Empire State Scholastic Esports Federation
Helping schools and students across New York State enjoy the benefits of scholastic esports
2023
Year Founded
115+
Schools
26,000
Estimated Student Reach
29%
Increase in Player Participation (Fall 2025)
Empowering New York Students through Scholastic Esports
The Empire State Scholastic Esports Federation (ESSEF) is a non-profit organization led and run by educators, dedicated to supporting accessible K-12 scholastic esports across New York State.
As the leading K12 scholastic esports organization in NYS, we have:
– Built a statewide educational network for scholastic esports in New York serving over 100 schools.
– Created a NYS championship pathway, organizing large scale in-person events in collaboration with collegiate partners.
– Increased scholastic participation in esports across geographic and demographic boundaries, working to ensure low barriers to entry while increasing the legitimacy of an endeavor that has changed the trajectory of students lives.
– Distributed over $5,500 worth of Nintendo online subscription and game codes through a partnership with Nintendo of America, vis a vis the Interstate Scholastic Esports Alliance.
– Led statewide professional development in partnership with BOCES and educational technology conferences, sharing vetted best practices for integrating esports directly into school culture.
– Created authentic college and career exposure. Students regularly compete at university venues and interact with collegiate esports programs.
Our Mission
Our mission is to encourage community involvement, academic achievement, and career development in youth within a safe, equitable, and inclusive environment.
Our Vision
Our vision is to help schools and students across NYS enjoy the benefits of scholastic esports.
The ESSEF Difference
Mission Over Profit
As a non-profit, we keep costs low and predictable so every school district—regardless of budget—can afford to play.
New York Focus
Our competitive schedules, state championships, and local college pathways are built specifically by NY educators, for NY school calendars.
Real Local Support
When you need help, you’re talking directly to a fellow New York teacher. We are local educators who are personally invested in supporting your program.
Compliant & School-Safe
We strictly adhere to New York EdLaw 2-d student data privacy requirements, guaranteeing that student data is protected.
Happenings
Latest News
June 2026 Update
ESSEF Alumni Association As our graduating seniors get ready to cross the stage, let’s ensure their esports journey continues. We are excited to launch the ESSEF Alumni Network — a new hub designed to help our former players stay connected and give back to the...
Congratulations to our ESSEF State Champs!
Everyone present for the Spring 2026 ESSEF Esports Championship at the Schine Center of Syracuse University on Saturday, May 2nd, was able to experience another fantastic competition among High School E-athletes. From the moment teams arrived in the early morning to...
Follow Our New York State Spring 2026 Competitors!
The Spring 2026 Championship is underway on Saturday, May 2nd. More than 15 Teams from the Empire State have qualified. Registration begins the day with matches for various Game Titles throughout the morning and afternoon. Here's a closer look: 9:00 AM - 9:30 AM:...
Upcoming Events
2026 Fall Championship
Date: December 12, 2026
Location: Syracuse University
Save the date! More information will be coming after the start of the Fall 2026 season.
ESSEF at Times Square
Date: August 23, 2026
Location: Times Square
Wonderama and ESSEF have teamed up to run a summer tournament like no other! Get ready because you’ll be playing at Times Square in NYC!
Support
Join ESSEF Today!
Become a part of the ESSEF and help shape the future of NYS esports.
At the Empire State Scholastic Esports Federation (ESSEF), we believe that the future of scholastic Esports should be shaped by the schools and colleges themselves. Educators and institutions best understand their students, school cultures, and academic goals, making them the ideal leaders in fostering an esports ecosystem that aligns with their unique needs.
From organizing tournaments and securing funding to facilitating collaborations, ESSEF equips institutions with everything necessary to independently drive their esports programs forward.
Our Partners
