On Tuesday, Laredo College’s Francisco “iFox” Pacheco showed his mettle during the National Junior College Athletic Association Esports (NJCAAE) Tier 1 Super Smash Bros. Ultimate (SSBU) Championship Finals in a harrowing final match-up that would determine the grand champion of the Fall 2023 season.
After claiming the top spot in Tier 2 in Spring 2023, and once again reaching the finals, Pacheco’s hard-fought efforts resulted in being placed second in the nation. Surrounded by loved ones, friends and team members, the outpouring of support, encouragement and appreciation is a staple in what it means to be a player for LC Esports.
“I still think of everybody supporting me while I still root for myself and my competitive side,” Pacheco said. “My parents and friends are completely supportive and really proud, they tell me all the time. I appreciate everyone who has been with me every step of the way.”
Within the NJCAAE, Tier 1 is the highest form of competition, in which Pacheco showcased his SSBU skills with the determination to win. The match was a culmination of the best two players in the league and was livestreamed on the NJCAAE YouTube channel with friends and family tuning in from home.
“The tournament spanned for about three or four months, weekly competitions where I had to focus on a lot of tough schools and tough players,” Pacheco said. “Solid Snake is my overall main, but Banjo-Kazooie is more of a counter-pick for the opponent’s Ness.”
Laredo College Director of Recreation and Esports Ivan Cano said that Pacheco left a legacy that will inspire future and current Esports players. His championship win in Tier 2 and his impressive performance throughout Tier 1 were not just a cause for celebration but a strong message sent before his graduation this December.
Ultimately, iFox made a name for himself within the NJCAAE and the SSBU community. At LC, Pacheco has cemented his status as a Palomino legend who will inspire future Esports members to always strive to be the best.