Illinois College Esports split two matches on March 14, earning a 2-0 win over the University of Jamestown in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate before falling 0-3 to Indiana University Kokomo in Overwatch.
The results are significant for Illinois College as they continue to compete for conference tournament seeding in the Midwest Varsity Esports Conference (MVEC) and maintain their presence in intercollegiate esports competitions. The Blueboys’ victory over Jamestown keeps them in contention for a high seed, while the loss to Kokomo highlights the level of competition in the National Esports Collegiate Conference (NECC).
In Super Smash Bros. Ultimate play, Illinois College won Game 1 by a score of 5–0 and secured Game 2 with a close 3–2 finish. Devin Ussery clinched the deciding point when the match was tied, helping his team sweep the series. Other notable performances included Julian Luaders with six knockouts and Jake Petrovich matching Ussery’s six KOs. The team has previously secured the Division III Midwest Championship in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, according to the official website.
Later that evening, Illinois College faced top-ranked Indiana University Kokomo in Overwatch. Despite strong efforts from Dwight Duijneveld, who recorded 66 eliminations and a KDA of 3.32, Illinois College lost three consecutive maps: Ilios (2-1), Watchpoint Gibraltar (4-3), and Colosseo (1-0). The Blueboys have also earned recognition for advancing to Grand Finals in Rocket League according to the official website.
Illinois College Blue Boys and Lady Blues Esports teams operate under Illinois College athletics using “Blueboys” as their men’s team nickname according to the official website. They are based in Jacksonville, Illinois according to the official website.
Looking ahead, both teams will face Gustavus Adolphus next week: Super Smash Bros. Ultimate on Monday at 7:00 p.m., followed by Overwatch on Wednesday at 7:00 p.m.
