Tag

Minecraft

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!

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)

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)

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)

 

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.

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

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.

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!

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.

Australian Open & Australian Esports League invite students to reimagine the AO precinct in Minecraft

By Events, Minecraft, Schools

The Australian Open, in partnership with the Australian Esports League (AEL), is inviting students from Years 4-12 across Australia to participate in the AO Schools Block Buster Tennis Challenge. Using Minecraft: Education Edition, participants will rebuild and reimagine the iconic AO precinct, bringing together their passion for tennis, design, sustainability and STEM.

Over 100 schools have already enrolled for the 2025 competition, which offers a prize pool valued at more than $25,000 including travel to Melbourne for the AO 2026 finals weekend, tickets to the AO finals, custom trophies, and more.

The challenge spans three year-level categories:

  • Years 4–6: “Future Focus” (fan zone + one court)
  • Years 7–9: “Connected Futures” (a stadium + three connected facilities)
  • Years 10–12: “The Ultimate Reimagining” (entire precinct)

Registrations close 31 October 2025, with submissions due 28 November and winners announced 16 December.

For full details and to register, schools and educators can head to the AEL website: https://ael.org.au/aochallenge2025/

Read the full press release here: https://ausopen.com/articles/news/students-invited-reimagine-ao-minecraft-education

The Australian Esports League’s High School Cup Returns for Term 4!

By News, Schools

The Australian Esports League’s (AEL) High School Cup is back for Term 4 2025, giving schools across Australia one more chance this year to compete in a season packed with excitement, teamwork, and school pride!

After an incredible year of gameplay and competition, Term 4 welcomes both new and returning schools to jump in, form teams, and take on the challenge in Australia’s biggest interschool esports league.

Games on Offer:

  • Rocket League (3v3) – the fusion of football and rocket-powered cars
  • Marvel Rivals (5v5) – team-based super-powered chaos
  • Minecraft: Capture The Flag (5v5) – where teamwork, tactics, and creativity collide
  • Super Smash Bros. Ultimate (1v1) – iconic fighters go head-to-head
  • Brawlhalla (1v1) – the free-to-play platform brawler with endless depth
  • Trackmania (Solo Time Trials) – push your reflexes to the limit on custom-built tracks

Key Dates:

  • Registrations Close: Monday 3 November 2025
  • Competition Starts: Saturday 8 November 2025
  • Competition Finals: Saturday 13 December 2025

Matches are held every Saturday online, with schools seeded into balanced divisions to ensure fair and exciting matchups. Over six weeks, teams will rise through the ranks to determine the ultimate division champions for Term 4!

Why Get Involved?

  • Build school spirit through team competition
  • Develop digital literacy, communication, and leadership
  • Experience structured, competitive esports in a safe and inclusive environment
  • Earn recognition for your school in Australia’s leading interschool league

How to Join:

Schools can register teams via our website. Whether you’re a returning school or brand new to esports, we welcome you to be part of Australia’s leading interschool competition.

👉 Register here: https://ael.org.au/hs

Reach out to the AEL team at schools@ael.org.au for any further assistance.

We look forwad to the last season of competition for 2025 being the best one!

Brisbane Esports Showcase Ignites Oz Comic-Con with Packed Crowds and Thrilling Victories

By Events, News, Schools, University Cup

QUT Respawn dominates the university stage while All Saints Parish, Albany Creek claims victory in a thrilling schools showdown, all within a vibrant AEL Zone that was the talk of the convention.

The Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre was buzzing with competitive energy this past weekend as the Australian Esports League (AEL) delivered an unforgettable showcase at Oz Comic-Con. From thrilling grand finals on the main stage to bustling free-play zones, the AEL Zone was a hub of non-stop action, drawing in massive crowds and highlighting the passion of Australia’s grassroots esports community.

The atmosphere was electric all weekend, with all 100 seats in front of the AEL Esports Stage consistently full, and standing spectators crowding around to catch a glimpse of the action.

QUT Respawn Claims Double Championship in University Showcase

Saturday was a story of domination, with QUT Respawn putting on a masterclass performance to secure the championship title in both VALORANT and Rocket League. The cross-town rivalries were fierce, with teams from Griffith University, Southern Cross University, and the University of Queensland all showcasing incredible skill and teamwork.

The final university standings were:

VALORANT Champions:

  • 1st Place: QUT Respawn
  • 2nd Place: Griffith Esports
  • 3rd Place: SCU Esports

Rocket League Champions:

  • 1st Place: QUT Respawn
  • 2nd Place: Griffith Esports
  • 3rd Place: University of Queensland

Congratulations to QUT for an incredible display, and to all our university competitors for putting on a spectacular show.

