By: Jack Tilton

The ESports team at Wesleyan is alive and growing as it just hosted its first-ever in-person event at its new facility.

About Our Rocket League Team

I interviewed a current player on the team and my friend, Louie Rivera, and he gave me insight into what goes on inside the gaming room. Louie plays the game called Rocket League, which is also known as car soccer. Rocket League is a large and growing video game that is played on either console or PC. The team consists of the senior captain, Kyan Drake Gillespie, the transfer sophomore Ezekiel Hall, and himself. The league that the team competes in is called the “NACE: Varsity Premiere”. The league is extremely competitive as the team is currently 0-2, however, each game is a battle. Last semester our team finished 1-6 reaching the rank Grandchamp 3 and two Grandchamp 2s. 

Other Teams in Our Organization

Although that might seem like a lot, that is only one subdivision of the entire ESports here at Wesleyan. For example, our team who competes in a popular game called “Apex” just placed top 17 in the whole nation last semester. Our organization here at Wesleyan offers various games for students to play and compete against other schools. 3 years ago, we had a “Rainbow Six Siege” team that ended up being top 2 in the nation! We also have teams who play well-known games like; Smash Brothers, Fortnite, Call of Duty, and Valorant. The entire community is made up of more than 35 people who compete day in and day out to put our school on the map.

Final Words

WVWC hosted its first ESports event on January 27, 2025, and it brought 140 players from across the state as they competed for the top spots for the season’s competitors. I asked Louie what he thought the plans were for the ESports team down the road and he said, “Due to the release of Marvel Rivals, we are expecting an increase in total players.” People will show a big increase in ESports here at Wesleyan and move to participate in competitive Marvel Rivals. 

Message from WVWC ESports

“We are currently recruiting for League of Legends, Call of Duty, Fortnite, Rocket League, Rainbow Six Siege, Valorant, Super Smash Brothers Ultimate, and Apex Legends.  We are also seeking competitors for individual titles.”

Coach and Contact:

Ethan Hayes, Esports Coach

304-473-8525, hayes.e@wvwc.edu

Photos: 

Instagram- @wvwesleyan 

WVWC Esports