Mr. Morgan Houston, the Programming and Video Game Development Instructor at Green Country Technology Center (GCTC), is dedicated to inspiring the next generation of game developers and esports champions. His passion for real-time video games and creative problem-solving brought him to GCTC, where he has fully embraced his role. With the support of a welcoming staff, he takes great pride in teaching students the complexities of game development using the Unity Engine.
Innovative Game Development at GCTC
Houston takes pride in all of his students who undertake the challenging field of game development. Standout projects include Bava Lall, developed by second-year student Jacob Price, with significant level design contributions from first-year student Landon Barnett. Another notable project, Ultimate Arena, features functional multiplayer capabilities and is set for release this year. These projects exemplify the hard work, creativity, and teamwork encouraged in Houston’s classroom.
Green Goblins Esports: A Legacy of Excellence
In just three years, GCTC’s esports team, the Green Goblins, has made an impressive mark in the competitive gaming world, securing five State Championship titles and winning multiple tournaments. One of the most decorated players, Riley "Flare" Barnett, has won four state titles:
• 2x OKSE High School Super Smash Bros. Ultimate Champion
• 1x OKSE High School Super Smash Bros. Ultimate Crews Champion
• 1x OKSE High School Tekken 8 Champion
One of Houston’s proudest moments came when the Green Goblins secured the OKSE High School Rainbow Six: SiegeState Championship. This victory was particularly meaningful as it brought together students from HVAC, Welding, and Programming to form a cohesive and victorious team—proving that esports transcends academic disciplines.
Training for Success
Preparation is key for esports success, and Houston ensures his team is well-equipped by:
• Holding structured practices three times a week
• Encouraging students to study professional gameplay and meta strategies
• Organizing in-house bracket-style tournaments
• Connecting students with local esports tournaments, such as those hosted by WarGuts in Tulsa
Additionally, former student Riley Barnett now contributes to the community by hosting esports tournaments at GCTC, providing current students with even more competitive opportunities.
Beyond Gaming: The Benefits of Esports
Houston has witnessed firsthand how esports positively impacts students by improving attendance, GPA averages, and overall attitudes toward school. Beyond academics, esports fosters community engagement, leadership, communication skills, and valuable networking opportunities. Students also earn scholarships that pave the way for future careers in gaming and technology, making esports a gateway to lifelong success.
The Future of Esports and Game Development
With esports experiencing massive growth, Houston envisions a future where every K-12 school and college embraces competitive gaming, offering scholarships and career pathways. He emphasizes that aspiring game developers should focus on passion, persistence, resilience, and self-directed learning. With the indie gaming scene becoming more stable than AAA studios, students are encouraged to start creating games now rather than waiting for the "perfect" moment.
Expanding Esports in Post-Secondary Education
Recognizing the need for more opportunities beyond high school, Houston played a key role in establishing the Post-Secondary Tech Center Esports League (PSTCL). Working with OKSE founder Brian Morris and other tech centers, Houston helped create a competitive league for adult students. Currently, Pioneer Tech, Central Tech, and GCTC participate, with Kiamichi and Metro Tech planning to join soon. As an executive board member, Houston is committed to expanding esports opportunities at the post-secondary level.
Advice for Future Game Developers and Esports Athletes
Houston’s message to students is simple: Start now! Success in esports and game development comes from dedication and practice, following the 10,000-hour rule—putting in the effort in the right way to achieve expertise. With the wealth of online resources available, students have all the tools they need at their fingertips. By staying passionate, persistent, and resilient, they can turn their love for gaming into a thriving career.