Category

Schools

Sep 01
Love0

Australian Esports League and Australian Open Launch the 2026 Block Buster Tennis Challenge

By Minecraft, Schools

The Australian Esports League and the Australian Open have officially opened registrations for the 2026 AO Schools Block Buster Tennis Challenge. This national educational initiative leverages the immersive environment of Minecraft Education to engage students in critical STEM capabilities, architectural design, and environmental sustainability.

The programme offers a highly practical opportunity to drive interactive, project-based learning within an internationally recognised sporting context. By participating, schools can integrate real-world problem-solving into their classrooms while students compete for a share of a national prize pool valued at over $25,000.

Programme Highlights

  • Curriculum Aligned: Challenge modules map directly to national HASS, Science, Design, and Digital Technologies curriculums across Years 4 to 12.
  • Real-World Problem Solving: Students will tackle scalable design projects, ranging from creating sustainable green fan zones to reimagining the entire Australian Open precinct as a technological and environmental leader.
  • Major Incentives: The prize pool includes full travel and accommodation packages to the Australian Open finals weekend in Melbourne, VIP on-court presentations, and premium technology bundles from AGON by AOC and HyperX.

Challenge Categories

Educators can register teams of three to five students across three age-specific tiers:

  • Years 4 to 6: Green Game Day. Students design a sustainable fan day precinct that reduces environmental impact while maximising visitor enjoyment.
  • Years 7 to 9: Smart & Sustainable Precincts. Students connect venues and public spaces using smart technology, renewable infrastructure, and inclusive design principles.
  • Years 10 to 12: The Future Grand Slam. Students take a whole-of-event view to reimagine the energy systems, infrastructure, and fan experience of the Australian Open as the world’s most sustainable Grand Slam.

Important Dates and Registration

Registrations for the 2026 programme close 28th September 2026.

We equip all participating educators with comprehensive support materials, including detailed lesson modules, assessment rubrics, and technical guides. To register your teams and download the official Educator Handbook, please visit the key information hub at www.ael.org.au/aochallenge2026.

Jul 20
Love0

Term 3 School Esports Starting Soon

By News, Schools

Calling all high schools! Registrations for Term 3 of the Australian Esports League’s High School Esports program close 27th July!

The next term of competition is coming, and the Australian Esports League is ready to roll out another massive schedule of competitive gaming for students across Australia. Whether your school is looking to field an official team, or support individual student drivers, there is a place for everyone in Term 3.

Here is everything you need to know about what is coming up and how to lock in your spots.

AEL School Esports (Term 3)

Our core inter-school competition returns to give high school students the opportunity to represent their school in a structured, safe, and competitive environment. Build teamwork, communication, and sportsmanship on the national stage.

  • Registration Deadline: Monday, 27th July
  • Who Can Join: High schools nationwide
  • Format: Multi-week structured competition across flagship titles including VALORANT, Minecraft (Capture the Flag), Marvel Rivals, Super Smash and Rocket League
  • How to Join: School coordinators must register teams directly with the AEL and complete participation fee payments.

Visit the AEL School League landing page for more information: https://ael.org.au/school/league/

AEL Virtual Grand Prix

Starts: Saturday, 8th August

Get ready to hit the track! The AEL Virtual Grand Prix is returning for another high-octane season. This competition is open directly to student drivers across Australia, offering a national platform to showcase their sim-racing talent.

  • Registration Deadline: Wednesday, 5th August
  • Key Information for Families: This is a parent-funded, direct-entry event. While schools are encouraged to share the opportunity with their community, parents register and manage their child’s entry directly.
  • Format: Competitive virtual racing divisions with live leaderboards and officiating.
  • Requirements: Compatible racing setup and platform access (full details on the registration page).

Visit the AEL Virtual Grand Prix landing page for more information: https://ael.org.au/virtualgrandprix/

Questions or Assistance?

If you are a teacher looking to set up an esports program at your school, or a parent needing assistance with individual registration, the AEL team is here to help. Reach out to us via schools@ael.org.au and our support staff will get back to you at their soonest availability.

Why Get Involved?

Esports is about far more than just gaming—it is a platform for developing critical skills in strategic thinking, resilience, collaboration, and digital communication. Through AEL events, students build school pride, connect with peers across the country, and learn to thrive in structured, competitive environments underpinned by good sportsmanship.

Participating in a nationally recognised AEL competition ensures your school is backed by a professional framework that puts student wellbeing, digital citizenship, and online safety first.

