The Laredo College Call of Duty Esports team brought home the college’s second National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) National Championship this year after an undefeated season during their debut semester. This grand achievement comes at the heels of the talented LC Valorant team’s undefeated national championship in April.
“I am beyond proud of the team and everything they’ve accomplished,” LC Director of Recreation and Esports Ivan Cano said. “This Call of Duty National Title, along with this season’s success, highlights the dedication, talent and resilience of our players. Additionally, the back-to-back titles are proof that LC Esports can compete and succeed at the highest levels, and it’s a moment of immense pride for our college and our community.”
The Call of Duty debut team features Team Captain Emmanuel “Diluvio” Escobedo, Benjamin “Ben” Settle, Kevin “Kev” Rodriguez, Misael “Misa” Ortega and Diego “Death” Rodriguez. Through their vital roles and tenacity to achieve victory, they represented both LC and Laredo admirably in front of the nation.
The scene of the championship win was electric as the team erupted in cheers at the moment of the win. Cano said that those cheers and the title were the perfect culmination of all their hard work throughout the season. For LC esports, this is also an exhilarating way to cap off a successful year and become Palomino legends.
“Winning a national title is an incredibly special achievement, both personally and as a team,” Escobedo said. “Personally, it feels like all the hard work and countless hours of practice have officially paid off and the win is a testament to our unity and determination to win a national title.”
With millions of players worldwide, the adrenaline-pumping competitive pressure embedded in the Call of Duty formula is further elevated at the national stage. However, the LC Palominos did not falter due to the team’s trust, communication and confidence. As with all LC Esports teams, 2025 will have more opportunities to see them in action.
“Our eyes are set on continuing this success,” Cano said about the near future of LC Esports. “We’re building off the momentum from these national titles and our strong finishes across Rainbow Six Siege, Rocket League and Smash Bros.”
He added that with this foundation, LC Esports plans to keep competing for more championships while expanding its program and hosting larger tournaments in order to showcase the incredible talent here at Laredo College and throughout the region.
For those interested in joining, LC Esports revolves around trust, communication and above all else, pushing one another to improve in the game, within their education and personal self. Each season shows the teams’ chemistry during high-pressure moments and how they adapt quickly, support each other and never lose focus. Outside of games, they are just as close; they are friends, share laughs and maintain a positive team culture.
“Always be open to learning, be humble and most importantly, stay confident,” the team captain said. “Competing at this level requires resilience and a positive mentality, especially during those tough times. If you’re ready to commit, LC Esports is ready to provide you with the tools, support and environment you need to be a champion. After all, LC is where champions are made.”
