Tag

Schools

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

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.

Jun 13
Love1

Phoenix P-12 Community College Strikes Gold with Inaugural AEL Gold Rush Cup

By Events, News, Schools

Phoenix P-12 Community College is still buzzing from the success of its first-ever AEL Gold Rush Cup, a thrilling Rocket League tournament that showcased the immense potential of esports in education. The event, held in partnership with the Australian Esports League (AEL), saw 42 students across 14 teams compete in a day of high-octane virtual action, culminating in a nail-biting grand final.

Held on the 2nd of June, the school’s theatre was transformed into the ‘Phoenix Esports Arena’ for the event, complete with a big screen for gameplay, a packed and cheering crowd, and an atmosphere described as “unbelievable.” The event was a testament to the school’s innovative approach to student engagement, and a shining example of how esports can provide a platform for students to connect with their school in new and meaningful ways.

James Nichols, Information Technology Teacher at Phoenix P-12 Community College who was instrumental in organizing the event, was thrilled with the outcome. “It was a massive success!” he shared. “What really stood out was how many students got involved in different ways. Beyond the players, we had students running tech, commentating, and helping to manage the event. It was such a great showcase of how esports can connect students to school, especially for those who might not normally engage in traditional extracurriculars.”

The competition was fierce, but ultimately, the team of Dylan, Baxter, and Locky emerged as the champions of the inaugural Gold Rush Cup. Link, Seth, and Codie took a well-deserved second place, while Byron, Decklan, and Aidan rounded out the top three.

The professional quality of the event was elevated by the support of the AEL, who provided trophies and high-performance AGON by AOC gaming monitors as prizes. This tangible recognition of the students’ skills and dedication added a layer of excitement and legitimacy to the competition.

Event in Photos

More Than Just a Game: The Power of Educational Esports

The success of the AEL Gold Rush Cup at Phoenix P-12 highlights a growing understanding of the educational value of esports. Far from being a simple pastime, organized competitive gaming offers a unique avenue for student development, fostering a wide range of valuable skills, including:

  • Teamwork and Communication: Esports are inherently collaborative, requiring players to communicate effectively, strategize as a team, and work towards a common goal.
  • Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking: The dynamic nature of competitive games demands quick thinking, adaptability, and the ability to analyze situations and make split-second decisions.
  • Digital Literacy and Technical Skills: Students involved in esports gain hands-on experience with technology, from managing hardware and software to understanding streaming and event production.
  • Student Engagement and Inclusivity: Esports programs can be particularly effective at engaging students who may not be drawn to traditional sports or clubs, creating a sense of belonging and community for a diverse range of learners.

Bring the Excitement of Esports to Your School with the AEL

The Australian Esports League is at the forefront of fostering the growth of esports in Australian schools. The AEL provides a structured and supportive framework for schools to establish their own esports programs and host exciting events like the Gold Rush Cup.

By partnering with the AEL, schools can:

  • Access expert guidance and support in organizing and running esports tournaments.
  • Offer students a pathway to compete in a professional and well-governed environment.
  • Provide students with the opportunity to win impressive prizes, thanks to partnerships with leading brands like AGON by AOC.
  • Join a growing community of schools that are embracing the future of student engagement.

The AEL Gold Rush Cup at Phoenix P-12 Community College is a powerful demonstration of what can be achieved when schools and the esports community collaborate. The event not only provided a memorable experience for the students but also laid the groundwork for future growth.

“We are really keen to sit down and determine the next step in bringing this to more schools in our local area,” said Mr. Nichols.

For schools interested in exploring the exciting world of educational esports and learning how to host their own event, the Australian Esports League is the ideal partner.

To learn more about how you can bring the thrill of competitive gaming to your students, reach us via email: schools@ael.org.au and get in touch with our dedicated team.

Sep 30
Love1

Australian Esports League Monthly Update – September 2024

By Events, Minecraft, News, Schools, University Cup

Welcome to the September edition of the AEL newsletter! As we approach the final quarter of 2024, it’s been a busy and exciting month for the AEL, with incredible events and ongoing competitions.