To help celebrate your school’s involvement, participating schools also receive media assets to showcase student achievements, driving school spirit and highlighting your commitment to innovative extracurricular opportunities.

A Safe and Monitored Environment

Student safety and digital wellbeing are our highest priorities.

All AEL competitions are conducted within restricted, monitored digital environments tailored to each event type. Access is strictly limited to registered participants and verified educators, with active oversight and robust moderation standards maintained across all platforms to ensure a secure, respectful, and positive experience for every student.

We look forward to seeing your school compete in Term 3!

Jun 26
Love2

Announcing the Winners of the 2026 AEL Schools Minecraft Build Challenge Series 1

By Minecraft, News, Schools

The AEL Schools Minecraft Build Challenge Series 1 united students from across Australia in the creation of remarkable worlds and imaginative designs. Participants were challenged to explore one of three distinct categories, each designed to develop creativity, problem-solving, and collaboration skills while encouraging the design of communities inspired by the themes of Ancient Echoes: Dreamtime Stories (Years 4 to 6), Ancient Echoes: Medieval Marvels (Years 7 to 9), and Engineering Failure Analysis: Structure Collapse (Years 10 to 12).

Students showcased not only exceptional technical skill and creativity, but also thoughtful consideration of how Minecraft can be used to inspire imagination, promote inclusivity, and encourage innovative solutions for a sustainable future.

Each winning team will be awarded a school trophy in recognition of their outstanding achievement, dedication, and creativity. These impressive creations will also be featured on the results page, where visitors can explore images of every submission.

2026 AEL Series 1 Minecraft Challenge Results

Congratulations to Our Winners!

Following extensive review and discussion, our judging panel has selected the highest-performing builds in each category, recognising the teams that demonstrated exceptional creativity, innovation, and attention to detail. We are delighted to celebrate the imagination, dedication, and enthusiasm shown by all students who took part.

Congratulations to our winners, and to every participant who contributed their ideas and talents to make this challenge a success.

Winners for Ancient Echoes – Dreamtime Stories (Years 4-6):

  • 1st Place Winner: Ulladulla Public School (Soulsand Architects) The team beautifully depicted three Dreamtime stories, utilizing advanced redstone and command blocks to bring dynamic motion to The Rainbow Serpent, Tiddalik the Frog Flooding the Land, and Nowra the Black Cockatoo flying through the Volcano.
  • 2nd Place Winner: St Rita’s College (The Serpents)
  • 3rd Place Winner: Coburg West Primary School (West Coburg Whales)
  • 3rd Place Winner: Kariong Public School (The Minecraft Builders)
1st Place
Ulladulla Public School – Soulsand Architects
2nd Place
St Rita’s College – The Serpents
3rd Place
Coburg West Primary School – West Coburg Whales
3rd Place
Kariong Public School – The Minecraft Builders

Winners for Ancient Echoes – Medieval Marvels (Years 7-9):

  • 1st Place Winner: Croydon Community School (Thor’s Hammer & Nail) Students constructed a highly detailed map titled ‘Thor’s Hammer’, masterfully showcasing the historical technologies and survival solutions used in 970 to 980 AD Scandinavia to endure enemy raids and the harsh winter environment.
  • 2nd Place Winner: Mount Clear College (Armed and Dangerous)
  • 3rd Place Winner: Salvado Catholic College (Salvado Medieval Marvels)
  • 3rd Place Winner: Sydney Technical High School (The Abhi Architects)
1st Place
Croydon Community School – Thor’s Hammer & Nail
2nd Place
Mount Clear College – Armed and Dangerous
3rd Place
Salvado Catholic College – Salvado Medievel Marvels
3rd Place
Sydney Technical High School – The Abhi Architects

Winners for Engineering Failure Analysis – Structure Collapse (Years 10-12):

  • 1st Place Winner: Nagle College (Nagle College Team 1) The team delivered a brilliant historical engineering analysis by recreating the Chernobyl site, incorporating sophisticated redstone wiring and complex command blocks to accurately simulate the physics and progression of the reactor meltdown.
  • 2nd Place Winner: St Aloysius College (RMS Aloysius)
  • 3rd Place Winner: Melba Copland Secondary School – Senior Campus (Voxelaris)
1st Place
Nagle College – Nagle College Team 1
2nd Place
St Aloysius College – RMS Aloysius
3rd Place
Melba Copland Secondary School – Senior Campus – Voxelaris

 

Thank You

We would like to sincerely thank all students, parents, and teachers who participated in and supported Series 1 of the 2026 AEL Schools Minecraft Build Challenge. We also extend our gratitude to the Minecraft Education and Microsoft teams for their ongoing partnership and support in helping AEL deliver this event through such an engaging and innovative platform.

