NXL Lone Star Open 2025 - My first Division 2 event
I landed back home from the Dominican Republic on September 1st, barely had time to unpack, wash gear, and reset before I was on a plane again. On September 4th, I was heading back to North Carolina, this time to train with Jenn and Underground. Same routine, different mission.
Jenn picked me up from the airport, and even though we got to her house pretty late, some things never change, Oreos were waiting for me. After playing with Blue for a bit, I knocked out. The next morning, I tried what might be the best cereal I’ve ever had for the first time… and just like that, it became my go-to snack for the entire weekend.
We got to the field around 11 a.m., walked the layout, spent time finding bounce shots, and really breaking things down. We also picked up a Lomax cap, which was a nice bonus to the day, and then headed out.
Practice Weekend in North Carolina
Saturday was the first real day of playing the layout. It had rained the night before, and again in the afternoon, so the field was muddy and heavy. I played Dorito side that day, and honestly, the guys from Underground made everything easier. Their communication was solid, and having Jenn as my 2 was huge. If you’ve ever played with her behind you, you already know, having a back player like that changes everything.
On Sunday, I switched to the snake and played there all day. At the time, I didn’t know it, but that position would end up becoming my home for the tournament. Overall, it was an amazing layout weekend. We dialed in our plays, tightened communication, and felt ready.
On September 11th, we flew into Dallas, Texas for the NXL Lone Star Open.
At this point, you might be wondering why I was playing with Underground. One of their players, Tall T, was injured, and Jenn and Chaz gave me the opportunity to step in. That made this my first tournament ever playing Division 2, and I couldn’t be more grateful for the chance.
Just like when I played with Aboveground, I went into this weekend with zero expectations for play time. I was simply thankful to be there, learning a full layout with one of the best D2 teams out there, absorbing everything I could.
Friday Matches: Houston Zone and Seattle Cartel
Our first day of the event, we faced Houston Zone and Seattle Cartel. Both matches were close, hard-fought battles, but Underground came out on top in both, winning 2–1.
I got to play one point that day, which felt great. Unfortunately, I was pulled on a minor penalty, but stepping onto the field at this level still meant a lot to me.
That night, we went back home and Tall T and Eddie cooked for us, a full meal, including the best pasta I’ve ever had, completely made from scratch. We ate, watched robot fights, and talked through game plans for Saturday. The next day we would face Rejects, my teammate Nana’s team, and TAKEOVER, another strong Florida squad.
Saturday Battles Against Rejects and TAKEOVER
First match was against Rejects. I played my second point of the event, but somehow got pulled before even making it to my spot, still not sure why. Underground pulled off the win 3–2, which locked us into Sunday no matter what.
But the job wasn’t finished.
Our final match of the day was against TAKEOVER. Underground jumped out to a strong 4–0 lead, and Eddie gave me another opportunity to step in. I went straight to the snake, and with Owen behind me, we closed out the point clean. That sealed a 5–0 mercy rule.
That win earned us first seed, sending us straight to quarterfinals on Sunday.
Sunday Quarterfinals and Overtime Loss
Sunday morning, we watched the match between the potential teams we might face. Beefy Boys ended up winning, which set them as our opponent.
It was a tough match. The guys battled back hard and tied it 2–2. I was sent in to help burn the remaining seconds and push us into overtime. Unfortunately, on the OT point, we lost Owen off the break, putting us in a really difficult position. Despite everyone’s effort, we couldn’t pull it off.
Underground finished 6th place at the NXL Lone Star Open 2025.
Grateful for the Opportunity with Underground
I know how hard these guys work, and they truly deserve more. I’m beyond thankful for the opportunity to play with Underground, for the trust they showed me, and for everything they taught me throughout this experience. Competing in Division 2, learning a new role, and being part of this run was something I’ll always appreciate.
This weekend wasn’t just about results, it was about growth, learning, and becoming better for what’s next.
You can watch the full weekend recap next on Matt The Gym Rats’ YouTube video.
