Esports: Mt Roskill Grammar aiming high again in High School League

League of Legends is the game on offer in the High School League. Photo / Getty

Mt Roskill Grammar School earned two High School League Premier Division championships last year and they expect more of the same in 2018.

They've experienced minimal roster turnover and their captain Vinson "Kedu" Feng, a former full-time professional, has returned to school to help his team and finish his studies.

Kedu played as the AD Carry for Team Regicide in the OPL last year and brings a high level of experience to his team.

Mt Roskill has been one of the great success stories since the HSL was launched.

Danny Chang, the teacher in charge of esports at the school, said more students were keen on getting involved in gaming.

"The success of our team and student popularity have definitely improved the interest in esports in students and staff," Chang said.

As for 2018, the expectations were clear among their top team who have opened with two wins from as many games.

"We want to add another crest onto the shield."

As they look to build depth in gaming at their school, Chang said he hoped the more experienced players would provide advice and guidance for the younger gamers coming through the ranks.

The HSL has continued to grow in popularity and this year there's 29 entrants in the Premier Division from across New Zealand and 45 in the second-tier Challenger Division.

League of Legends is the game on offer and Mt Roskill have proven a dominant force winning both splits last year.

Mt Albert Grammar School were their opponents in the final for the second split and have emerged as a strong rival for Mt Roskill.

"Having them as our opponent in the finals definitely motivated our team," Chang said.
Mt Albert will be looking to build on the momentum of making the final in last year's second split.

They will meet Kings College in tonight's televised game on Sky Sport 2 at 5pm in what serves as an exciting clash. People can also follow the match online via Twitch.

This round is the third of the latest split and the competition is using a Swiss-system format across seven rounds to accommodate the large number of teams.

There will be three weeks of playoffs to crown a new champion.