The enthusiasm, creativity, and commitment demonstrated by students throughout the challenge have made this event an outstanding success. We look forward to welcoming participants back for future competitions and continuing to provide exciting opportunities for students to showcase their talents, collaborate with others, and bring their ideas to life.

Congratulations to participants and our winners for Series 1!

The Australian Esports League is sponsored by AGON by AOC the gaming monitor partner, HyperX Australia the peripheral partner, Officeworks the retail partner and Indomie Australia the noodle partner.

Jun 12
Love0

AEL to Host Premier Inclusive Esports Tournament and Career Seminar in Bairnsdale

By News, Schools

Regional Victoria’s digital sports landscape is set for a major expansion next week with the launch of the 2026 Gippsland Esports Competition. Running from Thursday 19th June to Monday 22nd June, the multi-day event will bring inclusive, high-level competitive gaming and structural industry education to the heart of East Gippsland.

Delivered in partnership by the Esports Collective and the Australian Esports League (AEL), with official support from Esports Australia and the Victoria State Government, the tournament will activate a newly approved regional footprint at the Esports Collective headquarters, located at 58 Macleod Street, Bairnsdale.

Supported by funding from the Victorian Government, the entire program is completely free to attend for schools, competitors, and the general community. The initiative prioritises grassroots participation, regional youth engagement, and a comprehensive commitment to accessible sports infrastructure.

The event structure covers three distinct operational activations:

  • Primary School Cup (Thursday 19th June): Junior student teams will represent their schools in structured, team-based brackets featuring Mario Kart World and EA Sports FC 26.
  • Community Day & Industry Pathways Seminar (Saturday 20th June): An all-ages public open day featuring casual tournament brackets in Super Smash Bros, Mario Kart World, EA Sports FC 26, and a dedicated F1 25 Fastest Lap Challenge. Concurrently, the AEL production crew will deliver presentation-style career seminars.
  • High School Cup (Monday 22nd June): Secondary school squads will face off in F1 25, Mario Kart World, and Super Smash Bros, competing for official AEL championship podium medals.

A core mandate of the 2026 competition is its comprehensive All Abilities framework. To ensure a completely level playing field, the arena floor has been fully equipped with specialised adaptive gaming hardware, including Xbox Adaptive Controllers and Logitech Adaptive Kits.

Furthermore, tournament administrators are implementing a structured player grading and handicap classification protocol. This allows real-time adjustments to be made during player briefings, ensuring balanced, equitable, and highly competitive matches for participants of all physical and cognitive capabilities.

In addition to traditional tournament brackets, Saturday’s layout introduces an institutional focus on regional workforce development. The newly structured Esports Industry Pathways Seminars will run as 60-minute presentation-style masterclasses (featuring a 45-minute walkthrough and a 15-minute open Q&A). Senior AEL technical staff will pull back the curtain on the digital economy, demonstrating the exact live broadcast mixing, tournament refereeing software, and venue power logistics required to execute major national events.

All competitive modules and school brackets will operate strictly under the Victorian Government’s Fair Play Code, reinforcing integrity, safety, and mutual respect across the entire digital sports ecosystem.

While entry across all divisions is free, player caps remain strictly enforced to ensure operational quality on the floor. Regional schools, individual competitors, and families can view the full daily schedules and secure their registration spots directly via the official event portal.

Find out more at www.ael.org.au/gippsland2026

The AEL is proudly sponsored by:

AGON by AOC the gaming monitor partner

Indomie Australia the noodle partner

HyperX the gaming peripherals partner

Officeworks a retail partner

Apr 26
Love0

Term 1 Champions Crowned in the AEL School League

By News, Schools

The AEL School League has wrapped up an action‑packed Term 1, with students from across Australia showcasing their skill, teamwork and competitive spirit across multiple esports titles.

From intense one‑on‑one matchups to coordinated squad play, the opening term delivered standout performances across Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, Marvel Rivals, Rocket League and Minecraft Capture the Flag, setting the benchmark for the 2026 season.

Super Smash Bros. Ultimate

The Smash Bros. competition featured strong individual performances across two divisions.

