Tristan Erich, a senior at Columbia High School, is a shining example of excellence in both academics and competitive gaming. As a founding member of Columbia’s eSports program and a standout student leader, Tristan has made an indelible mark on his school and the broader eSports community in Alabama.
Academic and Leadership Excellence
Immediately after arriving at Columbia High School, Tristan rose to serve as Class President and continued to do so until his senior year, deciding instead to focus on his studies and improving his skills in within competitive gaming. Despite this, he continued to showcase his dedication to leadership to Columbia by helping his peers in any way he could. Alongside his leadership roles, he has maintained an impeccable 4.0 GPA throughout high school, balancing rigorous academic demands with his many extracurricular commitments.
eSsports Achievements and National Ambitions
Tristan’s passion for eSports led him to help establish Columbia’s eSports team, where he serves as the captain of the Super Smash Bros. Ultimate (SSBU) squad. Under his guidance, the team has reached the PlayVs state playoffs every season since its creation, achieving a rank within the top-10 each time.
Individually, Tristan is ranked among the top five high school SSBU players in Alabama, earning recognition as one of the state’s most skilled competitors. His commitment to improvement drives him to travel the country to participate in high stakes tournaments, where he faces elite players to sharpen his skills and gain invaluable experience. These efforts have not only elevated his gameplay but have also established him as a well-respected figure in the competitive SSBU scene.
A Scholarship to Start the Game of Life
Tristan’s dedication to both academics and eSports has earned him a prestigious $40,000 scholarship from Loyola University in New Orleans, Louisiana. This scholarship reflects his remarkable achievements and positions him to continue excelling at the collegiate level—both in the classroom and in competitive gaming.
Leaving A Legacy
As Tristan prepares for graduation, he leaves behind a legacy of leadership, academic success, and competitive excellence. With Loyola University on the horizon, Tristan is poised to make an even greater impact in eSports while pursuing his academic goals. His journey is one of passion, perseverance, and boundless potential—a story that is sure to inspire other students for years to come.