Newton High School’s Rocket League Esports team finished fourth at the Iowa High School Esports Association’s Class 2A State Competition at the Orpheum Theater in Marshalltown on Friday. The team of Brandon Holmes, Jeremiah Killmer, Isaiah Slaughter, David Wickett, and Levi Zaabel were one of eight Rocket League teams to qualify for state.

The Cardinals lost their opening best of seven match to Waterloo East 4-0, and then defeated both Benton Community and Glenwood Community 4-1. In the third place match, Newton lost to Waukee 4-2. Coach Kyle Lovan, who’s also Newton High School’s School Resource officer and the person who raised funds to start Esports at Newton High School this school year, said the boys played well and made him proud.

Both the Rocket League and Overwatch Esports State Championships were held Friday at the Orpheum Theater.