Valparaiso Esports Teams Achieve Playoff Success At Great Lakes Esports Conference
The Valparaiso University Esports program saw strong representation at the recent Great Lakes Esports Conference (GLEC) Playoffs, held April 12-13, 2024 at the Hall of Fame Village in Canton, Ohio. Both the Super Smash Bros Ultimate and Overwatch 2 teams secured playoff berths following impressive regular season performances.
The Super Smash Bros Ultimate team enjoyed a dominant start, boasting an undefeated 8-0 record early in the season. While facing a more challenging second half, they secured a commendable 8-4 record and a coveted sixth seed in the playoffs. However, their playoff run proved bittersweet. After a close first-round loss to Bethel University, they demonstrated resilience with a victory against Tiffin University. Unfortunately, their journey ended with a defeat to Concordia University Ann-Arbor, securing a respectable 6th place finish overall.
The Overwatch 2 team mirrored this tenacity. They concluded the regular season with a 7-4 record, narrowly clinching the eighth and final playoff spot. While facing eventual champions Cleary University in the first round presented a significant challenge, they displayed commendable spirit. Although their second match against Tiffin University resulted in a loss, they showcased their growth by avenging a regular-season defeat with a decisive win against Saint Xavier University. This impressive victory solidified their 7th place finish.
“The trip to Canton proved invaluable for both our players and the program as a whole,” remarked Graduate Assistant Henry Woofter. “The unique venue within the Football Hall of Fame stadium provided a truly inspiring atmosphere, further enhanced by the broadcast of our matches on the stadium’s jumbotron.”
With the GLEC season concluded, both teams have set their sights on the upcoming Missouri Valley Conference Playoffs scheduled for April 20, 2024. The Valparaiso Esports program looks forward to continued success in these upcoming competitions.