The Mario Kart Tournament makes its return to the school, now with rewards and a goal to inspire students and teachers alike. Last year, the tournament served as a way to gather an initial roster for the E-Sports Club. After the success of the E-Sports Club, Coach Steve Errickson chose to provide a fun experience for all. Originally he aimed to gather only students for the tournament, but after many teachers and staff showed interest in playing, Errickson chose to let everyone participate. As another incentive for competitors to try their best, he had printed a large trophy for first place, and small 3D printed mushrooms for the lower places. Errickson said, “Hopefully it will inspire more kids to join the [E-Sports] club in the future and help the club spirit in general.”

The tournament was organized in two brackets, one for teachers and one for students. Each round of the bracket would have a group of four players running a track and the top two would move on to the next round.

 Despite the competitive spirit, the tournament brings a sense of comfort and relaxation providing food and an area to relax for students to watch the later rounds of the bracket. Smith Barrionuevo (12) said, “It’s something that helps bring the community together, as even Mario Kart can help bring everyone together.”

In the final round of the student tournament, Barrionuevo, Josh Errickson (11), Dane Lail (11) and Will Blasko (11) were competing for the first place trophy. Over the course of six tracks, the group fought for their placements each determined to get first place. Despite time running out, they managed to finish all the tracks in time, revealing Lail as the winner. “It was a bit of a challenge at the end, especially going against people I knew,” Lail said, “I would love to see more of these happen, maybe even a Smash Bros one.” 

Steve Errickson hopes to turn what started as almost a tryout, into a tradition every semester for students and teachers alike to get together and enjoy playing some games.