The Penfield Esports team electrified the Empire State Scholastic Esports Federation State Tournament in Syracuse, New York on December 13, 2025, battling their way to an impressive third-place finish in a high-stakes competition that featured over 16 schools and 250 players and guests.

The action unfolded inside Syracuse University’s cutting-edge gaming lab, where massive screens, roaring crowds, and live cameras created an atmosphere rivaling professional esports arenas. Local colleges were on hand scouting talent, adding even more intensity to the event.

Penfield’s Marvel Rivals squad came out swinging, surging to a 2-1 series lead against Queensbury—the eventual state champions—before falling in a nail-biting comeback. One of the tournament’s most electrifying moments came when William Gillen-Brimacomb and Noah Bliss executed a flawless strategic attack, wiping the enemy team and sending the Penfield crowd into a frenzy.

“This team has heart, skill, and the drive to win,” said Coach Smith, who, alongside Coach Fichera, has been gaming since childhood and now leads Penfield’s rapidly growing program. “We started with just six players and one game. Now we’re competing in three titles with over 35 dedicated athletes.”

Penfield Esports isn’t just making waves in Marvel Rivals. Their Overwatch 2 team recently claimed 4th place in the Eastern U.S. region, proving they’re a force to be reckoned with on multiple fronts.

Looking ahead, the team has its sights set on winning the New York State title for Marvel Rivals and crushing the Eastern bracket in Overwatch 2 this spring. With a roster packed with talented sophomores and juniors, and coaches who live and breathe gaming, Penfield Esports is poised for greatness.

To learn more about potential career pathways for students engaged with Esports teams, visit the Network of Academic and Scholastic Esports Federations website.