Division 1

  • 🥇 Flare – Oakleigh Grammar
  • 🥈 Chwomper – Villanova College
  • 🥉 yabadadoo – Concordia Lutheran College

Division 2

  • 🥇 Gao – Oakleigh Grammar
  • 🥈 BarryTV – Gorokan High School
  • 🥉 Adopte – Oakleigh Grammar

Oakleigh Grammar enjoyed a particularly successful term, securing multiple podium finishes across both divisions.

Marvel Rivals

The Marvel Rivals competition delivered a tightly contested main bracket, with school teams demonstrating strategic depth and consistency throughout the term.

Main Bracket

  • 🥇 St Peter’s Lutheran College
  • 🥈 MacKillop Catholic College
  • 🥉 Trinity College Queensland

Consolation Bracket

  • 🥇 Brisbane School of Distance Education
  • 🥈 Phoenix P–12 Community College

Rocket League

Rocket League saw high‑intensity matches and several undefeated runs across three divisions.

Division 1

  • 🥇 Phoenix P–12 Community College (undefeated)
  • 🥈 Ashdale Secondary College
  • 🥉 Launceston College

Division 2

  • 🥇 Drouin Secondary College (Squad 1)
  • 🥈 Geelong Lutheran College – Armstrong Creek
  • 🥉 Drouin Secondary College (Squad 2)

Division 3

  • 🥇 St Andrew’s Anglican College, Cairns
  • 🥈 St Andrew’s Anglican College, Cairns
  • 🥉 Bishop Druitt College

Minecraft Capture the Flag

Teamwork was on full display in Minecraft CTF, with squads battling it out for podium positions.

Main Bracket

  • 🥇 Ashdale Secondary College
  • 🥈 St Peter’s Lutheran College
  • 🥉 Phoenix P–12 Community College

Consolation Bracket

  • 🥇 Trinity Anglican College
  • 🥈 Our Lady of the Sacred Heart College, Kensington

All results and full standings from Term 1 are available at www.ael.org.au/hs-standings.

The AEL School League continues to grow as a platform for students to compete, collaborate and develop digital and esports skills in a structured school‑based environment.

The AEL proudly thanks its sponsors AGON by AOC, HyperX, Officeworks and Indomie Australia for their ongoing support of school esports programs across the country.

Registrations Now Open for Term 2

Registrations for Term 2 of the AEL School League are now open, with entries closing on May 11.

Schools can find more information and register at:
👉 www.ael.org.au/school/league

Apr 23
Love0

Victorian Students Hit the Podium at Inaugural AEL Virtual Grand Prix

By News, Schools

The first-ever AEL Virtual Grand Prix (VGP) Victorian Students Competition has crowned its champions, capping off an electrifying race activation at the Melbourne Grand Prix Innovation Hub that drew thousands of student spectators across the day.

The AEL race stop was a hive of activity, with students lining up to take to the virtual track, test their racing skills and experience esports competition in a world‑class motorsport environment. The enthusiasm on display reflected growing student interest in esports and sim racing pathways, particularly as Australia looks toward the future of motorsport and digital competition.

After a tightly contested series of races, three students emerged as podium finishers in the inaugural Victorian edition of the Virtual Grand Prix:

  • 🥇 Julien, St Francis Catholic College, Melton
  • 🥈 Corbin, Vermont Secondary College
  • 🥉 Anton, Buckley Park Secondary College

Each finalist demonstrated impressive racecraft, composure under pressure and technical skill, The event formed a key milestone in the broader launch of the AEL Virtual Grand Prix for Victorian schools, which was announced earlier this year as a new competitive platform designed to engage students through esports, STEM-aligned learning, and career pathways connected to motorsport, technology and digital industries.

The Melbourne activation gave students hands-on access to professional-grade racing setups while showcasing how esports can connect education, competition and industry at a large-scale public event.

AEL also acknowledged the support of Xbox Game Pass, with EA Play’s F1 25 available on the day through a Game Pass Ultimate subscription, allowing students to experience the latest Formula 1 title in a competitive, live setting.

The success of the event was made possible through collaboration with AEL’s partners, including AGON by AOC, Indomie Australia, HyperX, and Officeworks, whose contributions helped deliver a high-quality, inclusive experience for visiting students.

Looking ahead, AEL confirmed that the Virtual Grand Prix is just getting started. The organisation plans to continue delivering the competition term-by-term, expanding opportunities for students across Victoria while building momentum toward the 2027 Melbourne Grand Prix.

