Headless eSportsmen Complete Their First Season

Off the field and into the classroom, Generation Esports is a virtually action packed way competitors develop communication skills, problem solving, coordination, strategy development, and creative thinking while working as a team.

Sleepy Hollow Middle School introduced the Middle School Esports League (MSEL) in the fall. Since each team member needs their own Switch, only two students were chosen by Science Teacher Michael Garguilo, who runs the program. MSEL aims to harness students’ enthusiasm for video games by offering structured competitions in a secure environment, alongside valuable academic opportunities. The students joined the East Coast League that is made up of 64 teams, a total of 3,150 athletes.

Keith Coronel, an eighth grader, and Finlay Albright-Cook, a sixth grader, were chosen for the team of “Headless eSportsmen” because they demonstrated both the leadership and technical skills necessary to not only build the team but represent their school when competing against other districts throughout the country.

The Headless eSportmen competed in "Smash Bros Ultimate" on the Nintendo Switch against other students and had a successful first season.

“Keith was able to win enough matches to make the playoffs. He was able to end the Spring season with a record of 4 wins and 1 loss and ranked in the top 30,” said Mr. Garguilo. “The first time Keith won his match, we were just so happy and proud.”

Keith and Finlay both agreed that just like in traditional sports you need to work hard to see results.

“We practice at home, when we have time,” said Keith.

Mr. Garguilo hopes to expand the program next year so more students can have a chance to be part of the team.