Lively Claims eSports National Runner-Up Title

Decatur, AL — Calhoun eSports reached a new milestone this fall, highlighted by a historic national runner-up finish from Hearthstone standout Jesse Lively, as all four Warhawk competitors qualified for the NJCAAE National Championships for the first time in program history.

Lively delivered a breakthrough performance on the national stage in Hearthstone, a one-on-one, turn-based strategy card game where players build customized decks and face off head-to-head, relying on preparation, decision-making, and adaptability rather than reaction speed. Entering the championship bracket as the No. 2 seed, Lively navigated through a bracket loaded with some of the best competition in collegiate eSports to reach the finals. Showing poise, consistency, and strategic precision throughout the tournament, Lively advanced to the national championship match where he faced top-seeded Benjamin Barmak of Saint Louis Community College. After an impressive run, Lively finished as the national runner-up, marking the deepest postseason finish ever achieved by a Calhoun eSports athlete.

"Jesse's run was special," remarked Calhoun Head eSports Coach Dalton Counter. "The moment resonated well beyond the bracket. His national runner-up finish not only showcased his individual skill in Hearthstone, but also set a new benchmark for the Calhoun eSports program as we continues to grow and establish ourselves on the national level."

While Lively's performance headlined the championship run, he was far from alone in representing Calhoun on the national stage.

In Mario Kart, Ryan Phillips entered nationals as the No. 4 seed and put together an impressive showing, advancing all the way to round five of the lower bracket. Phillips ultimately tied for fifth–sixth place nationally, reinforcing his position among the country's top competitors.

Calhoun also sent two players to nationals in Super Smash Bros. Jason Mann, the No. 2 seed in the field, battled through the bracket before being eliminated in round five of the lower bracket, finishing eighth in the nation. Andre Rice, who entered as the No. 19 seed, saw his national run end in the second round of the lower bracket after a challenging draw.

With all four competitors qualifying for nationals and Lively's runner-up finish leading the way, the Fall season stands as a landmark chapter for Calhoun eSports. The Warhawks not only made history as a full team, but also proved they can compete and contend at the highest level of NJCAAE competition.