The South Butler County School District is considering starting an e-sports team for high school students. About 43 students have expressed interest in the team.

JEFFERSON TWP — Video gaming could become a sport at the South Butler County School District.

The school board on Wednesday night discussed starting an e-sports team for high school students.

The students would practice certain advanced video games on designated computers in the high school during specific times, then compete against other schools in Pennsylvania, said Superintendent David Foley.

The team winning the state competition would move on to national competition.

“At first, I was kind of scratching my head and thinking, 'Is this a good idea?' ” Foley told the board.

But he explained that the team would give students who are not involved in sports or other activities an opportunity to excel.

Foley also cited the potential for improvement to the students' hand-eye coordination that could lead to a career in robotic surgery.

Students would build teamwork skills, as they collaborated around a computer to beat their opponent.

He said many colleges and universities are offering gaming scholarships.

The only financial impact on the district would be the necessary upgrades to the computers to be used by the team, Foley said.

An informal survey of students at the high school revealed that 43 are interested in joining the team.

“I think it would be a good opportunity for the kids,” Foley said.

Board member George Zacherl seemed skeptical, and asked Melissa Grantz, the high school's assistant principal, if the interested students can't compete against each other at home on their own time.

Grantz responded that they would not be able to compete in a team format at home.

Donna Eakin, board president, leaned toward approval of the team.

“I think it's a great idea,” Eakin said. “It's going to bring attention to children who may not be involved in other sports and activities.”

A discussion ensued among board members regarding whether activity fees would be charged to students, who would be required to pay a $60 gaming fee for the program.

The district charges a $25 participation fee to students entering a school club and a $50 fee to play a school sport.

The board appeared to agree that all students who sign up for the team would undergo the district's drug test, which is required for all students entering a club or sport.

Grantz said the closest high schools she knows of that offer an e-sports team are in Upper Saint Clair and Fox Chapel, both in Allegheny County.

Foley said the board would further discuss adding an e-sports team at next Wednesday's meeting.