The atmosphere was tense as the first match was about to begin in Marshalltown, Iowa, on Nov. 21. Like previous years, the team was playing “Super Smash Bros Ultimate” for their fall season.

In their first match against ADM, the team lost. The team was sent to the losers’ bracket to go against Waterloo East. The team won their first game, but lost their second game. In the last game, the team lost by one stock, or point.

When asked about the result, Jeff Conner, the coach of the Esports team, shared his opinion.

“I would obviously have liked to win a few more matches, but just getting to state is a huge accomplishment on its own. And I’ve honestly never felt like I had more fun and more relaxed going into a state tournament,” Conner said.

Even though the team lost early on, both the coach and the players still felt accomplished for reaching the finals after many members graduated last year.

During the winter months, the West High Esports team will hone their skills in “Mario Kart 8 Deluxe” for the spring season.