From left: Coach Tim Danielson, starters Jackson Rosenow, captain Hunter Kapala, Chloie Woods, and Coach Augustin Rodriguez. Not pictured Coach Marissa Rodriguez and starter Xzaviar Spore
Spartan News is a presentation of Mason County Central School District in partnership with Mason County Press.
SCOTTVILLE — In a back and forth match that had several lead changes, The Mason County Central Mario Kart eSports team beat No. 5 Jenison to advance to the in-person state championship rounds. The Spartans lost to Jenison earlier in the season and started off their playoff match down 0-1. With the 2-1 come from behind victory the MCC team will now travel to Michigan State University in East Lansing on Saturday December 6 for the quarter final and championship rounds.
“The coaches are so incredibly proud of the team,” said co-coach Tim Danielson. “They really came together the last couple of weeks and improved their communication and teamwork. Knowing that Jenison beat us earlier in the year, it was awesome to see them cheering, crying, and hugging each other after the win.”
Following a couple of practice scrimmages next week, the No. 12 ranked Spartans will race against No. 4 Woodhaven in the quarterfinal match. The winner could face the #1 ranked Novi in the semifinal round.
“There were technical difficulties with our stream and I was too scared to change anything because the team was so in the moment and had so much energy. They were so in the zone and I didn’t want to ruin it. That is why we never got the stream never fixed,” said co-coach Marissa Rodriguez.
The Michigan High School Esports League (MHSEL) will hold their in-person championship rounds on Saturday , December 6. The opening ceremonies start at 9 a.m. at the Michigan State University STEM center. The championships matches are free to attend and open to the public.
Woods named to all-state team
In related news, MCC sophomore Chloie Woods has been named to the Michigan High School Esports League All-State team for Mario Kart. Woods was nominated by Coach Danielson. “The All-State recognition does not necessarily automatically go to the best players in the state, ” Danielson said. “Rather, this award recognizes student athletes who are top players on their team, but are also team leaders, mentors, have good sportsmanship, and exemplify the qualities the MHSEL looks for from their athletes. There are only seven Mario Kart Players from the whole state who make the All-State team. We are extremely proud of Chloie for earning such a prestigious award.”
In Addition to earning All-State honors, Woods also received All-Academic honors for having all As and Bs last trimester with a 3.64 GPA.
“This amazing group of student-athletes has shown that they’re among the very best in Michigan,” said Megan Luther, MHSEL Co-Director. “Each of these individuals is truly deserving and represents the excellence of high school scholastic esports across the state. We can’t wait to celebrate them!”
Woods and her family and coaches are invited to the MHSEL State Championships at Michigan State University on December 6.
to celebrate her receiving her award. The awards are presented during the opening ceremonies before the championship rounds.
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