Dozens of student gamers from across New York City came together on June 6th for the 2026 CONDUIT Esports Tournament, an annual competition powered by HITN that combines competitive gaming with opportunities for learning, teamwork and community building.
Approximately 80 students, coaches and supporters representing seven public schools from all five boroughs participated in the daylong event at HITN’s studios in the Brooklyn Navy Yard. From morning through the afternoon, students competed in individual and team-based matches while taking part in raffles and activities designed to celebrate their achievements both inside and outside the game.
The event was hosted by esports personalities Narz and Jetset, who provided live commentary throughout the competition. Between matches, the pair shared personal stories and insights from their careers in gaming and broadcasting, offering students a behind-the-scenes look at the industry.
In addition to competitive matches, the tournament featured raffles and prizes throughout the day. Organizers said every student participant received a prize, reflecting the event’s emphasis on inclusion and student achievement.
Students from I.S. 230 in Queens emerged as the standout performers of the day, earning multiple top finishes and being recognized by organizers as the tournament’s “Ganadores del Día,” or winners of the day.
CONDUIT is an HITN initiative that continues to expand opportunities for students to explore esports while developing skills in teamwork, communication and digital literacy. Beyond the competition itself, the program aims to introduce young people to technology-focused learning experiences and potential career pathways in the rapidly growing esports and digital media industries.
Participating Schools and Coaches
Brooklyn
I.S. 171 Abraham Lincoln / Coach: Earl Lafond
Queens
I.S. 230 / Coach: Katherine Otlowski
Principal Ajith Satya also attended the event.
I.S. 429 / Coach: Daniel Green
Bronx
TAPCo / Coach: Jonathan Lijoi
JHS 118 The William Niles School / Coach: Jason Serrano
Manhattan
Mirabal Sisters Campus / Coaches: Christian Sanchez and Jeremy Velazquez
Staten Island
I.S. 49 / Coach: Kim Lindgren
Tournament Results
1v1 Competition
🥇 Gold: Rayan Douah (I.S. 230, Queens)
🥈 Silver: Rafael Pitre
🥉 Bronze: Enzo Tummino Hamilton
2v2 Competition
🥇 Gold: Owura Gyamfi & Adrian Reyes
🥈 Silver: Erick Perez & Alan Mendez
🥉 Bronze: Athena Jacobs & Koharu Ono
