Should Schools Adopt E-Sports?

I really like the question from this past episode of PBS's "GameShow."  As someone who works in education, has experience with athletics and gaming, I feel like I can think critically about the reality of making e-Sports into an actual competitive part of the high school or college experience.  Jamin addressed this perplexing question in an episode of "GameShow" from October of 2014.  Here is the video:

The video specifically addresses League of Legends, but I think the question could be asked of any game that could be played competitively and especially games that are more co-operative in nature.  I think the idea of having competitive gaming become a sponsored school activity (whether it's at the high school or college level) sounds like a really great idea.  I think a lot of students who don't necessarily have an avenue to display their talents (they aren't into athletics or other activities) would benefit from a chance to have some sort of organized gaming competition.  It could be treated similarly to athletics with the same requirements for participation and could have designated competitions.  I think any opportunity for students to get involved, whether it's sports or could be something like gaming, has a positive impact on the lives of those kids.

Jamin pointed out the issue that many people have with labeling competitive gaming as a "sport."  Let's just call it competitive gaming and drop the "sports" designation.  I think competitive gaming is very similar to sports in the amount of dedication it takes to truly master a game...especially one that is team based.  If you don't practice working together you will have a really tough time when it comes time to perform.  I know many people scoff at "professional gaming," but it's serious business.  You don't get that good by screwing around for a few hours every night.

I think it would be really cool if competitive gaming was incorporated into schools.  There would most likely be a host of logistical issues, but just the concept is intriguing.