From USD 428
Following a standout inaugural year, the Great Bend High School Panther Esports program is expanding its facilities, roster, and game lineup for the 2026–2027 school year. Head Coach Jake Hofflinger and Assistant Coach Kindric Castro presented an update on the program’s growth to the USD 428 Board of Education on Monday, Sept. 14.
Driven by strong student interest, the program has doubled its computer and Nintendo Switch gaming stations in a newly dedicated esports room at GBHS. A total of 69 students have registered for the club for the upcoming season.
Beyond competition, district leaders and coaches emphasized that high school esports serves as a powerful vehicle for building essential 21st-century workforce skills. Participation in organized gaming helps students develop strategic thinking, rapid problem-solving, digital literacy, and adaptability under pressure. The team environment also prepares students for future career success by fostering leadership, accountability, and real-time collaboration.
During its inaugural year, Panther Esports fielded five teams across three titles: Super Smash Bros., Rocket League, and Mario Kart. Season highlights included a playoff run where one squad came within a single match of qualifying for the state tournament.
Building on that momentum, the Board of Education reviewed two new titles recently approved by the Kansas State High School Activities Association (KSHSAA) for state competition:
- Marvel Rivals: Added for immediate competition this season, this free-to-play, PC-based title features stylized comic-book action rated T for Teen. Assistant Coach Kindric Castro highlighted enthusiasm for the game's six-person team format, emphasizing that the objective-based setup strongly fosters communication, strategy, and collaborative teamwork.
- Madden NFL: Approved for future integration as student interest grows, this E-for-Everyone football simulation will offer one-on-one competitive play once roster demand supports it.
Game nights for the GBHS E-Sports Club begin on Sept. 23.
For more information about the Panther Esports program or how to get involved, please contact Jake Hofflinger at Great Bend High School at 620-793-1521.