“Going forward, AEL is building something special,” an AEL spokesperson said. “The Virtual Grand Prix will continue to grow, giving students more chances to compete, connect and explore future pathways through esports and motorsport.”

With strong student participation, enthusiastic crowds and a showcase podium finish, the inaugural AEL Virtual Grand Prix has laid the foundation for a flagship student competition that blends education, esports and world-class racing culture.

To find out more about the AEL Virtual Grand Prix visit ael.org.au/virtualgrandprix

Mar 19
Love1

From Minecraft to Melbourne Park: Student Champions Celebrate at Australian Open 2026

By Minecraft, News, Schools

What began in the immersive world of Minecraft Education reached its unforgettable climax on one of sport’s biggest stages, as the winning students from the Australian Open 2025 Schools Block Buster Tennis Challenge were celebrated at Australian Open 2026.

Student teams across three divisions of Years 4–6, 7–9 and 10–12 from around Australia were rewarded with an experience money simply can’t buy: tickets to both the Men’s and Women’s Grand Slam Finals, a behind‑the‑scenes tour of the AO, and the chance to step onto one of the Australian Open’s most iconic courts.

A Front‑Row Seat to Grand Slam History

After being crowned champions last year, the winning teams travelled to Melbourne to witness tennis history firsthand, attending both finals of AO 2026 in an atmosphere few will ever forget.

Beyond match day excitement, the students were invited on an exclusive Behind the Scenes Australian Open tour, gaining rare access to areas normally reserved for players, media, and officials. Highlights included:

  • The Media Centre, where global tennis moments are broadcast to millions
  • The Champion’s Walk, showcasing legends of the sport
  • The Player’s Lounge, offering a glimpse into athlete life at a Grand Slam
  • Insight into the inner operations that power one of the world’s premier sporting events

For many students, this was their first time seeing how creativity, logistics, technology, and sport intersect at a world‑class event.

Standing Where Champions Play

One of the most memorable moments came when students were invited onto Arena 1573, where they captured photos on the court itself, a rare opportunity that left more than a few jaws dropped.

They also posed with Australia’s most coveted prizes:

  • The Norman Brookes Challenge Cup (Men’s Singles Trophy)
  • The Daphne Akhurst Memorial Cup (Women’s Singles Trophy)

Standing beside these iconic trophies offered a powerful reminder of how imagination, innovation and hard work, even when starting in Minecraft, can open extraordinary doors.

Celebrating Student Innovation

Each winning team was also presented with a custom‑made trophy designed by Hench & Scrap, alongside additional prizes celebrating their creativity, collaboration, and vision for the future of the Australian Open precinct.

The Schools Block Buster Tennis Challenge, delivered by the Australian Esports League in partnership with the Australian Open, invited students to rebuild and reimagine the Australian Open precinct in Melbourne Park within Minecraft Education blending digital design, sustainability, and future‑focused thinking.

Across the divisions, students tackled ambitious briefs:

  • Years 4–6 – “Future Focus”
    Students designed the AO FutureScape District, exploring sustainability and fan experience through youthful imagination.
  • Years 7–9 – “Connected Futures”
    Teams designed a key stadium plus three interlinked precinct areas, focusing on connectivity, accessibility, and innovation.
  • Years 10–12 – “The Ultimate Re‑imagining: AO for the Future”
    Students undertook a complete reimagining of the entire Australian Open precinct, presenting bold visions for the future of sport and entertainment.

The competition attracted student builders from across Australia, competing for a share of a prize pool valued at more than $25,000 and the chance to see their ideas celebrated on a global stage.

2025 Schools Block Buster Challenge Winners

Years 4–6 – “Future Focus”

  • School: Abbotsleigh
  • Team Name: The Mining Minions
  • Students: Elsa, Vera, Angela, Aceline

Years 7–9 – “Connected Futures”

  • School: Hills Grammar School
  • Team Name: EcoPastels
  • Students: Audrey, Wendy, Candice

Years 10–12 – “The Ultimate Re‑imagining: AO for the Future”

  • School: St Stephens Catholic College
  • Team Name: Toast
  • Students: Lani, Lisa, Mercedes

For all schools submissions you can find them here: 2025 AO Challenge Results – Australian Esports League

Inspiring the Next Generation

From reimagining stadiums block by block to standing courtside at a Grand Slam final, these students’ journeys are a powerful example of how education, technology, creativity, and sport can come together to inspire the next generation.

