RESPAWN YOUTH
We empower students through esports to connect, grow, and thrive; utilizing play as a platform to promote critical thinking, resilience, and self-confidence. Our mission is to cultivate an inclusive community that nurtures collaboration, teamwork, and leadership. Together, we’re redefining education by meeting students where they are – in virtual worlds – guiding them to real world excellence.
We believe esports is more than just competition… it can be a catalyst for learning, connection, and opportunity. Respawn Youth strives to redefine how gaming is used in education by turning it into a platform for skill-building, mentorship, and personal growth. By bridging gameplay with real-world application, we aim to create a future where students see esports not just as play, but as a pathway to academic success, career readiness, and lifelong confidence.
Want to follow our work beyond the game? Connect with Respawn Youth on LinkedIn to stay updated on our programs, partnerships, and impact in education and youth development. Whether you’re an educator, parent, or potential partner, we’d love to connect.
Through esports, and through Tao and his team, my daughter found a space where she felt seen, supported, and challenged. She gained confidence, leadership skills, and meaningful friendships.
Travis Abraham
Education-based esports has provided more than just a place to play video games for our child - they have found a community that understands and empowers. Their confidence has grown tremendously, and for the first time, we’re seeing them taking on leadership roles and even mentoring others.
René Ridinger,
Structured esports changed everything for my son. He’s grown in focus, leadership, and confidence. He went from struggling with ADHD to leading his team, organizing practices, speaking at conferences, and even coaching younger players. He found community, purpose, and skills I never saw in traditional sports.
Kim Long
Tao and his crew are more than just instructors. They're good people. You're not just another student, but an integral part of an ecosystem. To Tao, every student, parent, admin, and community member has a voice. Tao is driven not just by results, but the positive transformation those results have on the life of his students. He is an experienced and intelligent mentor who strives to grow from every situation, whether that be a mistake, a business deal, or helping out a student who is having a hard time.
Benjamin Barnes
team@respawnyouth.com
Coach Tao has been an invaluable asset to our esports program. His guidance not only helped elevate my own coaching but also significantly improved the skills and teamwork of our League of Legends players. Coach Tao goes far beyond basic gameplay tips—he equips teams with the tools and mindset needed for meaningful growth. He consistently made time to meet one-on-one with our athletes, offering personalized feedback and support tailored to each player’s strengths and areas for improvement. Thanks to Coach Tao, our team became more focused, strategic, and unified.
Joe Ward Math teacher and esports coach at Lake Forest Academy