Downey High Claims Esports Championship in Thrilling Rivalry Matchup
On December 2, the excitement of the long-standing Downey vs. Warren rivalry returned—this time in the dynamic world of competitive esports. Families, students, and staff gathered at the historic Downey Theatre for an unforgettable Esports Championship, where Downey High School earned the title with a 3–1 victory over Warren High School in a best-of-five series featuring the popular game Marvel Rivals.
More than just a championship match, the evening celebrated student passion, teamwork, and the growing role esports plays in preparing students for future careers.
Congratulations to Our Student Champions
Downey High’s championship team – Isaiah Gonzalez, Jose Cardenas, Matthew Romo-Reveles, Benjamin Wallace, Nova Romo, Javen Esparza, and Fernando Hernandez – delivered an impressive performance marked by communication, strategy, and composure. Their teamwork and preparation were on full display as they claimed the newest chapter in this storied rivalry.
Warren High School brought equally strong competition to the stage, led by Diego Herrera-Rodriguez, one of the top-ranked Marvel Rivals players in the world. Supported by teammates Jared Valdivieso, Fernando Gonzalez, Brian Gonzalez, Ethan Caballero, Angel Nunez, and Gael Jonasson, the Bears demonstrated outstanding skill and sportsmanship throughout the season.
Esports for Everyone: Building Community and Belonging
The championship night was a true celebration of community. The Downey Theatre was filled with energy as students from all three high schools, along with middle and elementary school students from across the district, came together to cheer on their teams.
Younger students were invited to experience esports up close, touring behind the scenes, receiving Marvel Rivals shirts, and enjoying VIP seating for the match. For many, it was their first glimpse into what esports looks like at the high school level, sparking excitement about what could be possible in their own futures.
More Than a Game: Learning Through Esports
Downey Unified’s Esports League (DUEL) was launched eight years ago to connect student interest in gaming with meaningful learning opportunities. Through DUEL, students develop essential skills such as leadership, collaboration, critical thinking, and strategic decision-making – skills that serve them well in the classroom, college, and beyond.
Esports in Downey Unified is closely aligned with Career Technical Education (CTE) pathways, including game design, programming, technology, and digital media. With structured coaching and team-based play, students grow academically and socially in ways that go far beyond independent gaming at home.
Preparing Students for a Future-Forward World
The global gaming industry continues to grow, now valued at hundreds of billions of dollars worldwide, opening doors to college scholarships and careers in esports, technology, media, and design. Events like the Esports Championship highlight how Downey Unified is intentionally preparing students to thrive in emerging industries, while also fostering connection, confidence, and school pride.
Whether students dream of competing, designing games, managing teams, or exploring careers in technology, esports in Downey Unified offers a welcoming and exciting pathway to get started.