Congratulations to all the winning teams, your ideas didn’t just stay in Minecraft. They earned a place at the heart of the Australian Open.

Feb 19
Love0

AEL Launches the “AEL Virtual Grand Prix” for Victorian Schools

By News, Schools

The Australian Esports League (AEL) and the Australian Grand Prix Corporation have partnered to create the ultimate motorsport experience for Victorian students: the AEL Virtual Grand Prix.

Powered by Xbox Game Pass, this premier tournament invites students from across the state to compete for racing glory. We are combining the thrill of the Grand Prix™ event with a structured esports competition, offering a unique blend of digital motorsport and real-world excitement.

Top qualifiers will earn a spot in the Champions Pool, representing their school and attending the Grand Prix™ on Thursday, March 5th to compete in the Grand Finals live from the Innovation Hub. This is the “Start Line” for the next generation of motorsport and gaming fans.

How to Register Registration is now open. Students and teachers can visit the official portal to view the full rule set, qualifier dates, and registration instructions. Secure your spot on the grid today at: www.ael.org.au/virtualgrandprix

From the Classroom to the Circuit The tournament is open to all students aged 10-18 currently enrolled in a Victorian school, providing an accessible pathway into competitive esports. Aspiring drivers have two ways to earn their grid position:

  • Secondary Division (Ages 13-18 / Years 7-12): Competitors will race in Online Qualifiers over the weekend of February 28 – March 1. Students can play from home or school on their own hardware (F1® 24 on PC or Xbox) with a stable internet connection. The Top 12 Drivers will qualify for the live finals.
  • Primary Division (Ages 10-12): A dedicated Junior Qualifier will be hosted in-person at Kingsville Primary on Saturday, February 28. Students will compete on AEL-provided Xbox consoles and controllers. The Top 4 Drivers will qualify for the live finals. (Note: A parent or guardian must remain on-site for supervision).

Each student who qualifies for the Champions Pool will earn a ticket for themselves and one parent to attend the live finals.

Race Where the Pros Race The grand final isn’t played in a classroom or from home. It is played metres from the track at the FORMULA 1® QATAR AIRWAYS AUSTRALIAN GRAND PRIX 2026.

  • The Venue: The Innovation Hub presented by Engineers Australia is the epicentre of future technology at Albert Park. It is a dedicated showcase where the brightest minds in motorsport, defence, aviation, and STEM come together.
  • The Atmosphere: Finalists won’t just be competing; they will be immersed in the electric energy of the Grand Prix™. Experience the roar of the engines, the smell of burning rubber, and the cutting-edge tech of the paddock. This is the ultimate excursion for any motorsport fan.

A Pathway for Future Talent “This competition is about more than just fast laps; it’s about giving students a platform to showcase their talent on a national stage,” says Darren Kwan, Director of the Australian Esports League. “Thanks to Xbox Game Pass and the realism of modern racing simulators, we are bridging the gap between gaming and professional motorsport, giving students a taste of the pressure and excitement of the Grand Prix™ paddock.”

About the Australian Esports League (AEL): The AEL is a leading provider of esports tournaments and gaming events in Australia, dedicated to building the grassroots ecosystem and providing structured competitions for schools, universities, and community groups.

Jan 21
Love0

A New Era of Digital Sport: Term 1 2026 High School League Registrations Are Open!

By News, Schools

The Australian Esports League is thrilled to officially launch the 2026 High School esports season.

Following significant upgrades to our platform and resources, Term 1 promises to be our most competitive and accessible season yet. We invite high schools across Australia to join hundreds of others in providing a structured, safe, and highly engaging arena for their students to compete, connect, and develop crucial future skills.

Registrations are open immediately for students in Years 7 through 12, with competition kicking off on February 21st.

The AEL is proudly sponsored by AGON by AOC the Gaming Monitor partner, Indomie Australia the Noodle partner, HyperX the Gaming Peripheral partner and Officeworks a retail partner.

More Than Just a Game

Esports in schools is moving beyond casual lunchtime play. It is rapidly becoming recognized as a legitimate “digital sport” that offers the same benefits as traditional field sports: communication under pressure, strategic planning, accountability, and resilience in the face of defeat.

Our Term 1 leagues provide a teacher-supervised environment where students can represent their school crest on a national stage, fostering school pride and engaging students who may not participate in traditional athletics.

