(EL PASO INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT — Dec. 12, 2025) — The Andress High School esports team is celebrating a major victory after winning the Texas Scholastic Esports Federation State Championship in Street Fighter 6, defeating Amarillo AmTech Academy in the final round. The win marks a milestone achievement for a program that began as a small student gaming club and has since evolved into one of the campus’ most engaging and fast-growing STEM-aligned activities.
The championship victory comes during Computer Science Education Week, underscoring El Paso ISD’s commitment to expanding opportunities that build digital skills, foster teamwork, and prepare students for emerging careers in technology.
The esports program at Andress began several years ago when English instructor, Adrian Sifuentes, created a small gaming club. Originally focused on tabletop games like Dungeons & Dragons, the club, called Andress Game and Geek, expanded as student interest grew.
“I’ve noticed that a lot of kids, who are not social, join this club, and later, I see how they changed and how they became more social and started making new friends,” Sifuentes said.
Recognizing the potential, Principal Ruben Alarcon worked with Sifuentes and co-sponsor Brandon Hernandez to transform the club into a full esports program, complete with high-performance equipment, gaming chairs, and a dedicated game lab on campus.
Today, the program is open to all students, welcoming participants from diverse backgrounds and skill levels.
“I really love this club, it’s really inspiring to see what’s going on here. I really love gaming, and I love the club. The environment is very relaxed and it’s a great way to make friends and wind down after the school day,” said Samuel Quinunez-Flores, a student at Andress High School.
Instructors emphasize that esports isn’t just about playing games. Students learn:
• Teamwork and communication
• Strategic problem-solving
• Reflexes and hand-eye coordination
• Leadership, as experienced players teach and mentor new members
• Academic responsibility, since students must maintain good grades to participate
Many competitive leagues — including the Texas Scholastic Esports Federation — operate with UIL-style expectations, helping reinforce discipline and academic focus. Some tournaments also provide opportunities for scholarships, prizes, and statewide recognition.
The Andress esports program also promotes strong peer connections. Students cheer each other on, encourage teammates through wins and losses, and create a supportive, family-like atmosphere.
For many students, esports becomes their entry point into the world of computer science — aligning perfectly with EPISD’s goal of expanding access to digital learning, future-ready instruction, and STEM pathways.
Esports is one of the fastest-growing fields linked to careers in:
• Computer science
• Game design
• Software engineering
• Cybersecurity
• Digital media
• Network technology
The Andress esports members are now planning to enhance their game lab, continue competing at high levels, and grow mentorship roles within the club. For many students, the program has become a place where they build confidence, friendships, and a sense of belonging.