By Thomas Wilson / Staff Writer

A record-setting season has positioned the Missouri Valley College esports program for continued growth.

First-year head coach Julian Henderson has played a key role in the program’s success.

“My objective this year was to have all of my teams compete nationally, and that’s what they’ve achieved,” Henderson said. “I can’t say enough about the accomplishments of my team members.” 

When speaking of the future, Henderson stated that he sees a successful expansion within the esports program at Missouri Valley College. 

“What I see is an expanding esports program here at MVC,” he said. “Esports are becoming very popular among college students, and I’d love to cultivate that here.” 

According to the players, signs of development have already started manifesting themselves through competition. 

Dominic Hoskin, Rocket League team captain, explained that this season the team had performed at its best. 

“We got placed in Division 3, which is our highest-ever placement, and we made it into the quarterfinals of nationals,” he said. 

The team had also shown strength against other programs, which were better-funded. 

“We’ve defeated many universities with bigger programs than ours,” Hoskin said.

Growth of the program can also be seen from new titles such as Marvel Rivals, where the team was put together competitively. 

Team captain Peyton Pinter said that his taking up the mantle was aimed at building the team.

 “I told my coach that I’d take anyone he had and build a team from him,” he said. 

Communication and preparation were among Pinter’s strengths. 

“Regardless of whether we lose the game, we discuss what should be done to make things right,” Pinter said. 

In terms of the upcoming challenges, the players have lofty expectations.

“We’re now going into the national semifinals; our main goal is to win a national championship cup,” he said. 

After an accomplished season, the Missouri Valley esports team is in a strong position to grow further.