All Saints Parish, Albany Creek Conquers the Minecraft Arena

On Sunday, the spotlight turned to the next generation of esports talent. In a tense and strategic Minecraft: Capture The Flag final, students representing All Saints Parish, Albany Creek emerged victorious, showcasing brilliant teamwork to overcome the formidable runners-up from Lockyer District High School. The passion and sportsmanship on display were a testament to the bright future of scholastic esports in the region.

Relive the Action: Brisbane 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

A Buzz of Activity Beyond the Stage

The excitement wasn’t confined to the main stage. The entire AEL Zone was a hive of activity, packed with attendees eager to get hands-on.

The HyperX and Officeworks Soundwall proved to be a massive hit, with gamers lining up to experience pro-grade audio on our Xbox stations. The Indomie Australia Switch 2 zone was a popular spot to chill, play, and grab some noodles, while the AGON by AOC play wall drew in crowds with its stunning visuals and smooth gameplay.

A Massive Thank You

This incredible weekend would not have been possible without the passion and dedication of so many people.

A huge thank you to all the players, students, teachers, and university clubs who competed with such skill and heart.

Our sincere gratitude goes to our amazing partners: HyperX, Officeworks, AGON by AOC, and Indomie Australia. Your support allows us to create these amazing, interactive experiences for the community.

Thank you to the entire Oz Comic-Con team for being fantastic hosts and putting on an incredible event.

And finally, to every single attendee who watched a match, played a game, or just stopped by to see what was happening – thank you for bringing the energy and making the Brisbane Esports Showcase a roaring success. We can’t wait to see you at the next one!

Term 3 High School Esports Starts Soon – Register Now and Qualify for Nationals at PAX!

By News, Schools

The Australian Esports League’s High School Cup is back for Term 3 – and this time, it’s your last chance to qualify for the 2025 AEL Nationals!

We’re calling on schools across the country to gear up, squad up, and battle it out in a thrilling season of competition. Term 3 features some of the most exciting titles in student esports – and top teams will earn their shot at representing their school on the national stage.

Matches are held every Saturday with students competing over the internet to face off against their peers from across the country. Students are seeded into divisions for balanced play with the competition taking place over six weeks with an ultimate winner in each division decided on the final week of play.

Games on Offer:

  • Rocket League (3v3) – the classic fusion of football and rocket-powered cars
  • Marvel Rivals (5v5) – the brand-new team-based shooter packed with superpowered chaos
  • Minecraft: Capture The Flag (5v5) – teamwork, tactics, and creativity collide
  • Super Smash Bros. Ultimate (1v1) – iconic fighters go head-to-head in fast-paced battles
  • Brawlhalla (1v1) – free-to-play platform fighter with a deep competitive scene
  • Trackmania (Solo Time Trials) – test your reflexes on high-speed custom-built tracks

Nationals:

Each game leads to a National Finals showdown. Here’s how qualification works:

  • Rocket League: The winners of Term 1 and Term 2, plus the top two teams from Term 3, will battle it out at the AEL Nationals hosted live at PAX Australia on October 10. The AEL will cover access to PAX, and any flights or accommodation needed for each school team and their teacher.
  • Marvel Rivals and Minecraft: CTF: Each will feature a National Final taking place online. The winners of Term 1 and 2, along with the top two teams from Term 3, will qualify to compete.
  • Extra prizes for nationals! Winning students who are crowned the AEL’s 2025 Nationals champion will win an AOC 24G4 FHD 180Hz gaming monitor and a HyperX Cloud Stinger 2 Headset Black.

Key Dates:

  • Registrations Close: Monday, 4 August 2025
  • Competition Starts: Saturday, 9 August 2025
  • Competition Finals: Saturday, 13 September 2025
  • Nationals for Rocket League: Held at PAX Australia, in Melbourne Friday, 10 October 2025.
  • Nationals for All Other games: Held online, Saturday 18 October 2025

Why Get Involved?

  • Build school spirit through team play
  • Strengthen digital literacy, communication, and leadership
  • Gain experience in structured competitive environments
  • National exposure and prestige for schools and students

How to Join:

Schools can register teams via our website. Whether you’re a returning school or brand new to esports, we welcome you to be part of Australia’s leading interschool competition.

👉 Register here: https://ael.org.au/hs

Reach out to the AEL team at schools@ael.org.au for any further assistance.

Let’s make Term 3 the biggest yet – good luck and game on!

Excited for School Esports? Check out these photos from our recent School Esports event in Townsville, proudly supported by Townsville City Council. Read more here.