E for Everyone

By Amber Knox

 

“A good coach can change a game. A great coach can change a life.” – John Wooden

In December of 2023, Floyd Schools introduced esports (electronic sports) as an activity for students. Mr. Trujillo, who became the science teacher at Floyd in 2021, wears many hats, as teachers at a small school often do. Trujillo stepped in to teach the freshmen math class for nine weeks, teaches a high school PE class, is a class sponsor, and has coached the academic team for three years. Aware of his involvement and love of gaming, Mr. T. (as everyone calls him) was asked during a parent-teacher conference if he would be willing to help start an esports program.

Mr. T agreed to help gather information about other esports programs in the area. The parents believed that a staff member agreeing to be the coach would help persuade the school board to approve the program. Never having coached an esports team and claiming not to be an expert at any of the games, he took on the challenge and added another hat to his collection. Speaking before the board at the reconsideration of the program Mr. T left the meeting as the new coach. The program was approved and added in December 2023, with the first season beginning in January 2024.

Initially, the school purchased the necessary equipment to get the program up and running. The students have since done their own fundraising and received support from the Booster Club. Mr. T led the gathering of business sponsors, helping to provide each player with a jersey. The six players who competed at the state competition received personalized hoodies with their gamertags on the back.

Style isn’t the only cost, continued fundraising is necessary due to the rising cost of electronics and frequent upgrade cycles for the consoles and PC components. Provided by the school the team currently has five Switches, five gaming monitors, one streaming PC and GPU, and one capture card. Provided by the Booster Club they have one PS5 and one monitor. Equipment purchased through fundraising includes one PS5 and one monitor. Seven extra school monitors are being utilized and each of those have a Switch Dock purchased through fundraising. Mr. T has also purchased additional miscellaneous equipment to aid in streaming after school.

When Mr. T was asked about the benefits of adding such an expensive program to the school, he said, “The greatest benefit of our esports program is that it provides students with another opportunity to interact, communicate, and compete with their peers. Not all students are interested in traditional sports, but many were excited about the addition of an esports team. Being part of the team requires students to manage their time effectively. For some, it was their first time being on any kind of team, so they had to adjust to balancing school responsibilities with game time. Through esports, students develop skills in strategy and critical thinking. They must learn the game they’re playing and adapt their play style in real-time to make adjustments against their opponents.”

In 2024, they received Class 1A State Runner Up – Team Overall, and this season, they achieved Class 1A State Champion – Team Overall, Class 1A-2A Super Smash Bros Ultimate State Champion, and Class 1A-2A Mario Kart 8 Deluxe – 3rd place.

However, success is not just happening in the esports arena; Mr. T says, “From a teacher’s perspective, I’ve seen a slight improvement in student behavior since starting the esports program. Missing assignments have decreased, and overall accountability has gone up. One of the biggest changes I’ve noticed is the growing acceptance of esports within the school community. At first, there were small jokes about video games being ‘just a hobby.’ But as we began to succeed, others started to recognize the time, effort, and commitment it takes to compete at a high level. This year was our most successful season statistically, and with a State Championship already under our belt, I’m excited to see how that success might impact next year’s participation numbers.”

Many parents believe that the success of the program is a reflection of Mr. T and his leadership.

“Mr. T has dedicated so much time to these students and the esports program. You can tell he really cares, and I’m so happy for their success!” said Rebecca Gossett.

“He doesn’t just teach or coach-he sparks beliefs, builds goals, and helps students chase more. He levels up minds and mindsets on the scoreboard and beyond!” said Jennifer Cain

“I have seen Esports have a noticeable positive impact at Floyd. We have some introverted and shy kids who I have seen become more outgoing. They found a safe space in Esports where they can build friendships, express themselves, feel valuable, and manage social anxiety by pushing themselves in competition with others.  I believe this has helped boost their overall confidence, and it shows outside of the Esports room. I see them navigating social situations better and showing improved communication skills with their peers and adults. All of this would not be possible without a strong leader. Mr. Trujillo has fostered a culture of community. He is a mentor to each student, offering strategic expertise, encouragement, and a culture of accountability. Under his guidance the Esports team has grown not only in their skills but in character. He’s shown them that every setback is a lesson, every challenge an opportunity, and every victory a shared achievement. He is the heart of this team. The immense respect and trust his players have for him shows in their drive to obtain success not only for themselves but for him.” said Lauren Burns.

“It’s been known since the beginning of time . . . A team is a reflection of its coach! Coach Trujillo (Mr. Cheese) would never claim this esports team’s success has anything to do with him, but it does! So, WE thank him for all he’s taken on, has done and will continue to do! Leadership matters! Esports has brought Floyd so much more than any of us could’ve imagined! Congratulations to every Floyd Esports player and Coach T, 2025 NM 1A ESPORTS STATE CHAMPS!” said Tiea Bustamante.

 

The program is growing quickly. Middle and high school teams compete, and students range from grades 7 through 12. By the end of the 2025 season, 21 high school students and six middle school students were on the roster, with ten of the players also participating in school athletics. Sixteen of the players are boys, and five are girls.

 

Currently the team is stationed in Mr. T’s science classroom, “While we are currently limited on available space, we do have plans to make some improvements in the computer lab. We intend to utilize this area more effectively to support the team moving forward,” said Principal Terry when asked about a dedicated space for the team.

 

“We are extremely proud of Mr. Trujillo, and this entire group! Very obviously, this program, that is only in its second year, is a tremendous success at Floyd Schools, and we intend to do whatever is necessary, to ensure continued success, going forward!” said Superintendent Burleson.

 

“We are proud of the success our team has achieved, and we recognize that much of this is due to Mr. Trujillo’s outstanding guidance and leadership,” said Terry.

Competitions take place in both the fall and spring seasons. The matches can be streamed on the YouTube channel @FloydEsports.