GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (GRPS) -- Two Grand Rapids University Preparatory Academy (UPREP) scholars were crowned state champions at the 2025 Michigan High School Esports Federation state competition.
Jackson Rucker and Floyd Thompson, both sixth graders at UPREP, took home first place in the Middle School 2v2 Fortnite competition on Saturday, April 26, 2025, held at the University of Michigan–Flint campus. The duo remained undefeated, winning eight consecutive matchups to claim the state title.
This is the first year of the UPREP esports program. Coaches Lindsay McInerney and Arturo Infante have worked closely with all team members, including Rucker and Thompson, to ensure a strong first season.
Jessalynn Johnson, UPREP Assistant Principal, praised the team’s success. “It has been such a joy seeing scholars excited about esports this year,” she said. “It has been amazing watching them do something they are passionate about and seeing all their hard work pay off. We are so proud of our team and our coaches, and we look forward to growing the program next year.”
