The Hartland Eagles are State Champions! This past weekend, the Hartland High School Rocket League team soared to victory at the Fall 2024 Michigan High School Esports League (MHSEL) State Championship, held at Michigan State University. Facing off against the best teams in the state, our Eagles battled through three intense rounds to secure the program’s first MHSEL State Title in Rocket League — and a place on the national stage. The competition took place on Saturday, December 7, inside MSU’s cutting-edge STEM facility. The event was MHSEL’s largest in-person gathering to date, with more than 400 players, coaches, and fans in attendance and hundreds more tuning in via livestream. The day began with an All-State Awards Ceremony and continued with quarterfinals, semifinals, and championship matches in Rocket League, Valorant, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, and Mario Kart 8 Deluxe. Hartland’s Road to the Title: Quarterfinals: Hartland opened the day facing Anchor Bay High School. In a gritty, back-and-forth series, the Eagles pulled away late to take the win 4 games to 2. Semifinals: Next up was Jenison High School, and Hartland made a statement — executing flawless rotations, tight passing, and sharp shooting in a dominant 4-0 sweep. Championship Match: The final series delivered drama worthy of a state title. The #3-seeded Hartland Eagles faced off against the undefeated #1-seeded Rochester Falcons. Despite trailing 3 games to 1, the Eagles dug deep and mounted a thrilling comeback, winning three straight games to take the series 4-3 and capture the championship in a legendary Game 7. Standout Performers: The victory was fueled by the elite play and composure of student-athletes Dylan Reinwand, James Petrucci, Tavin Flanagan, and Christian Gatien. These four players showed the resilience, chemistry, and mechanical skill that define champions, and they delivered when it mattered most. With this championship win, Hartland’s Rocket League team not only brings home a trophy, but they also earn an automatic bid into the 2025 PlayVS Cup — a prestigious national tournament held this coming Spring. The Eagles will now prepare to represent both Hartland and the state of Michigan on the national stage. "This win is a huge accomplishment for our players and program," said Coach Cameron Montney. "To come back in a Game 7 against an undefeated team shows the heart these players have. They’ve earned every bit of this moment." The event also gave students a chance to connect with collegiate esports programs, explore opportunities in STEM and gaming, and experience the energy of a live, shoutcasted championship. Congratulations again to our Hartland Esports athletes — your dedication, teamwork, and championship mindset have made the entire Eagle Nation proud. GO EAGLES! 🦅💙💛