Hoboken High School closed out a memorable esports season by earning a place in the Super Smash Bros Crew Championship finals. The varsity trio of Josiah Damkins, Sean Quinn, and Ethan Sikernitsky, with coaching from Adam Anderson and support from assistant coach Sam Thomas, represented the school throughout the playoffs. The final finish stands as one of the most notable achievements since the program began.
Esports, commonly referred to as electronic sports, continues to expand across schools nationwide. Hoboken’s achievement shows how organized esports teams are now becoming a regular part of school activities. Thousands of high schools take part in official esports leagues, and hundreds of colleges run competitive programs that may include financial support for players.
- Hoboken High School’s Super Smash Bros Crew Esports team finished as finalists after a full championship playoff run.
- The Redwings defeated Woodbury High School and top-seeded Clayton before facing Hopatcong in the finals.
- Two players met with college esports recruiters following the championship match.
Strong Playoff Performances Lead to the Championship Match
Hoboken began the postseason with a strong victory over Woodbury High School, advancing to the next round to face Clayton, the tournament’s top-seeded team. The Redwings secured a win in a challenging match, earning a spot in the championship finals.
The championship match brought a rematch with Hopatcong, a team that had previously defeated Hoboken during the regular season. In the opening game, Hoboken took control early as the team built pressure through coordinated play. The game remained close until the final moments, when Hopatcong edged ahead with a last-stock finish.
In Game 2, Hopatcong again held the advantage behind its Luigi player, who defeated all three Hoboken players while conceding only one stock. The results concluded Hoboken’s playoff run with a finalist finish.
Growth, Recognition, and New Paths Forward
Even with the finals loss, Hoboken’s postseason run showed evident progress in teamwork, planning, and in-game decision-making. The effort also opened new doors, as two players spoke with college esports representatives after the event, beginning early talks about future competitive opportunities.
Throughout the season, school administrators recognized the commitment and effort shown by the team. Athletic Director Jack Baker spoke highly of the players’ focus, steady mindset, and determination during the playoff run. Principal Robin Piccapietra also praised the students for working well together, staying disciplined, and representing Hoboken High School with pride both on and off the screen.
Hoboken High School congratulated the students and coaching staff on a successful season and pointed to the continued growth of the esports program.
