Esports: NEC Grims Capture NECC Valorant National Championship with Undefeated Run

The New England College Valorant team capped off a dominant 2025–2026 year with a national championship victory in the NECC Division VII Nationals, completing a perfect, undefeated postseason run against some of the nation’s top collegiate programs.

Following highly successful fall and spring seasons, the #3-seeded Grims earned a bid to the national single-elimination tournament and never looked back. NEC swept their way through the bracket with authority, defeating #14 Buena Vista University (2-0) in the Round of 16, #11 Illinois College (2-0) in the quarterfinals, and #10 Coe College (2-0) in the semifinals to secure a spot in the Grand Finals.

In the championship match, NEC faced #8 Lakeland University in a best-of-five series. The Grims showcased resilience, clutch plays, and composure under pressure, securing a 3-0 sweep to claim the NECC Division VII national title.

From left: Anthony Aguiar; Sydney Bucci; Josh Staley, Director of Esports; Noel Huliselan; and Patrick Tewksbury

“This result is a direct reflection of the work this team has put in all year,” said NEC Director of Esports, Josh Staley. “Their preparation, discipline in practice, and commitment to constant improvement set the standard for what a championship program looks like. What really gave us an edge in this series was our captain’s ability to break down opponent’s tendencies. Sydney’s analysis of Lakeland’s previous matches allowed us to come in with a clear, confident game plan. At this level, everyone has talent. What separates teams is preparation, and this squad embraced that fully.”

Grand Finals Recap vs. Lakeland University

Game 1 – Lotus (13-9)
NEC set the tone early with a controlled victory on Lotus. Senior Anthony Aguiar (Gilford, N.H.) led the way with a standout 24/12/7 performance, earning MVP honors. Junior Eris Liebster (Austin, Tex.) added a crucial 1v1 clutch and multiple multi-kill rounds, while senior Patrick Tewksbury (Londonderry, N.H.) contributed consistent fragging with 21 kills.

Game 2 – Bind (16-14, Triple Overtime)
In one of the most intense maps of the season, NEC outlasted Lakeland in triple overtime. Aguiar once again dominated with 30 kills, while senior Noel Huliselan (Jakarta, Indonesia) matched him with 30 of his own, including a pivotal 1v3 clutch. Captain Sydney Bucci (Bermuda) delivered key impact plays, including a 1v2 clutch and a 4K round, while Tewksbury added a critical 1v2 clutch to keep NEC alive.

Game 3 – Fracture (14-12, Overtime)
Closing out the series, NEC held their nerves in another overtime battle. Huliselan earned MVP honors with a commanding 28/15/5 performance, while Liebster electrified the match with an ace. The team’s coordinated play and composure secured the 3-0 series sweep and the national championship.

With this victory, the NEC Grims solidify themselves as one of the premier programs in collegiate esports. Their undefeated national championship run reflects not only elite mechanical skills, but also teamwork, preparation, and a championship mindset.

For continuing coverage of New England College Athletics, visit athletics.nec.edu and follow the Pilgrims on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.