Hoboken High School Esports Team Finishes As Finalists In Super Smash Crews Championship

Press release from Hoboken Public School District:

HOBOKEN, NJ — Hoboken High School is proud to announce that its Esports Super Smash Crews team delivered an outstanding playoff performance, finishing as finalists after an intense championship run. The team composed of Josiah Damkins, Sean Quinn, and Ethan Sikernitsky—competed under the leadership of Head Coach Adam Anderson and Assistant Coach Sam Thomas.

Esports, short for electronic sports, is one of the fastest-growing competitive activities in the nation. More than 5,000 U.S. high schools now participate in organized esports leagues, and over 200 colleges offer varsity programs—with many providing scholarships. As the industry continues to expand, esports has become a powerful pathway for students to develop communication, leadership, critical thinking, and STEM-related skills while opening doors to collegiate and professional opportunities.

The Redwings opened their playoff journey with a dominant victory over Woodbury High School. They then faced the tournament’s top seed, Clayton, battling through a hard-fought match to secure a spot in the finals. The championship round matched them against Hopatcong, a team that had defeated Hoboken earlier in the regular season.

Hoboken entered the finals well-prepared. In Game 1, Sean Quinn secured an early lead, with Josiah Damkins and Ethan Sikernitsky continuing the momentum before Hopatcong rallied for a last-stock win. Game 2 saw an impressive performance from Hopatcong’s Luigi player, who edged out all three Redwings while dropping only one stock.

Despite the close loss, Hoboken’s players displayed tremendous grit, sportsmanship, and strategic growth. Following the match, two team members met with college esports recruiters, opening conversations about competing at the collegiate level—an exciting milestone for the program.

Athletic Director Jack Baker praised the team’s performance, “This team represented Hoboken with passion, composure, and heart. Their run shows just how bright the future of Redwing Esports truly is.”

Principal Robin Piccapietra stated, “I am incredibly proud of how our students performed—not just in competition, but in how they carried themselves. Their teamwork, sportsmanship, and dedication make them true Redwings.”

Hoboken High School congratulates the players and coaching staff for their exceptional season and the growing impact of the Redwing Esports program.

For more information about Hoboken High School Esports, please contact Jack Baker at Jbaker@hoboken.k12.nj.us or 201-356-3738.

This press release was produced by Hoboken Public School District. The views expressed here are the author’s own.