As the clock counts down, the players focus on the screen as they play Rocket League against teams from around the country. With the score tied at 4-4, and their hands sweaty in nervous anticipation, the players shout, “Comms!” as they head into overtime. Defending the opponent’s ball to prevent it from reaching their goals, the KMS players strive to win the Electronic Sports (Esports) tournament.
Esports is all about competition with video games via a platform called Generation. In its first year, the team has a record of 6-1 and took home the City Championship trophy.
“I am proud of the teamwork they have shown and the friendships they have built through Esports,” Mr. Dunn, sponsor, said. “This has been a really successful first year and has given the kids a place to feel welcomed. We have learned together, and they have definitely shown patience throughout the process. We are also very grateful to Thomas Electric for sponsoring us.”
Playing at home inspired Ronin Ketchum, 8th, to join the KMS team.
“I enjoy playing Rocket League in my free time,” Ronin said. “What I enjoy best about being part of the team is that I get to play with my friends and meet other good players from other schools. It’s fun to be a part of a successful eSports team.”
Hunter Marrazo, 7th, also liked matching with other schools in the video game platform.
“My most memorable match was against Ramsey,” Hunter said. “It was close, and even though we lost, it was still fun.”
Eliann Perez, 8th, joined because he likes using his high-level skills.
“When I’m playing the game, I focus well and have good hand-eye coordination,” Eliann said.
Trayton White, 8th, also values being part of the team.
“I enjoy the teamwork we do to win matches,” Trayton said.
The most memorable match for Ronin was against the Sparta Warriors.
“We beat them in a best of three,” Ronin said. “This was the first and only game we lost all season. In the one loss, we loaded in late because of a glitch, and the other team scored before we got to join our team. It threw off our game play, initially, but we came back to win the series.”
