J’Kelyn Carroll: Madden NFL E-Sports State Champ

Icy McFall Business Manager

The E-Sports team competed in a series of gaming tournaments in December. Despite being a newly recognized sport, the team is already making history. J’Kelyn Carroll took the state champion title in Madden 21.

“I won best of three and I beat New Manchester High School,” Carroll said.

To prepare, Carroll watched videos of his opponent and took note of their strategies while building upon his own.

“I wanted to join the team because it is something I was always good at because I play in my free time,” Carroll said. “There’s no scheduled practice. I usually come after my baseball practice and play my match.”

The E-Sports team has provided a new opportunity for students to partake in a popular activity in a supportive, fun and competitive atmosphere. Additionally, there are more than thirty colleges in the

U.S. that offer scholarships for gamers and E-Sports-related activities.

“GHSA added E-Sports two years ago, and it’s an effort to try and get all the kids who participate in video games at home an opportunity to do activities at school,” Athletic Director Craig McKinney said.

“It provides both recognition and ability to compete to get the same recognition other sports do. There are also colleges giving scholarships for E-Sports and kids are making money.”

Since its start two years ago, the program has excelled and continues to do so, with plenty more room to grow and opportunities to bring forth. This is a triumph for the E-Sports team as the program builds upon itself.

If you’re interested in joining the team, spring season sign-ups will be held following the mid-winter break. The current games offered include League of Legends, Super Smash Bros, Madden 21, FIFA 21, and Rocket League.