A new Esports program at Emporia State University gives students vital skills they can use during their college career and after graduation.
“Esports, short for electronic sports, is a form of competitive video gaming where players and teams compete against each other in online tournaments or leagues,” explained Nathan Goodwin, ESU coordinator for esports and e-ventures. He cited these statistics of the industry:
- Professional esports is a billion-dollar industry through advertising and sponsorships.
- Professional teams draw tens of thousands of viewers per game.
- At the collegiate level, the National Association of Collegiate Esports has 255 member schools with over 5,000 student-athletes competing in varsity esports programs.
Emporia State’s new competitive varsity teams are already competing in the games Overwatch and Valorant against other collegiate teams.
“These competitions put ESU in the spotlight on a national stage, which showcases the innovations and forward-thinking ideals of the university to a wider audience,” Goodwin said.
Working with the teams involves more than playing the games.
“Students not only have the chance to play for the teams as student-athletes, but also coach, manage and promote the team on social media,” he said. “Each of our teams are completely student-led, allowing participants to gain skills in teamwork, communication, management and more. Students can also earn scholarships toward their education.”
Both the City of Emporia and the ESU Foundation have had a part in getting the new program off the ground. Through their investments, ESU is creating a state-of-the art gaming arena. It is used for team practice with high-grade computers and peripherals and can also be available for students who want casual play.
Goodwin added another benefit of the space for others on campus: “The space is also useful as a high-tech computer lab for student projects that demand a lot of computer power. Students will be able to tackle a larger scope of projects than they were ever able to before.”
This includes projects that are part of the E-Ventures academic component. Through ESU E-Ventures, students will be able to take on projects and engage in curriculum that builds skill in technology, illustration, design and coding to prepare them for career options in the gaming industry.To learn more about the new esports program, go online to emporia.edu/esports. Reach out via email to esports@emporia.edu.
For more information about Emporia State’s investments in education programs, see emporia.edu/future, which includes a video from Nathan Goodwin, ESU coordinator for esports and e-ventures.