From the digital battlegrounds of 'League of Legends' to the bustling streets of Japan, two members of the Stockton Esports team recount their journey of friendship, competition, and adventure. Dive into their experiences and discover how a shared passion can forge bonds beyond the screen.
Story by: JAMES CALABRESE
JAMES CALABRESE
Freshman year was a maze of possibilities. Among the avenues open to me was Stockton's thriving esports scene—a world I was eager to explore. I'd always had a peripheral awareness of the Stockton Esports program, but my decision to actually try out came in the spring, coincidentally as the world was finding its feet post-COVID.
The outcome? The birth of the Stockton Blue Team, comprising Dylan, Jubayad, Nathan, Khoa, and me. Initially, our connection was purely based on our shared love for 'League of Legends'. But as weeks turned into months, our rapport grew deeper. While our first competitive season had its fair share of challenges, our indomitable spirit ensured we evolved and matured as players. Guided by our dedicated coaches, Frank and Kiho, our team hit a crescendo in the Spring 2023 season with a stellar 12-1 record. The sting of our last defeat, however, was a poignant reminder that there's always room to grow.
But the boundaries of our friendship extended beyond the confines of the game. A testament to this was our whirlwind trip to Japan. What began as a spontaneous invite from Dylan transformed into an unforgettable adventure. Together, Jubayad, Nathan, and I marveled at Japan's rich tapestry, from iconic landmarks to its flavorful gastronomy. As I reflect on this journey, it's hard to believe it all began with a simple tryout for a 'League of Legends' team. Life, indeed, works in mysterious ways.
nATHAN nHAN
For many, 'League of Legends' is just a game. But for Dylan and me, it was a portal to unforgettable experiences and enduring friendships. Our shared journey in the LoL esports universe began during our early years at Stockton. A year into our respective forays, destiny brought us together with Jubayad, James, and Khoa. Over the next few months, the five of us transformed from mere teammates to a close-knit family.
Our shared meals, candid chats, and countless hours of strategizing fortified our bond—a bond that reflected beautifully in our gameplay. Our 12-1 run in our sophomore ECAC stint stands testimony to our synergy. While our loss in the championship was a setback, it was also a learning curve, a beacon guiding our path to further growth. But the highlights of our friendship weren't confined to the gaming realm. Our trip to Japan was the stuff of dreams. Dylan and I had always fantasized about visiting the Land of the Rising Sun, and sharing this experience with our team was beyond surreal. Together, we immersed ourselves in Japan's vibrant culture, forging memories that we'll cherish for a lifetime.
Story by: jAMES cALABRESE
JAMES IS an undergraduate COMPUTER SCIENCE MAJOR at Stockton WITH a passion for esports that led him to the heart of the school's competitive League of Legends scene. Beyond his gaming prowess, James possesses a keen sense of adventure and camaraderie. His journey, from fresh-faced freshman to seasoned player and traveler, offers a unique blend of competitive spirit and personal growth.