About UESL
Unified Esports League — Where Gaming Meets Growth
UESL is a San Diego-based nonprofit that uses the power of gaming and technology to help people with intellectual and developmental disabilities — including autism, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, and more — build real confidence, real friendships, and real-world skills. We believe that every person, regardless of ability, deserves a space where they feel like they belong and can genuinely thrive.
Our programs run both in-school and after-school, pairing participants with trained coaches at a 1:3 ratio so no one ever gets left behind. Whether it's competing in tournaments, learning how games are built, or simply leveling up their communication and teamwork skills — our participants do it all in an environment that's fully adaptive, fully inclusive, and fully theirs. And for SDRC clients, our services come at no cost.
We're currently operating across 7 tech centers throughout the Poway area and have already worked with 100+ participants. Our Gaming & Technology After School Program — the first of its kind in Poway, CA — is turning kids' and young adults' passion for games into a genuine pathway toward college and careers in tech. We're not just a gaming club. We're a community that sees potential in every player and works hard every day to help them reach it.
Matthew Iske is a business owner, non-profit founder, and teacher. He has been elected as a NASEF Scholastic Fellow — one of 30 people across 12+ countries developing STEAM and SEL esports curriculum internationally for in-school and after-school esports programs around the world. Matthew oversees all aspects of the operation of UESL.
Tamaz is the nuts and bolts of our organization. Among many things, he works inside and outside of the classroom to ensure the program and business run smoothly. Having met when they were just 6 years old, Matthew and Tamaz have been friends for over 20 years — and now work together to make Unified ESL thrive.
Tony is the coach of the Poway Padres, a nationally ranked adult special needs softball team. With over 25 years of experience in business and advocating for people with special needs and disabilities, Tony provides deep insight and value to help the Unified ESL program succeed.
Laura Mueller is an educational psychologist with over 15 years of experience in public school districts conducting psycho-educational assessments, providing training and guidance for staff, and working directly with students with a wide range of disabilities. She generously provides assistance and guidance to UESL in helping the organization to structure its curriculum and lesson plans.
As the President of UESL's Parent Advisory Board, Kerri helps to translate the positive impact of gaming & technology to others in our community. She is working together with her son Ruxin to champion our Gaming & Technology After School Program — the first of its kind in Poway, CA — translating youth's passion for gaming and technology into career and college pathways.
Ruxin helps to raise awareness for the power of video games. He advocates for gaming and its ability to bring our community together and help students thrive. Ruxin, among many things, is a commentator for UESL tournaments and works closely with his mom Kerri to build groundbreaking new gaming & technology programs throughout Poway.
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