(L to R) Brenden Nunez, Jeudy Fernandez, Cristopher Ramos Fajardo, Tiarra Thompson (coach), Luis Lopez, Henry Ventura (counselor)
In an electrifying journey that began back in January, the Harry S. Truman High School Deaf and Hard of Hearing Educational Services (DHHES) Esports team has made their mark on the national stage—competing among the best and earning top honors.
The team entered a national tournament hosted by the Rochester Institute of Technology’s National Technical Institute for the Deaf (RIT/NTID), going head-to-head virtually with over 50 other DHH teams from across the country. After months of intense matches and strategy, Truman’s squad powered their way into the top 8, earning an exclusive, all-expenses-paid trip to compete at nationals in person at RIT from May 1st to May 4th.
Facing fierce competition in Rochester, our players held their own and finished strong with a 6th place national ranking—an incredible achievement for a first-time showing on such a major stage.
The team included:
-
Cristopher Ramos Fajardo (12th grade)
-
Brenden Nunez (10th grade)
-
Jeudy Fernandez (10th grade)
-
Luis Lopez (10th grade)
But the biggest win of the weekend wasn’t just in gameplay—it was in character. Senior Cristopher Ramos Fajardo earned the prestigious Sportsmanship Award, voted on by all the coaches in attendance. He was recognized for his respect, gratitude, encouragement, and support—not only for his teammates but for every player at the tournament. His positive spirit left a lasting impression far beyond the final scoreboards.
“This award means a lot,” one of the coaches shared. “Cristopher showed us what true leadership and heart look like.”
Congratulations to the entire Truman DHHES Esports team for representing our school with skill, class, and pride. We’re already looking forward to next season—game on!