FLCC Esports Kicks Off Preseason with High Expectations for Spring 2025

CANANDAIGUA, N.Y. - After a record-breaking fall season, Finger Lakes Community College Esports is back in action as preseason officially begins. With teams already competing in the opening weeks, the Lakers are eager to build on their momentum and set new records this spring.

One of the program's biggest strengths heading into the season is its returning core of experienced players. This is especially true for the Valorant team, which has kept much of its roster intact from the fall. Co-captain Nick Reifsnyder sees this as a major advantage, saying, "We have the opportunity to build on what we started in the fall and hopefully reach a new peak."

This semester also marks the inaugural season of Marvel Rivals, a new addition to the Esports lineup. Captain Hayley Topping will lead the team, eager to explore the potential of the game and establish FLCC's presence in another competitive title.

Among the returning players are defending champions who will lead by example for their teammates. Carl Barwald and Robert Barrett, fresh off their Fortnite Build National Championship, return to defend their title. Francesca Dean, a Rainbow 6 Siege champion, now takes on a leadership role as Valorant captain, while Joseph Yates, FLCC's Mario Kart champion, looks to add to his successful career. With these accomplished players and the guidance of the Student Leadership Board, the program is set for another exciting semester.

With players building on last semester's experience, the focus shifts toward improvement. Super Smash Bros. Ultimate lead Jakob Bamberger highlights the importance of learning from every match, saying, "Taking every loss as practice" is a mindset that has been core to FLCC Esports since its founding.

Beyond competition, FLCC Esports continues to thrive in campus engagement. While regularly facing powerhouse programs nationwide, the team remains deeply involved in the community. Head Coach Michael Van Etten praises the dedication of the program's leaders, stating, "I'm indescribably proud of all of our Esports members and the countless hours of work our Leadership Board puts into making this program the best yet!"

Later this semester, FLCC Esports will expand its outreach by hosting a first-of-its-kind Super Smash Bros. Ultimate High School Invitational in collaboration with the Admissions Office and Athletic Department during the college's open house. Details of the open house can be found here.

With nearly two dozen National Playoff appearances in program history, FLCC Esports is poised for another thrilling season. Fans can follow the action live on TwitchTV at FLCCEsports and stay updated on the latest news as the Lakers chase another championship.