Beyond Competition: Maya Vasquez’s Leadership Journey in High School Esports
How one quiet student discovered her confidence and found her voice as an esports team manager, proving that anyone can make an impact in the gaming community.
High school can be a challenging time for many students, especially those who feel disconnected from their school’s community. For Maya Vasquez, a senior at Klein Forest High School, that was her reality—until she found a home in her school’s esports program. But Maya didn’t join as a competitor; instead, she carved out a unique and essential role as the team manager. Her journey is a testament to how one doesn’t need to hold a controller to make a lasting impact in the world of esports.
From Casual Observer to Team Manager
As a freshman, Maya’s involvement in her school’s extracurricular activities was minimal. High school, she admitted, felt like a chore. “I had that mindset like, ‘I can’t wait to get out of here,’” Her sophomore year, she started casually attending esports events, drawn in by friends and the welcoming atmosphere cultivated by Mr. Juan Duran, her cybersecurity teacher and esports coach.
It wasn’t until her junior year that Maya’s life took a significant turn. Overwhelmed with managing six competitive teams, Mr. Duran approached Maya with a proposition. “She was a good student, responsible, and wasn’t involved in other extracurriculars, I offered her the role of team manager—and some snacks as an incentive!” That lighthearted deal sparked a journey that would change Maya’s outlook on school and her place within it.
Finding Confidence Through Leadership
The transition wasn’t without its challenges. Maya initially hesitated, unsure of her role in a program she didn’t fully understand. “I didn’t know any gaming lingo or how things worked, “But Mr. Duran told me I didn’t have to—just listen, learn, and support the team.”
With time, Maya not only learned but thrived. She took charge of PlayVS match setups, managed team communications, trained other managers, and even documented match results. Her efforts turned her into the linchpin of the club’s operations. “At first, it was awkward teaching peers and having them report to me, but it turned into a fun experience. We became like a family.”
This newfound confidence extended beyond esports. In her AP Computer Science Principles class, Maya stepped up as a leader when her team struggled with a major project. “We weren’t organized, and I wasn’t confident in my programming skills, but I figured out everyone’s strengths, created a plan, and ensured we met our deadlines.”
A Supportive Esports Community and Personal Growth
Esports wasn’t just an outlet for Maya’s leadership skills—it became a gateway to a supportive community. Her role brought her closer to teammates and competitors alike, many of whom became her closest friends and led to her winning the club election to also become the program's president. “Esports broke through this huge barrier I had with social anxiety. I used to avoid people, but now I’ve won a club election and feel confident speaking to anyone.”
One of Maya’s fondest memories was organizing an end-of-year potluck for the esports club. Previous attempts had been less successful, but Maya’s careful planning turned the event into a memorable celebration. “I created a Google form, made sure everyone contributed, and we ended up with an amazing spread,”
Maya’s story demonstrates that esports is about much more than competition. Under her leadership, Klein Forest’s program has become a hub for community-building.
“Not everyone has to compete. We wanted the club to be a sanctuary where students could relax and have fun.”
-Coach Duran
Non-competitive members play an integral role in supporting the program. They practice with the teams, help with events like district-wide hackathons, and run livestreams and social media. Maya herself oversees these efforts, ensuring every member feels valued.
One of her favorite parts of being a manager is seeing the players’ reactions during matches. “It’s so fun to watch them cheer when they win or come together when they lose. They huddle around me, sharing their thoughts, and it makes me feel so connected to the team.”
Looking Ahead: A Bright Future
As Maya prepares to graduate, she reflects on how much she’s grown through esports. She’s considering a career in IT, with interests in cybersecurity and digital forensics, inspired by classes like AP Computer Science Principles and her upcoming senior-year courses. “I want to be the first in my family to attend college. It’s a huge accomplishment, and I know my coach would be proud.”
Maya’s connection to the program won’t end with graduation. She plans to volunteer at Klein Forest’s hackathons and hopes to stay involved in esports, whether as a manager or a supporter. “I can’t imagine abandoning this community.
Coach Duran couldn’t be prouder. “Esports gave her the tools to carve her own destiny. Whatever she chooses to do, I know she’ll find joy and fulfillment.
Maya’s journey is a reminder that esports programs offer opportunities for every kind of student. Whether competing, managing, or simply being part of the community, there’s a place for everyone to grow and thrive.
For Maya, the shy freshman who once saw school as a chore, esports became the key to unlocking her potential. “Esports gave me confidence, friends, and a purpose. It made school exciting. It made life exciting.”