Wizards Esports makes history at State Championships

The Washingtonville High School Wizards Esports team made program history at this year’s Empire State Scholastic Esports Federation (ESSEF) State Championships, held at Syracuse University’s state of the art gaming and Esports Center on June 7. The event brought together more than 70 of New York’s top high school players in a dynamic environment complete with spectator seating, massive monitors and live-streaming setups. 

Among the standout performances, WHS junior Edwin Charriez, known in-game as “Tabpol,” was crowned the State Champion in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, marking the first-ever State Champion title for the Wizards!

The team also secured second place in both the Smash Bros. team competition and Rocket League. Additionally, the Wizards were recognized for their exemplary sportsmanship and leadership. The ESSEF Esports Integrity Award for Spring 2025 was awarded to the event’s shoutcasters, including Washingtonville’s own Liz “Wyvern” Montroy and Eddie “BigShnoz” Gorcyznski, in recognition of their courage, conduct and professionalism.

This spirit of encouragement was palpable during Edwin’s final match. The most memorable moment didn’t come from a fancy play, but from a familiar voice in the crowd. 

“Coach Cal loves to start chanting my tag whenever things get intense or I’m doing well,” Edwin said. “It’s honestly really embarrassing, but also kind of comforting. It reminds me that there are people rooting for me.” 

Soon, others in the crowd joined in. His championship match was a clean sweep. Edwin “three-stocked” his final opponent, defeating them without losing a single life, after advancing through one of the most competitive brackets the tournament has seen.

Edwin has been with the esports team since his freshman year, serving as the team captain for Smash Bros. and club president. For him, the program has been about more than just competition. 

“I’ve definitely matured more as a player, and that’s really what I value in esports,” he said. “My second priority is becoming the best player I can be. But my top priority is being a better person. I’ve seen how toxic some communities can be online, and I want to make this one better before I eventually leave it.”

The Wizards’ transformation from a casual gaming club to a top-tier competitive team reflects the growing presence of esports in schools across the country, and the Wizards are proud to be a part of that movement.

Congratulations to Edwin and the entire team for taking Wizards Esports to the next level!