Empire State Scholastic Esports Federation
Helping schools and students across New York State enjoy the benefits of scholastic esports
2023
Year Founded
115+
Schools
26,000
Estimated Student Reach
29%
Increase in Player Participation (Fall 2025)
Empowering New York Students through Esports
The Empire State Scholastic Esports Federation (ESSEF) is a non-profit organization led and run by educators, dedicated to supporting accessible K-12 scholastic esports across New York State.
As the leading K12 scholastic esports organization in NYS, we have:
– Built a statewide educational network for scholastic esports in New York serving over 100 schools through organized high school and middle school esports leagues
– Created a NYS championship pathway, organizing large scale in-person events in collaboration with collegiate partners
– Increased scholastic participation in esports across geographic and demographic boundaries, working to ensure low barriers to entry while increasing the legitimacy of an endeavor that has changed the trajectory of students lives.
– Distributed over $5,500 worth of Nintendo online subscription and game codes through a partnership with Nintendo of America, vis a vis the Interstate Scholastic Esports Alliance.
– Led statewide professional development in partnership with BOCES and educational technology conferences, sharing vetted best practices for integrating esports directly into school culture.
– Created authentic college and career exposure. Students regularly compete at university venues and interact with collegiate esports programs.
Our Mission
Our mission is to encourage community involvement, academic achievement, and career development in youth within a safe, equitable, and inclusive environment.
Our Vision
Our vision is to help schools and students across NYS enjoy the benefits of scholastic esports.
The ESSEF Difference
Mission Over Profit
As a non-profit, we keep costs low and predictable so every school district—regardless of budget—can afford to play.
New York Focus
Our competitive schedules, state championships, and local college pathways are built specifically by NY educators, for NY school calendars.
Real Local Support
When you need help, you’re talking directly to a fellow New York teacher. We are local educators who are personally invested in supporting your program.
Compliant & School-Safe
We strictly adhere to New York EdLaw 2-d student data privacy requirements, guaranteeing that student data is protected.
Happenings
Latest News
Regular Season has Started
ESSEF Fall 2026 Season Starts Now! Important Schedule Updates & Coach Checklist Inside.
Schedules are out and match days are around the corner! Attention Smash Solos Coaches: Please review your rosters today—if any players are missing due to the recent system glitch, complete the correction form by 8 PM so we can get them added to the schedule.
Read on for updated Match Trackers, coaching resources, Sim Racing schedule shifts, and committee sign-ups!
The Fall Season is Here!
Final Chance to Rostering for Fall 2026! Live Support & Extension Details Inside.
The fall season is almost here! We’ve extended roster enrollment through Wednesday evening to give every program time to finish setup. Missing league codes or need live help? Join our Fusion Portal overview session today at 11:15 AM or email [email protected].
Scroll down for the complete setup checklist, Sim Racing kickoff dates, and new coach resources!
Important Fall & Summer Updates
Coaches Survey & Town Hall Over the next few months, big changes are coming to New York scholastic esports. ESSEF is here to help schools, teams, coaches, and players during this time of transition. Due to drastic changes in payment structures relating to our online league hosting vendor that...
Upcoming Events
Fall 2026 Season Updates – Coaches’ Town Hall
As we enter an exciting new era for scholastic esports in New York State, we’re hosting an exclusive Town Hall to update our coaches on what’s ahead. Join us for a first look at our new competition platform, an overview of the Fall 2026 season, and a live Q&A session with league leadership.
2026 Fall Championship
Save the date! More information will be coming after the start of the Fall 2026 season.
ESSEF at Times Square
Date: August 25, 2026
Location: Times Square
Wonderama and ESSEF have teamed up for a special event. Get ready because you’ll be playing at Times Square in NYC!
Support
Join ESSEF Today!
Become a part of the ESSEF and help shape the future of NYS esports.
At the Empire State Scholastic Esports Federation (ESSEF), we believe that the future of scholastic Esports should be shaped by the schools and colleges themselves. Educators and institutions best understand their students, school cultures, and academic goals, making them the ideal leaders in fostering an esports ecosystem that aligns with their unique needs.
From organizing tournaments and securing funding to facilitating collaborations, ESSEF equips institutions with everything necessary to independently drive their esports programs forward.
Our Partners
