(Red Deer Catholic Regional Schools/ supplied)

By rdnewsNOW staff

Rocket League

St. Patrick’s School Esports team wins provincial title

May 16, 2025 | 4:42 PM

The St. Patrick’s Community School Celtics are Esports provincial champions.

They announced on Friday the Celtics, the school’s Rocket League team, took home the Alberta Esports Division 2 Championship.

They captured the title at the Alberta Esports Championship held at the Bow Valley College Esports Arena in Calgary from May 10-11.

Michael Saretzky, head coach of the St. Patrick’s Esports Team, said it’s been incredible to watch his team grow over the past few years and that ending the season with a win makes it even more special.

“With just one returning player, it marks both a celebration and a new beginning for the team. Competing at a post-secondary institution like Bow Valley College was a unique and inspiring experience. It gave our players a glimpse into the future and the real opportunities that Esports can provide,” said Saretzky in a media release.

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(Red Deer Catholic Regional Schools/ supplied)

The tournament is recognized as Canada’s largest scholastic Esports tournament, bringing together junior high and high school students from across the province.

Student athletes competed in popular Esports video games including Rocket League, Valorant, and Super Smash Bros. Ultimate.

“As both coach and teacher, I’ve watched these young competitors grow—not just in skill, but in character,” said assistant coach Keith Davis. “Through every match, win or lose, they’ve learned resilience, teamwork, and self-belief. Esports isn’t just about the game; it’s about unlocking the potential within, and this tournament was their proving ground. What they’ve gained goes far beyond the screen—it’s experience, confidence, and the courage to keep leveling up in life.”

St. Patrick’s also sent six players from Grades 6 through 8 to the Super Smash Tournament, which drew competitors from Grades 6 to 12.

They didn’t win this time around but the experience was invaluable. One of the St. Patrick’s players was able to reach the top 32 out of a group of over 100 players.