EPS Esports began as a student-led initiative: The McNally eSports League (the MESL). The MESL was a not for profit initiative created to bring students together over one of the current generation’s most popular pastimes; video games. Created at the start of the 2017 school year by a group of IB students, the MESL aimed to facilitate the active learning and development of vital skills such as teamwork, leadership, and confidence in an environment that is both fun and safe for students, as well as raise awareness for the numerous opportunities presented by professional esports . The MESL hosted a small League of Legends tournament within McNally that received positive reception from students. As support for the group developed, they hoped to host larger tournaments with teams from other schools in Edmonton, host charity events, and ultimately integrate esports into the EPS sports program.
Damian was involved in all aspects of MESL and assisted and directed other founders when necessary, and focused primarily on creating the rules, signage, floor plan, schedule, and contingency planning. Damian looks forward to the growth of esports in Edmonton in the future, and hopes that MESL inspires other students to grow their own passion projects. He enjoys biking, skiing, team-based and puzzle games, and listening to video game and musical soundtracks.
Damian is currently pursuing Mechanical Engineering at University of British Columbia.
Thomas took on the role of communications manager, drafting invitation letters, applying for grants and sponsorships, and organizing catering for MESL. Thomas has also participated in various public speaking roles, from tournament speeches to an interview on CBC radio about the rise of esports in schools. He enjoys playing team-based video games, and is excited to see how esports will help students develop teamwork and communication skills. He is interested in paleontology, creative writing, and over-the-top monster movies.
Thomas is currently completing a degree in Paleontology at the University of Alberta. Eventually, he hopes to work in a museum or participate in field work.
Warren played a role in producing promotional material for the league, such as print posters and promotional videos, and also assisted in tournament organization, planning, and setup. He has an interest in video editing and video games, and had previously created and broadcasted gaming content. Warren wishes to see a growth in esports around Edmonton, and hopes that the MESL/EPS esports will assist in helping esports grow and connect gamers. In his spare time, Warren enjoys working with computers, and is pursuing a career in computer science.
Warren is currently majoring in Computing Science at the University of Alberta and is looking to minor in Business.
Keman managed the MESL Discord server, assisted in preparatory work, planning for and running of the events, in addition to playing a role in dealing with technical issues. He also acted as one of the representatives of MESL for media interviews, and was the team manager/player-coach for McNally's League of Legends team. He is interested in team-based strategy games, occasional midnight strolls, and running. Keman is curious as to how esports in Edmonton will grow in the future.
Keman is currently working towards an Chemical Engineering degree at the University of Alberta and hopes to pursue a Master's degree in the future.
Geoffery was responsible for the behind the scenes operations of the league, including the setup and maintenance of the gaming equipment and venue. During tournaments he often served as one of the hosts, in addition to providing on-site technical support. In addition to working with computers and playing video games in his free time, he also enjoys cycling and exploring outdoors.
Geoffery is currently studying Computer Science at the University of Alberta and minoring in Psychology.
Sean managed & coordinated in-person MESL events through preparation, scheduling, setup and directing volunteers. He carries a passion for esports and the community it's growth can foster. His free time is spent skiing & snowboarding, playing strategy, shooter, or rhythm games, and writing/producing songs.
Sean is currently majoring in Music with a vocal specialization at Concordia University of Edmonton, and minoring in Education.