The Rocket League esports team fell to Avon Grove, the eventual state champions, in a state semifinal match Saturday, 4-2.

According to Coach Nathan Elias, team members such as senior Christopher Vano stood out despite the loss.

“Chris had a nice double touch off the backboard, which is a nice shot,” Elias said, “But the individual plays were all good.”

Senior Dylan Stone said the Highlanders played strongly.

“We all played pretty good. They just scored on us more,” Stone said.

Elias is pleased with the success of the program’s first season.

“It was tough piloting an esports team for the first time, but I think the team did really well considering it was our first season,” Elias said.

Elias said the team played well together throughout the season.

“Our only two losses were to the team who won last year and Avon Grove,” Elias said. “The kids did great. They’ve all been playing together for a while.”

Next season, Elias said the team plans to work on communication and passing plays, and hopes to be even more successful.