Two students affected change during Monday night’s Ellsworth-Kanopolis-Geneseo USD 327 Board of Education meeting.

An esports club will be added at Ellsworth Jr./Sr. High School, thanks to a request from Anthony Jundt and Ryan Schultz. The duo presented a proposed constitution and bylaws for the club.

“In computer programming, esports just started, (and) we are having an awful lot of fun. We were wondering if there is a way to relax, have fun and maybe meet new people,” Jundt said.

In addition to computer gaming, he said the club would include card games and chess.

He said the social aspect of the group could be positive for students at EJSHS.

“For many people, they don’t have anything else they want to do, they may struggle to meet friends,” Jundt said.

“Everybody likes to have fun.”

The current group attended the Kansas State Fair to participate in a competition.

“We got fourth out of seven,” Jundt said. “Not bad for our first time ever.”

He pointed out three colleges were in attendance, promoting their esports varsity teams.

Board member Brian Rush moved, and David Hand seconded, to establish an esports club at EJSHS.

“I like you included card games and chess,” Board President Gina McGowan said.

The group currently works with computer sciences teacher Jason Maisog.

“Right now, it’s Mr. Maisog’s volunteer time,” Superintendent Deena Hilbig said. “If the board approves esports as a sponsored club, what we do is have to notice during negotiations; they would propose for compensation. We can’t just wave a magic wand, even though we wish we had one.”

She explained the district has to establish the sponsor position during negotiations.

“This is a step-by-step process,” Hilbig said. “We have to follow the rules. You coming today is the start of that.”

She also confirmed the club sponsor and building principal must approve the game library.

“Maisog or principal always has a say in what games can be played,” Rush said.

McGowan said she is excited students took the initiative to establish the club.

“I’m excited you want to be involved and you took the time to create the new idea,” she said. “I like the idea you have a captain. I walked by one afternoon and you were all playing and practicing together in Mr. Maisog’s class.

“Even NAIA schools have esports scholarships. I think it’s something you’re interested in; it’s something new and is growing.”