Red Deer Esports team wins provincial tournament – CentralAlbertaOnline.com

St. Patrick’s Community School Rocket League team, the St. Patrick’s Celtics have captured the Alberta Esports Division 2 Championship. 

The Red Deer team triumphed at the prestigious Alberta Esports Championship, held at the Bow Valley College Esports Arena in Calgary, Alta. from Saturday, May 10, through Sunday, May 11. 

The Alberta Esports Championship is recognized as Canada’s largest scholastic Esports tournament, bringing together junior high and high school students from across the province to compete live in popular Esports titles including Rocket League, VALORANT, and Super Smash Bros. Ultimate. The Celtics’ victory in Rocket League marks a significant achievement for the school’s burgeoning Esports program. 

Michael Saretzky, Head Coach of the St. Patrick’s Esports Team, expressed his pride in the team’s accomplishment at this year’s event.  

“It has been incredible to watch the Rocket League team grow over the past few years—not just as athletes, but as individuals. Ending the year with a win makes it even more special, especially as many of our players move on to new schools next year.  

With just one returning player, it marks both a celebration and a new beginning for the team. Competing at a post-secondary institution like Bow Valley College was a unique and inspiring experience. It gave our players a glimpse into the future and the real opportunities that Esports can provide,” said Saretzky.  

Mandy Reed, principal at St. Patrick’s Community School said the win is a testament to the team’s hard work, strategic thinking, and collaborative spirit.  

“Esports provides our students with valuable opportunities to demonstrate teamwork, problem-solving skills, and sportsmanship, and we are thrilled to see their dedication rewarded on such a significant stage.” 

Beyond their impressive Rocket League squad, St. Patrick’s was also proud to send six talented players from grades 6 through 8 to the Super Smash Tournament, which drew competitors from grades 6 to 12.  

While victory eluded them this time, the experience was invaluable, and St. Patrick’s is thrilled to celebrate a player who brilliantly navigated a field of over a hundred participants to reach the top 32. 

With information from Red Deer Catholic Regional Schools. 

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