This month we launched our epic partnership with the Australian Open and announced the AO Schools Block Buster Tennis Challenge, a new and unique Minecraft Education event that challenges students to re-imagine the Australian Open! We’ve seen intense competitive play across our High School and University leagues which you can re-watch the action on our Twitch or Facebook channels. PLUS we hosted two awesome activations at Oz Comic-Con in Brisbane and Sydney!

Let’s dive into some of the latest highlights and key upcoming events.

Recent AEL Events

AEL High Schools Cup Term 3 – Recap: Term 3 of the AEL High Schools Cup has wrapped up, and it’s been another thrilling season of esports action across Australia! Congratulations to all teams for their dedication and sportsmanship. You can catch detailed results on our social media, let’s celebrate our champions!

  • In Overwatch 2 the Division 1 winner was Kelvin Grove State College!
  • In Rocket League the Division 1 winner was St Peter Claver College!
  • In Minecraft: Capture the Flag the winner was St Peter’s Lutheran College
  • In Trackmania the ultimate racer was “TheBeefLessCow” from Pacific Pines State High
  • In Super Smash Bros. Ultimate the champion was “BowlOfRamen” from St Luke’s Catholic College

Term 4 is just around the corner, with registrations open until October 25th. Schools can sign up for their chance to compete in some of the most exciting games in esports. For more information and to register your school, visit our High Schools Cup page.

Oz Comic-Con Brisbane and OZ Comic-Con Sydney: The AEL made its mark in Brisbane on September 14-15 and in Sydney on September 21-22 with our gaming activation, where we brought the action to the show floor with our AEL Gaming Zone! Fans and attendees had the opportunity to experience some free play gaming action all weekend, meet our team, and get involved in community pick-up tournaments.

We’ve captured some fantastic moments from both weekends. Be sure to check out our photo albums for a recap of the event: Photo Album – Brisbane, Photo Album – Sydney.

Upcoming AEL Events

2024 AEL University Cup Series 2: The stakes are rising as we head into the playoffs for both the AEL University Cup and the AEL Elite Series. Teams have battled through tough competition, and now, the best will compete for the championship titles.

The finals will take place on October 21st, where teams will fight for top honours and prizes. Keep an eye on our socials for announcements and updates and how to watch the action live! We wish all University students competing the best of luck.

2024 AEL Schools Minecraft Competition – Series 2: This series is well underway, and we’re already seeing some creative and innovative submissions from students across Australia. All student submissions are due by October 18th with marking taking place until the winner’s are announced November 4th!

This series focuses on three themes: Mythic Australia (Years 4-6), Designing for Accessibility (Years 7-9), and The Global Challenge (Years 10-12). Each category presents a unique opportunity for students to showcase their creativity and problem-solving skills. Learn more about the challenge here.

AO Schools Block Buster Tennis Challenge: Don’t miss out on your chance to participate in this exciting Minecraft competition, we are challenging schools and solo entrants to reimagine the Australian Open precinct with a focus on sustainability, accessibility, and innovation. Registrations for both school teams and solo participants close on October 18th. Whether you’re competing with your school or flying solo, there’s still time to join the action and showcase your creativity. Learn more and register here.

The AEL is proudly supported by its partners:

AGON by AOC the gaming monitor partner

Indomie Australia the noodle partner

Jul 31
Love0

Australian Esports League Monthly Update – July 2024

By News

2024 has been an exhilarating year for the Australian Esports League (AEL), filled with groundbreaking events, new partnerships, and incredible growth within the esports community.

We’ve witnessed the expansion of our High Schools Cup, the successful launch of the Latrobe Esports Cup, and our collaboration with major events like Science Alive! in Adelaide. The excitement doesn’t stop there; with the inclusion of esports in the upcoming Olympic Games the momentum for esports is only building.

Starting from this month the AEL will highlight what’s come up and results from recent activity.

