For individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), finding a space where they can connect, grow, and belong isn’t always easy. The Unified Esports League (UESL) was created to change that—using gaming as a tool for education, community, and personal development. NASEF is proud to elevate and empower the work of UESL, which is a NASEF affiliate. Matt Iske, UESL Founder, is a NASEF Scholastic Fellow. He developed a curriculum, Overcooked 2 - Learning Game Skills, Teamwork, and Communication for Special Needs Individuals, which is available for free download in the NASEF Community Library.

UESL is more than just an esports program; it’s a movement redefining how technology and gaming can serve the IDD community. Through individualized coaching, team-based gameplay, and structured technology education, UESL provides a space where players can build friendships, gain social + emotional skills, and explore future career opportunities—all while having fun and making friends.

UESL operates in California throughout San Diego and Imperial Counties, providing individuals with IDD the chance to learn, play, and compete in an environment tailored to their needs. They emphasize inclusion, skill-building, and personal achievement, offering programs such as:

● Esports Training + Competition – Teaching players strategy, teamwork, sportsmanship, and self-regulation in an adaptive, supportive setting.

● Individualized Technology Education Plan (ITEP) – A UESL-exclusive framework that utilizes gaming, VR, and digital tools to enhance communication, motor skills, and problem-solving.

● Community + Social Integration – Encouraging meaningful friendships and connection through unified play with neurotypical and IDD players.

● Tournaments + Events – Hosting inclusive gaming competitions, like our recent collaboration with San Diego FC, where UESL players got to compete in EAFC25 alongside pro MLS athletes and fans.

UESL Client Stories: In Their Own Words

Finding Friendship + Belonging: Thomas’ Story

Thomas, a longtime UESL participant, was struggling to find social spaces where he felt understood. Gaming had always been an escape for him, but it wasn’t until he joined UESL that it became a true pathway to connection. "I never really had a lot of people to play with before UESL. Now, I have friends who actually want to game with me and talk to me. It feels really good to be part of a team." Thomas’ story is one of many that highlights the power of community in esports. Through the UESL program, he has developed confidence, communication skills, and a supportive group of friends—both online and in person.

A Parent’s Perspective: Gaming as Growth

One of the most powerful testimonials comes from a parent whose child has been involved in UESL for over a year. "Before UESL, my son Josh struggled with communication and expressing his feelings. Through gaming, he has learned patience, teamwork, and problem-solving. I never thought video games would help him grow so much, but now I see how important this program is for kids like him." Esports provides real-life learning opportunities that extend far beyond the screen. Whether it’s learning how to manage emotions, work as part of a team, or develop new skills, gaming has become a tool for transformation in the lives of many UESL participants.

Partner With UESL to Expand Access to Inclusive Esports

UESL is proud to be a San Diego Regional Center vendor, welcoming new clients at all locations, new vendor collaborations to establish community resource connections + client referrals. Additionally, they are actively partnering with schools and districts to bring UESL programs to new locations, creating safe, engaging esports spaces where students of all abilities can learn, play, and connect. If you're a regional center professional, educator, or community leader, they'd love to collaborate! If you’re an IDD gamer or family member, the UESL team is standing by to answer your questions and get you connected to this supportive community. Ready to work together? Want to get involved? Interested in learning more? Email their team directly at [email protected] and visit the Unified Esports League at UnifiedESL.com.