The Esports team at East had to start from scratch this year with a brand new program, it has grown to have many necessities with the help of grants, prizes, and Aces support in their apparel store. The goal of having each computer have proper tools for gaming has come along a great deal, but the main accomplishment of East's Esports team is the amazing work the members of done this year.
East High's team has been ranked overall number one in Wichita, and in the top ten of the entire country.
“We couldn’t ask for a better year, we have three nationally ranked teams, practicing in the area every day, so it’s been a great year,” said Ryan Williams, the Esports Coach at East.
East Valorant team celebrates a 4-0 finish at the Downtown Valorant Exhibition. (Courtesy @EastHighESports Twitter)
When it comes to specific ranking, East’s Valorant team finished in the top eight of the country and second in the city, Rocket league ranks top 32 in the country and second in the city, Overwatch ranks top 16 in the US and first in the city, and League of Legends as well as our Smash Bros have competed in tournaments.
“I think we’re past our goals, I think we accomplished our goals in the fall and spring has just been an opportunity to keep getting better,” said Williams.
The esports team is a great opportunity for students interested in professional gaming, as Seniors from this year will go onto the next level of play with scholarships. The last competition for the year will be at WSU on May 7, but students hoping to get involved next year can begin working on their skills now so that the team can continue their success in year two.
“Our big goal for next year is to stream more so that students can see what we’re doing,” said Williams.