The Mountain West announced recently its 2024 Fall Esports Players of the Year for their outstanding efforts during the gaming season, with a Lobo racing his way to take first place in Rocket League.
UNM senior Tyler “Fossil” Luis was selected recently as the Player of the Year in the fast-paced vehicular soccer game Rocket League, a game he has perfected since his tenure at UNM as the game’s coordinator for the past four years.
Luis, who is pursuing a degree in geology, pivoted to gaming in high school, where he was shout casted for the New Mexico Activities Association High School State Esports Finals for Rocket League. He brought his passion to UNM, leading the Lobo Rocket League team to an undefeated regular season, which ultimately earned him the Player of the Year award.
But his impact stretches beyond the game. Luis played a key role in growing New Mexico’s esports scene, helping establish the New Mexico Esports Championship Series (NMECS), which has expanded Rocket League competition across the state.
“When I got to UNM, the esports club was barely getting off the ground, and I was invested in seeing it grow,” Luis said. “From then to now, it has grown to over a thousand members, and I couldn’t be more proud of the people who made it happen.”
After his award, several UNM faculty were quick to congratulate Luis on his achievements, including UNM Chief Information Officer Duane Arruti, who commended his dedication to UNM Esports.
“Congratulations, Tyler, on this incredible recognition for both yourself and UNM Esports. You are a fantastic representative of UNM Esports and UNM,” Arruti said. “Your multi-year work as Rocket League Coordinator, your efforts in helping establish NMECS, and your dedication to supporting and encouraging high school Esports are truly commendable.”
Luis and the UNM Rocket League team fought through a challenging season, ultimately placing third in the Mountain West Conference, just missing out on a Grand Finals appearance.
Even with limited resources, Luis helped build a competitive team, bringing together top players with minimal recruitment.
As for the future of UNM Esports, Luis is optimistic, with new leadership stepping in and the Rocket League team continuing to grow.
“To be honest, this award was totally unexpected, and I’m still a bit shocked that I was even on the docket in the first place,” Luis said. “To win the award with the UNM Esports badge on my chest really brings my career here full circle.”
Now, UNM Esports celebrates Luis’ recognition as the Rocket League Player of the Year, a title that marks another milestone for Lobo esports and the growing gaming scene in New Mexico.
