Immaculate eSports Team Wins Second Straight Mario Kart Title

DANBURY, CT — Immaculate High School’s eSports team captured its second consecutive state championship in Mario Kart on May 6, defeating the Sheehan Titans of Wallingford during the CIAC tournament hosted at Quinnipiac University.

The winning squad, known as the “Mustang Yoshis,” trained extensively in the lead-up to the competition and credited teamwork and preparation for their success.

“Our eSports team was on a mission and trained hard for this victory,” said Immaculate eSports Coach David Quesnell. “I told them that if we made the finals, I would get a Mario Kart tattoo – so I did. We have a tremendous team spirit which shows in our performance.”

Team member Sam Crowe of Danbury said the victory was especially meaningful for him as a newcomer to eSports. “I was looking for a new sport and started going to eSports after school. Winning was pretty cool.”

Eli Ribeiro, also of Danbury, emphasized the competitive nature of the event. “Even though eSports may not seem physical, it is just like any other sport because to win a competition we have to train and be better than the other teams.”

The CIAC tournament included multiple titles, such as Rocket League and Super Smash Bros., and was hosted in collaboration with PlayVS, an online platform focused on organizing school-based eSports competitions.

“This team trains, practices and competes just like any other athletic team here at Immaculate,” said Athletic Director Nelson Mingachos. “We’re so proud of our eSports squad for bringing home another championship.”

The National Education Association has reported substantial growth in high school eSports nationwide, with several colleges now offering scholarships for competitive gaming.