The Elizabethtown Area School District has received an $80,000 state grant, secured through the advocacy of State Senator James Malone, to outfit a dedicated space for the Elizabethtown Area High School Esports program.

The funding will transform a designated area into a secure, dedicated environment where students can practice and compete without the distractions and scheduling challenges of shared common spaces. The new space will provide the team with a permanent home while supporting the continued growth of one of the District's most successful student programs.

Senator Malone visited Elizabethtown Area High School on Monday, July 13, to formally present the grant award. Accepting the check on behalf of the District were School Board President Kelly Carter, Superintendent Tom Strickler, Esports Coach Austin Henderson, and several members of the Elizabethtown Area High School Esports team.

During the visit, Senator Malone spent time speaking with members of the team, learning more about the program, their competitions, and their experiences. He also shared his own interest in gaming as a teenager, creating an engaging conversation with the student-athletes.

"We are incredibly grateful to Senator Malone for recognizing the value of our Esports program and the opportunities it creates for students," said Superintendent Tom Strickler. "This grant will help us provide a dedicated space where students can develop meaningful skills, build lasting relationships, and prepare for success both in competition and beyond."

Founded in 2018, the Elizabethtown Area High School Esports program has grown to include 32 students and competes through the Pennsylvania Interscholastic Esports Federation and the Pennsylvania Scholastic Esports League. Despite practicing without a permanent space, the team has earned Pennsylvania Interscholastic Esports Association (PIEA) State Championships in Overwatch and Marvel Rivals, and three graduating seniors have received esports scholarship offers.

The Elizabethtown Area School District extends its sincere appreciation to Senator Malone for his advocacy and investment in opportunities that support student success. The new Esports space will provide student competitors with a dedicated environment where they can continue to build teamwork, communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills while proudly representing Elizabethtown Area High School.