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Garfield High esports reaches state finals in inaugural season; coaches and students push for dedicated space and equity
Summary
Coach Mister Durr and students described Garfield High School’s first competitive esports season, including a trip to the Garden State Esports Division 3 finals, scholarship pathways, plans to expand participation (including a Unified League for special-needs students), and requests for dedicated equipment and space.
Garfield High School’s newly launched esports program celebrated a successful inaugural fall season at the board meeting on Nov. 24, where coach Mister Durr outlined competitive results, student benefits and next steps for program growth.
Durr told the board that the varsity Marvel "Bridal" team reached the state Division 3 finals at Georgian Court University and that Rocket League and Super Smash teams had strong records. He highlighted scholarship and college recruitment opportunities — citing Bergen Community College and programs he said can offer between $1,000 and $20,000 annually — and described esports as a pathway into STEM, broadcasting and digital-media careers. "There’s recruitment by college programs and also it also just helps with career readiness," he said.
The presentation emphasized inclusion: Durr described plans to integrate a Unified League for MD/ACES/GAP students so those learners can participate during the school day; he also said the program follows the same sports-misconduct standards as other Garfield sports. Current limitations include equipment: the program has 10 of 12 computers set up, which limited roster sizes in the fall; Durr asked the board to consider a dedicated esports room, uniforms, and equitable coaching stipends to align recognition with other varsity activities.
Senior player Jose Ampi, who helped the team reach the state finals, described esports as a safe space for students who may be shy or not participate in traditional sports: "It gave us a team where we could show up, feel safe, and feel like we actually belong," he said. Coach Durr noted staff and community support (student team manager Amy Lee Figueroa and volunteer Mister Bischoff) and asked the board to consider streaming matches and hosting local tournaments to increase community engagement.
Board members congratulated the team and encouraged continued support. Administrators said they plan to explore dedicated space options, equipment upgrades, and possible funding or partnership routes.
