What made you join esports?

I joined esports because my family has always been huge gamers, and I’ve gotten involved in that. I’ve been playing my whole life, really interested in it. I will definitely continue with esports in its future years because the players are all open-minded and supportive across all grades, creating a more comfortable atmosphere.

What game do you love playing? Why?

I love playing “Mario Kart” and “Smash Bros.” It’s really a complicated thing, teamwork type of stuff. I have to constantly be thinking about the game, constantly thinking about your teammates, and I like that.

How do you feel about the brand-new facility?

Really comfortable. Honestly, this is super new, really different, and I like it. The difference between the new facility and the old is massive. The new lobby is absolutely comfortable and relaxing. It definitely gives the leg room for more talking and focusing, such as the lay-back couches and comfortable PC gaming chairs. Last year, our meetings and matches were either held at the loft in the Berries library or in Mr. Packard’s classroom, leaving very little room to progress.

Who is your biggest role model?

I would say my mom. She plays whenever she comes home, and I play with her. She brought me into this.

Whenever you’re playing competitively, what goes through your mind?

I think about where my teammates are, thinking about not doing something that can harm them or cause any harm to the team. Just be aware of where my teammates are and be relaxed because we all play well when we’re relaxed. In esports, students are not represented with criticism of their capabilities or their choices because it’s not a grade; it’s a commitment to progress in the games you enjoy. With that being said, it’s hard not to get overwhelmed by it being a competitive play in something casual, but all players talking and communicating is what makes your play open-minded, as if it’s still just as fun as it is at home.