MSSM Smash

MSSM had four varsity Esports teams compete this fall. Three teams competed in the Maine Principals' Association League, and the fourth played in a regional East Conference. We had teams play Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, Rocket League, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, and Pokémon Unite (East Conference). These games are part of organized scholastic competition and not just casual game nights. Students follow set match schedules, scout opponent details and stats, and review replays like any other varsity team.

Most players practice on their own, and this is one aspect that makes our boarding aspect great. Teams can easily practice together whenever everyone has free time. The captains help with strategy and lineups while Coach Devoe handles match-day logistics. Coach Devoe has a background in IT and can handle all technical issues as they arise. He also helps captains focus on communication and good sportsmanship.

The highlight of the season came from the Super Smash Bros. Ultimate team, the #12-ranked Penguin Punchers, reaching the first round of the playoffs against #5-ranked Lynx Smash from Mattanawcook Academy. While we lost, simply making the playoff bracket was an admirable step.

ESports offers students many of the same benefits as traditional sports, such as clear roles for teamwork, real-time decision-making, communication under pressure, and learning to support teammates. It also gives students who may not be interested in sports such as soccer, cross country, volleyball, or track and field a chance to shine.

In the future, we hope to build deeper rosters, add structured practice time, and continue to represent MSSM proudly in Maine's varsity sport scene. For now, we are proud of our four teams and the way they balanced coursework with competition. Waddle on, Penguins!