Franklin County Wildcats claim second place at Indiana Esports Fortnite State Finals

The Franklin County Community School Corporation held a celebratory meeting on May 12, 2025, to recognize the achievements of its students in both esports and the Jobs for America’s Graduates (JAG) program. The meeting highlighted the growing prominence of esports in the educational landscape and the success of students in competitive environments.

The highlight of the meeting was the recognition of the Wildcat Esports Fortnite team, which recently competed in the Indiana Esports Network state finals at Ball State University. The team, consisting of Kobe Doherty, Riot Lewis, Riley Moran, and Carson Wilhelm, secured a commendable second place, marking a significant achievement for the school. Over 850 players participated in the event, showcasing the increasing popularity of esports in Indiana. The competition was filled with excitement, including a premature match start that required a reset, and a dance-off during technical delays, which engaged the audience and added to the event's atmosphere.

Despite facing tough competition, the Wildcats demonstrated resilience, winning several rounds and finishing as runners-up. This achievement is particularly noteworthy as it represents the first time the school has reached the state finals in esports, bringing home a trophy and valuable experiences for the players.

In addition to esports, the meeting also celebrated the accomplishments of students in the JAG program. Tanya Wirtz, a program leader, shared that her students excelled at the state level, winning scholarships and the opportunity to compete at nationals. The JAG students participated in various competitions, including Project-Based Learning (PBL) and creative decision-making, where they developed business plans and solutions to community issues. Their participation not only fostered professional skills but also provided networking opportunities with peers from across the country.

The meeting underscored the importance of extracurricular programs in fostering student engagement and achievement. Both the esports team and JAG participants exemplified the school’s commitment to providing diverse opportunities for students to excel and grow. As the school looks ahead, the success of these programs may inspire further investment and support for similar initiatives, enhancing the educational experience for all students in the Franklin County Community School Corporation.