On Thursday, January 11, the middle school Esports Team and Coach Nick Polhamus were presented certificates of recognition for competing in the Atlantic Division of the 2023 3 vs 3 Rocket League Fall Major hosted by Generation Esports. The league, playoffs and championship tournament consisted of over 170 middle school teams across the entire eastern half of the United States. The pride and dedication demonstrated by our team was evident as the students balanced school, activities, other sports, and musical rehearsals. They practiced every day after school as any other sports team would. All twelve qualified for the playoffs, and one group of 3 students went undefeated for 11 matches. These 3 students, competed for another three weeks and 6 rounds of playoffs, making it to the championships! They narrowly missed victory in a hard-fought match where each game was decided by one goal. Their second-place finish is a spectacular accomplishment and will come with medals and a plaque. But more importantly the entire team has set a standard for those that will follow. Their success is a testament to the tireless work, collaboration, and enthusiasm that Coach Polhamus instilled. Esports is in its infancy, and people are not sure as what to make of it. No matter what you call it, a sport, a club, or just video games, it does not change the fact that what we have here is a team. A team that does not quit, puts in the practice, supports each other, and does not shy away from taking ownership for what they love to do.
Congratulations to the Coach Nick Polhamus and the following students:
Jacob Alderman
Bryson Armstrong
Kentin Cortright
Mariella DeSantis
Cooper Duval
Koltan Hein
Max Ihnotic
Aven Kurtz
Anthony McFadden
Jermajesty Peeples
Mitchell Stanley
Julissa Torres