Upcoming AEL Events

Science Alive! (Adelaide, August 4-6) This weekend, the AEL team will be at Science Alive! in Adelaide. Join us for an exciting experience featuring free play gaming areas, live tournaments, and opportunities to learn about the latest in gaming technology. The AEL will be hosting tournaments for schools attending the Stem Day out on Friday, plus open tournaments for attendees over Saturday and Sunday! Don’t miss out on this interactive and educational event. Event details

Latrobe Esports Cup (Traralgon, August 9-10) Next weekend, we are hosting the inaugural Latrobe Esports Cup, supported by Visit Latrobe City. This event has two components with Friday focusing on mentorship and skill development among high school students and Saturday featuring a $1,000+ prize pool across open competitions in Halo: Infinite, Street Fighter 6, FC 24 and more. Event details

AEL High Schools Cup Term 3 Registrations Registrations for the AEL High Schools Cup Term 3 close on August 9th. This competition offers a platform for high school students to showcase their skills in games like Rocket League, Overwatch 2, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, Trackmania, and Minecraft CTF. Register here.

2024 AEL Schools Minecraft Competition Series 2 of the AEL Schools Minecraft competition focuses on themes such as Mythic Australia, Designing for Accessibility, and The Global Challenge. Registrations close on August 16th, and the build period runs from August 19th to October 18th.

Competition details here.

AEL University Cup Series 2 Registrations

  • Elite Series: Registrations close on August 11th. This series is designed for highly skilled university teams to compete at the highest level.
  • Open Series: Registrations close on August 18th, offering a competitive platform for all university students.

For more information and to register, visit our University Cup page.

Stay tuned for more updates and join us at these exciting events. Together, let’s continue to grow and celebrate the vibrant esports community!

AEL at OZ Comic-Con Canberra

We’re thrilled to share that the AEL will be attending Oz Comic-Con Canberra this August 24-25. Visitors can look forward to an exciting free-to-play gaming zone, where they can enjoy a wide range of games on offer. In addition to the gaming zone, we’ll be hosting pick-up tournaments throughout the weekend, open to all attendees. This is a fantastic opportunity to showcase your skills, meet fellow gamers, and immerse yourself in the vibrant community of Oz Comic-Con. Be sure to stop by and join the fun! .

Notable Esports News

Olympic Esports Games Voted In by IOC In a landmark decision, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) has voted to include esports in the Olympic Games. The inaugural Olympic Esports Games will take place in Saudi Arabia in 2025. This move marks a significant milestone for the esports community, blending the traditional Olympic spirit with the dynamic and rapidly growing world of competitive gaming. For more details, you can read our write-up on this exciting development here.

The AEL is proudly supported by its partners:

AGON by AOC the gaming monitor partner

Indomie Australia the noodle partner

Mar 01
Love0

Themes Unveiled for Series 1 of the 2024 AEL Minecraft Schools Competition

By Events, Minecraft, News

Get ready to build, collaborate, and explore fascinating concepts – the AEL Minecraft Schools Competition Series 1 themes are here! We’re thrilled to unveil the creative challenges that await students across Australia.

Years 4-6 Pool: Neighbourhood Heroes

Young builders, it’s time to celebrate the everyday heroes that make our communities thrive! Design a Minecraft neighbourhood showcasing the diverse jobs and roles that keep things running smoothly. Think firefighters, shopkeepers, teachers, and many more. Focus on teamwork and emphasize the vital contributions each person makes to the community.

Years 7-9 Pool: Mathematical Marvels

Prepare to journey back in time and bring mathematics to life! Imagine the world of a classical civilization – ancient Greece, Rome, or Egypt – then visualize mathematical concepts or geometric shapes within this setting. Build awe-inspiring structures or landscapes rooted in mathematical principles. Are you ready to blend history, design, and math in a truly unique way?

Years 10-12 Pool: Literary Landscapes

Calling all literary enthusiasts and creative architects! Delve into the world of an Australian novel or poem, transforming its essence into a Minecraft masterpiece. Construct environments, symbols, and even characters that embody the heart and soul of your chosen literary work.

Get Building & Show Off Your Skills!

Remember, registrations are still open for this epic competition! Secure your spot and unleash your students’ creativity.

  • Registration Closes: March 15th
  • Build Period: March 18th – May 24th
  • Website: www.ael.org.au/minecraft for full details and registration

We can’t wait to see the incredible worlds your students will create!