for Fielding International’s support. “The future of the THS Esports team is bright because of your support,” Ferrante said. “We will always be grateful to Fielding International for the help you provided to get our team started.”

Fielding International’s donation not only launched the Esports program but also established a foundation for long-term success and growth. 

"Without this equipment [provided by Fielding], none of this would've ever happened."
Aidan M.
Trenton High School
Senior

As Trenton High School prepared for its Spring 2024 debut, the team—consisting of 8 male and 3 female students from various grades—were equipped with the skills and confidence to thrive and proudly represent their school.

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