Silver Creek senior Benjamin Layton is pictured at the Empire State Scholastic Esports Federation Championships at Syracuse University. Submitted Photo

SILVER CREEK — On June 7, students from across New York state gathered for the largest high school esports competition in the state at the Syracuse University Esports Lab for the Empire State Scholastic Esports Federation Championships.

Competitors battled in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate (solos and trios), Valorant and Rocket League.

Representing Silver Creek High School, senior Benjamin Layton qualified for Super Smash Bros Ultimate Solos semifinals, where he faced Peyton Gray of Bethlehem Central High School. The competition atmosphere was electric with professional-grade gaming chairs, massive screens, and LED lights created an unforgettable environment, with the Silver Creek Esports logo proudly lit up on the digital banner.

Layton’s match was broadcast live nationwide and drew cheers as he took the stage. Though nerves got the best of him in the first round, he rallied in round two with an impressive spike. Each round was a hard-fought battle, but ultimately, Layton fell in three rounds to his skilled opponent.

When asked about his experience, Layton said, “It was a surreal moment, and I was thrilled to play the game I love in front of a large crowd. The elite setup at Syracuse made me feel like I had truly made it.”

Even in defeat, Layton made the most of his time by connecting with some of the top figures in the esports community, laying the groundwork for future opportunities in this rapidly growing field. Coach Anthony DiGennaro expressed gratitude for Layton’s opportunities.

“We are so proud of Ben and all of his accomplishments and would like to thank Syracuse University for hosting this amazing event. We are thankful for this opportunity and look forward to seeing this program grow across the state,” DiGennaro said.

Ben plans to attend SUNY Canton in the fall, majoring in esports business management and plans on playing for Canton’s esports team.

“We are incredibly proud of Ben for representing our school with talent, poise, and professionalism on the state’s biggest stage,” Coach Josh Sadler said.

Schools interested in participating in esports are asked to reach out to Sadler at jsadler@silvercreekschools.org.