The panel will address the educational potential of competitive video games that emerged while conducting the LEGA SCOLASTICA ESPORTS initiative: a national competition between high schools based on competitive video games that offered, to teachers and students, a significant hands-on experience on esports, both in terms of soft and hard skills. By leveraging interest in video games, the initiative provides a natural pathway for students interested in the world of technology, STEM disciplines, communication, and video game development, while also helping them develop soft skills such as teamwork, strategic planning, effective communication, and leadership. Esports also becomes an inclusive and engaging time for all students, including those who would otherwise not participate in any extracurricular activities