The University of Mary Washington Esports program is ending its Fall 2025 season with a big win with the Valorant team.
On November 19th, the Eagles ended up winning the NACE Grand Finals against Randolph-Macon College, 13-10. The team found its rhythm in the first round but then were presented with a few difficulties in the second. In an effort to maintain synergy and flow of communication, they were able to ultimately redeem themselves in the last round.
The Valorant team is led by two co-captains,
Ethan Bible and Zohran Boston. The pair has been instrumental in leading their team to success with a sole win streak (7 - 0) in their conference record before the Grand Finals.
"Our trust in each other as well as the time and preparation with each other, Bible said. "Coming down to do round winning plays, we always trust another to do their job. That stems from learning about each other outside of playing Valorant."
When asked about dealing with communication deficits or disagreements in the middle of a match, Bible stated, "I think we have a good sense of accountability and we don't dwell on each other... it might get heated in the moment, but that would only last a couple of seconds." This exemplifies that it does take each person to be responsible for their actions but making sure that they are aware they are in a team and work with each other, despite the pressure.
Bible also credits Zohran and
Brandon Howar, an alumnus from last year's Valorant team, with shaping the team's tactical and communication identity. "[Howar] did a good job molding the team's identity and making sure every was capable of doing what was necessary for success."
The Valorant Eagles pushed through to the finals with a perfect 7-0 NACE record and ended with the same way they built it up. Using trust, preparation, and shared commitment to be ready for anything that comes their way. Proving, once again, that the University of Mary Washington Exports program will continue to prosper and exemplify a continuously improving team-based environment.
