Photo By Sgt. Lauren Gajeton | Twelve teams in the Department of War Education Activity Pacific Region flew to Okinawa, Japan to compete in the Far East Esports Championship powered by the USO. Soldiers and athletes from the U.S. Army Esports team supported the event from January 30th-31st, 2026 as keynote speakers, sharing their experiences and passions about the Army and Esports. (U.S. Army Photo by Sgt. Gajeton) see less
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U.S. Army Esports Engages Pacific Student-Athletes at Far East Championship
The United States Army Esports team attended the Department of War Education Activity Far East Esports Championship on January 30th and 31st, 2026, alongside Soldiers from the Mission Support Battalion and 25th Division Sustainment Troops Battalion. The Soldiers from Fort Knox, KY and Schofield Barracks, HI, participated as keynote speakers sharing their experiences as Active Duty Soldiers and competitive esports athletes.
The event hosted twelve teams across the Pacific Region featuring two titles: Rocket League and Valorant. Both titles emphasize teamwork, strategy, and execution—skills that foster competitiveness and boost morale to perform at the highest level. Currently, the students participate in their respective programs as part of their varsity athletics during the winter season.
Edgren Middle High School and Guam High School captured first place, dominating the tournament. Student athletes across the Pacific region were also introduced to future opportunities in collegiate esports, including the “Pathway to Pro” with the United States Military Academy at West Point or within the United States Army.
Sgt. Nnoli, a Soldier with the 25th Division Sustainment Troops Battalion and the highest-ranked Rocket League player in the Army, inspired students and spectators by sharing his journey through collegiate and Army Esports. Staff Sgt. Edwards and Sgt. Gajeton, the Program Director and Marketing Lead for U.S. Army Esports, are both Soldiers in the Mission Support Battalion. Together, they spearhead initiatives that present the Army from a new perspective, engaging an underrepresented demographic through esports.