The Term 1 Lineup

We have curated a diverse selection of titles to suit different skill sets, from high-speed teamwork to strategic engineering.

  • Rocket League (3v3): The premier digital sport combining soccer with physics-based driving.
  • Marvel Rivals (6v6): The new team-based hero shooter emphasizing role synergy and cooperation.
  • Minecraft: Capture the Flag (5v5): A test of engineering, resource management, and defensive strategy within Minecraft Education.
  • Super Smash Bros. Ultimate (1v1): A fast-paced test of mental agility, reaction time, and sportsmanship.

👉 View full competition details on our new Leagues Page

A Streamlined Experience for Teachers

To coincide with the 2026 launch, we have completely rebuilt the AEL Schools Hub. Teachers can now access game-specific resources, parent information letters, rulebooks, and simplified registration forms all in one place.

Contact the AEL via schools@ael.org.au about accessing the hub!

There are no team caps for any titles, allowing schools to enter as many squads as they wish to ensure maximum participation.

Key Dates & How to Register

  • Registrations Open: Now
  • Registrations Close: Monday, 16 February
  • Week 1 Begins: Saturday, 21 February

To register, a supervising teacher must complete the school registration form. Parents and students are encouraged to direct their teachers to the AEL website.

We look forward to seeing your school on the virtual pitch this term!

Nov 02
Love0

Fans Flocked to the AEL Zone at Oz Comic-Con Sydney

By Events, News, Schools, University Cup

UNSW Esports and UON Esports Club reigned supreme on the university stage at Oz Comic-Con Sydney while Gymea Technology High School claimed victory in the schools showdown.

The Australian Esports League (AEL) lit up Oz Comic-Con Sydney at the Sydney Showground on 20–21 September 2025, delivering another unforgettable weekend of esports action, creativity, and community connection.

We re-cap all the excitement and energy from those two incredible days, from packed crowds to nail-biting finals, the AEL Zone once again proved to be one of the most vibrant attractions on the show floor showcasing the best of Australia’s grassroots esports scene.

Re-watch the live stream on YouTube here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6a2KePyO8Aw

University Esports Showcase – A Weekend of Rivalry and Respect

Saturday saw fierce competition between university clubs from across New South Wales in VALORANT and Rocket League, with students battling for pride, trophies, and bragging rights.

The final university standings were:

VALORANT Champions:

  • 1st Place: UNSW Esports
  • 2nd Place: UTS Esports
  • 3rd Place: USYD Society of Gamers

Rocket League Champions:

  • 1st Place: UON Esports Club
  • 2nd Place: UNSW Esports
  • 3rd Place: MQU Gaming

Thank you to all our university competitors for putting on a spectacular show.

Young Talent Shines in Minecraft CTF Schools Showcase

Sunday turned the spotlight onto the next generation of esports stars, as schools took to the Minecraft: Capture the Flag arena for a series of thrilling matches. The strategies were sharp, the builds were clever, and the excitement was contagious.

Minecraft CTF Schools Champions

  • 1st Place: Gymea Technology High School
  • 2nd Place: Caringbah High School
  • 3rd Place: Oxley Park Public School

Relive the Action: Sydney Esports Showcase Photo Album

The energy, the passion, the victories! Find yourself in the crowd and check out all the highlights from the weekend below, the full photo album is available at www.facebook.com/auesportsleague

An Interactive Zone Full of Energy

Away from the main stage, the AEL Zone buzzed with activity all weekend. The HyperX and Officeworks Soundwall let players experience pro-level gear, the Indomie Australia zone offered a relaxed space for casual gaming and noodles, and the AGON by AOC play wall stunned attendees with its crystal-clear displays and silky-smooth gameplay.

Every corner of the space was alive with laughter, competition, and discovery proving once again why the AEL Zone remains a highlight of every Oz Comic-Con stop.

A Heartfelt Thank You

A massive thank you to all the players, students, teachers, and university clubs who made the Sydney showcase a success. Your skill and enthusiasm continue to drive the growth of esports in Australia.

We also extend our deepest gratitude to our partners HyperX, Officeworks, AGON by AOC, and Indomie Australia for their ongoing support and for helping us deliver these amazing interactive experiences.

A special thank you to AMD and HP Omen for providing the high-end gaming PC’s powering the esports stage and enusring our student competitors enjoyed the highest in gaming quality.

And of course, a huge thank you to the Oz Comic-Con team for hosting another fantastic event.