Grays Harbor College Esports Team Crowned National Champs
Posted on: Jun, 21, 2023
Grays Harbor College Esports recently made waves at the National Esports Collegiate Conference Championships, with the College’s Rocket League, Valorant, and Overwatch teams putting their skills to the test on the national stage. GHC’s Rocket League team took home the program’s first-ever national championship. GHC’s Valorant team secured an impressive third place, and the Overwatch team finished fifth in the national tournament.
The College’s Esports program is led by GHC Athletic Director, Mitchell Margaris. “To say I am proud of all our players is an understatement,” said Margaris. "Even those who did not qualify for nationals contributed by pushing each other every day and their massive support truly made a difference.”
The Rocket League team’s national title capped off a year-long effort for GHC Esports. GHC competes the National Esports Collegiate Conference, which has two seasons: Fall (September to December) and Spring (February to May). Each season has a postseason where champions are crowned. Teams earn national points based on their performance in the regular season and postseason. At the end of the Spring season, the top 32 teams enter the Group Stage, competing in groups of four. After playing against all teams in their group, the top eight teams advance to the championship bracket. In addition to the program’s first-ever national title, this year marked the first time GHC had multiple teams competing at nationals.
On the road to the national championships, GHC’s Esports athletes practiced at least twice a week and spent time reviewing film from previous matches and of upcoming opponents. The players also scrimmaged on a regular basis and many practiced individually during their free time. “Our Esports athletes put in countless hours of practice and matches throughout the entire year,” said Margaris. “They all have grown leaps and bounds in their skill and teamwork, and it was showcased in them qualifying and placing in nationals to cap off their year.”
As many of GHC’s Esports players prepare for graduation this Friday, Margaris is looking forward to what the future has in store for the program. “GHC Esports is starting to make our mark in the national scene, and I’m excited to see us continue to progress toward becoming a powerhouse in the collegiate Esports scene!”
GHC's Rocket League team consisted of Grayden Bruinier, Robert Deibert, and Christian Spencer. The Valorant team included Drew Harrison, Cate Mature, Aiden Neil, Bryce Rydman, Christian Spencer, Joey Twibell, and Josh Young. The Overwatch team included Keith Elkins, Oscar Galeana, Riyan Goetze, Audrey Kelly, Marquee Maragos, Aiden Neil, and Abby Schmauss.
To learn more about GHC Esports, visit ghc.edu/esports.