With esports being one of the fastest growing sports in the world, Riordan knew they needed to start their own team and begin
dominating their opponents. The esports team started after former student Santiago Maldonado ’24 brought up the idea to Social Science teacher Cory Nelson.

Nelson discussed this with Assistant Principal of Student Affairs Brian Kelly, who agreed that it was a good idea.

Nelson said, “The first year everyone had their own equipment and we did our best.”

And their best it was. The first year paved the way for future Crusaders to join the esports team.

Later on, the Varsity Mario Kart Team won the West Regional Championship, and even placed Top 8 in the nation.

Practices happen just like any other sport, after school for a few hours, four days a week. They run from 3:30 to 5:30, where the players practice their gaming skills on their respective games.

A program called Valor helps them train these skills, offering support, structure, and trackable progress.

The team consists of a Smash Brothers team of four, two – four person Mario Kart Teams, one – six player Marvel rivals team, two – five player Valorant teams, and one – five player league of legends team.

It’s no doubt that the esports team has grown both in the game and on campus.

Veteran member, Fetuali’i Lae ’27, said he joined originally to play Overwatch competitively because “I’m the goat at that game.”

After being on the team for a while, Fetuali’i said, “I tried to leave but Mr. Nelson just has a way of finding me and swaying me to join.”

Being the moderator and coach, Nelson has had a deep connection with video games, stemming from his youth, and mainly enjoys the
activity because of the community.

“Being part of a growing program that has potential for success is really amazing,” said Nelson.

Anyone has what it takes to play competitively as long as they are there to have fun.

Lae said, “Skills don’t matter as long as you join with the ability to grow as a person and as a team player.”