The Michigan High School Esports Federation (MiHSEF) is a free-to-join, educator-run nonprofit organization that provides a competitive, educational, and inclusive esports environment for Michigan middle and high school students. MiHSEF hosts seasonal leagues, in-person tournaments, and offers pathways to collegiate esports and scholarships.[1]
- School Type: Open to all Michigan public, private, parochial, charter, and homeschool groups.
- Coach Requirement: Each team must have an adult coach authorized by the school.
- Administrative Approval: Schools must approve the formation of an esports team to represent them in MiHSEF competitions.
- Optional Fee: A voluntary \$100 annual fee may be paid to support MiHSEF operations, but it is not required for participation.[2]
Visit the Registration Page
Go to mihsef.org/register[2]
Complete the Registration Form
Provide:
- School/District name and type
- Estimated number of student participants
- Primary and secondary contact info
- Confirmation of administrative approval
- Team social media handles (optional)
Verification
MiHSEF will verify your registration within a few days.
Advisor Packet & Permissions
Download and complete the advisor packet, including student permission forms.
Platform Setup
Once approved, you'll receive access to the LeagueOS platform to:
- Create student accounts
- Form teams
- Register for seasonal competitions[1]
MiHSEF supports a wide range of games including:
- Rocket League (2v2, 3v3)
- Valorant
- Overwatch 2
- Apex Legends
- Fortnite
- Mario Kart
- NBA2K
- League of Legends
- Super Smash Bros.
- Rainbow Six Siege
- Madden, FIFA, Brawlhalla, and more[1]
- Fall & Spring Leagues: Two main competitive seasons each year.
- Preseason: Begins early September.
- Regular Season: Starts late September.
- Championships: Held in-person with hundreds of competitors and guests.
- Email: info@mihsef.org
- Website: mihsef.org
- Schedule a Call: Available via website
References
[1] Home - Michigan High School Esports Federation
[2] Registration - Michigan High School Esports Federation
High school esports leagues offer students the opportunity to compete in organized video game tournaments while developing teamwork, communication, and strategic thinking skills. These leagues are often run by state federations, nonprofit organizations, or national platforms like PlayVS, HSEL, or NASEF.
- School Approval: Your school must approve the formation of an esports team or club.
- Adult Coach or Advisor: A teacher, staff member, or approved adult must serve as the team’s coach or advisor.
- Student Participants: Typically open to students in grades 9–12. Some leagues also allow middle school participation.
- Technology Access: Teams need access to gaming-capable computers or consoles and reliable internet.
Choose a League
- Options include:
- State-specific federations (e.g., MiHSEF in Michigan)
- National platforms like PlayVS, HSEL, or NASEF
Create a Team
- Recruit interested students
- Assign roles (e.g., captain, coach, manager)
Get School Approval
- Submit a proposal to school administration
- Include game titles, competition schedule, and equipment needs
Register Online
- Visit the league’s website
- Fill out the registration form with school and team details
- Upload any required documents (e.g., permission slips, code of conduct)
Set Up Accounts
- Create player profiles on the league’s platform
- Link game accounts (e.g., Epic Games, Riot, Blizzard)
Join a Season
- Select games and divisions
- Pay any applicable fees (some leagues are free)
- Rocket League
- League of Legends
- Valorant
- Overwatch 2
- Super Smash Bros. Ultimate
- Fortnite
- NBA2K / Madden / FIFA
- Preseason: Scrimmages and practice matches
- Regular Season: Weekly matches over 6–8 weeks
- Playoffs: Top teams compete in bracket-style tournaments
- Championships: Often held in-person or streamed online
- Practice regularly and review game strategies
- Communicate effectively with teammates
- Follow league rules and maintain good sportsmanship
- Engage with the school community to build support