FSU’s Red Rocket League Team Gets Revenge in Divisional Grand Final

FSU's Red Rocket League Team Gets Revenge in Divisional Grand Final

Apr 25, 2024 8:00 AM

Frostburg State University's Red Rocket League eSports team recently competed in, and won, the Divisional Grand Final Championship, defeating the University of Texas Dallas (UTD) Orange.

"We are proud of the efforts of the Red Rocket League Team and the eSports club at FSU," said Dr. Michael Flinn, professor and chair of the Department of Computer Science and Information Technology. "In addition to having a lot of fun, students who participate in eSports learn communication skills, time management skills, leadership skills, and more."

When the season began for the Red Rocket League team, consisting of John Lutz (JLutz), Thomas Rafferty (Miilynx) and RJ Trotman (Critters), they trio was confident in their ability to take their division by storm. However, their first league match didn't go as planned, and they were upset 1-3 by the UTD Orange team.

"Looking back, of course, it hurt when we lost, but it was the wake-up call we needed to be better, and I've never been so happy to have lost a series," said FSU's team captain John Lutz (JLutz).

Following the loss, the team regrouped and found their footing for the rest of the season, ending with a 6-1 series record in the group stage, only losing three of their next 21 individual games. The team made the playoffs, finishing directly behind the UTD Orange team.

FSU Red's momentum continued into the playoffs where they defeated the Pistols from New Mexico State University in the quarterfinals 4-0. The team went on to beat a strong Colorado State University Green team 4-1 in the semifinals to advance to the divisional grand final to face off once again against an undefeated UTD Orange.

In this grudge match, FSU Red was able to overtake their rival opponent 4-2 and bring a Rocket League Divisional Championship to Frostburg. "The team's growth this season is demonstrated in this stellar accomplishment," said Flinn.

FSU's eSports club has competitive and leisure teams for individuals interested in being part of the action. Participants have access to 10 state-of-the-art gaming rigs. "This in just one example of FSU's commitment to go beyond the classroom to provide our students with the best overall learning environment," said FSU president, Dr. Ron Nowaczyk.