Sangamon Sun

The Illinois College Blueboys began their Midwest Varsity Esports Conference (MVEC) season with a 4–0 loss to Cornell College in Rocket League. The match, held on September 15, saw Cornell secure the first two games with scores of 6–2 and 7–2. Illinois College made defensive adjustments midway through the series, resulting in closer contests in the latter half. Game three ended with a 2–0 scoreline, and game four was narrowly lost by Illinois College at 4–3.

Cornell relied on strong performances from players such as "ACU." After Illinois College shifted its strategy to limit his impact, the matches became more competitive. According to team observations, this defensive approach will be important if the teams meet again later in the season.

Individual player statistics for Cornell included Dwight "Rhunn" Duijneveld recording one goal, one assist, seven saves, and ten shots; Lucas "Commander Lucas" Barry scoring four goals with two assists and nine saves; and Glenn "ggrunner" Conway contributing two goals, three assists, six saves, and ten shots.

Illinois College is scheduled to play Buena Vista University next. Buena Vista enters the season as the preseason number one pick in the conference and is considered a leading contender within MVEC.