As esports continues to grow in Oklahoma high schools, Woodward senior Izaak Estes is embracing the challenge of competing while helping a young program establish its place.
Estes competes for Woodward in Marvel Rivals and Super Smash Bros. Ultimate. With the school’s esports program still developing, he sees each tournament as an opportunity to improve individually while also contributing to the team’s long-term growth.
“Our team is fairly new, so we’ve been pushing through a lot of struggles trying to set up and make it in our competitions,” Estes said.
That process has required patience, persistence, and a willingness to learn. Estes said his competitive nature is a major reason he continues to work toward better results.
“My competitiveness has driven me to want to win these tournaments,” Estes said.
He experienced one of his favorite competitive moments last season, when he advanced through a tournament and saw what was possible with continued preparation.
“My highlight was making it decently far through a tournament last year,” Estes said.
In esports, success can depend on more than talent with a controller. Players must study opponents, improve decision-making, and stay composed against a wide range of skilled competition. Estes understands that development requires consistent effort.
“It takes a lot of motivation and skill to win. There are a lot of good players in these tournaments, so you definitely need to practice and learn from other players,” Estes said.
Estes follows Poppt1, a Super Smash Bros. content creator and player, for both entertainment and insight into the game. He appreciates the creator’s ability to combine high-level skill with an engaging online presence.
“Poppt1 because he is a very talented super smash bros. YouTube creator who is a skilled and entertaining player,” Estes said.
Away from competition, Estes is involved in several Woodward activities. In addition to esports, he participates in BPA, DECA, and SkillsUSA. He also had an art piece entered for state in 2025 during his sophomore year, demonstrating interests that extend beyond the esports arena.
His strongest influences, however, come from home.
“My role models are my parents because my mom has taught me how to be a good person, and my dad has taught me how to make it through life,” Estes said.
For Estes, wearing Woodward colors carries extra meaning because he is part of a smaller, newer team trying to create momentum for future competitors.
“It’s cool representing our school because our team is fairly small and is newer for Woodward to have an esports team, so I want to push our team higher in Oklahoma and make our school known,” Estes said.
As his senior season continues, Estes hopes his competitive drive and commitment to improvement can help Woodward’s esports program take another step forward.
