East Helena High esports aims for national glory

After winning their fifth state title in three years earlier this spring, East Helena’s high school esports team has set its sights on the ultimate final boss: the first-ever U.S. esports national championship.

East Helena High is one of three Montana schools invited to compete in the inaugural National Association of Esports Coaches and Directors’ high school tournament, taking place June 17 in St. Louis alongside the association’s annual convention.

Teams from up to 20 states are gearing up for the national showdown, and East Helena will face off against schools with more established esports programs from states like Washington and California. While some of these schools compete as part of official athletic associations with league play and school funding, East Helena has earned its spot the hard way.