Boise State University Transforms Classroom Vision into National Esports Powerhouse

What started in a classroom eight years ago has become one of college esports’ greatest success stories. Boise State University just made history by moving its nationally dominant esports program from the College of Innovation and Design into the athletic department—a milestone that marks the program’s evolution from experimental startup to championship dynasty.

The transition, which became official in July 2025, represents more than just an organizational shift. It’s a validation of what Chris “Doc” Haskell—nicknamed the “Grandfather of Esports”—envisioned back in 2017 when collegiate gaming was still finding its footing.

From Humble Beginnings to National Dominance

The Boise State University esports story began in the most unlikely of places: a shared computer lab in the Education Building. Haskell partnered with Brett Shelton, a professor of educational technology, to pitch the idea to Gordon Jones, then-dean of the College of Innovation and Design. Jones saw the potential immediately and invested in what many considered an unproven concept.

The program’s physical evolution mirrors its competitive rise. After launching in 2017 with a League of Legends match in the Student Union Building, the team moved to a temporary space on the second floor of Albertsons Library before landing in its permanent home—a 7,000-square-foot arena at 301 W. Capitol Boulevard in downtown Boise. When the COVID-19 pandemic hit and the Venture College shifted to virtual operations, the esports program expanded to take over the entire facility, adding a state-of-the-art broadcast studio in fall 2023.

Building a Championship Legacy

The numbers tell a remarkable story. Under Haskell’s leadership, Boise State University has compiled a record of 1,514 wins and 676 losses—more than any of the 800-plus universities with official esports programs. That success translates to hardware: 13 Mountain West Championships and six national titles since the conference sanctioned esports in 2018.

The Broncos claimed their first Madden national championship in 2021 during what became their best season to date. They evolved into a national powerhouse in 2022, dominating especially in Overwatch. By 2024, multiple teams reached May Madness finals, bringing home four Mountain West Championships and securing national recognition across Rocket League, Overwatch, Valorant, and CFB25.

The program produces over 30 hours of live content weekly, positioning Boise State University as a national leader in collegiate esports media and operations. Director of Athletics Jeramiah Dickey recognizes what the program brings to the table: the potential to showcase student-athletes to new audiences, advance the university’s brand, and generate revenue opportunities.

An Innovation Incubator Proves Its Model

The College of Innovation and Design served as more than just a host—it provided the flexibility and support needed to thrive in uncharted territory. In 2017, collegiate esports was experimental. Boise State University was among the first to take the leap, and the college backed that vision with early investment.

Critical support came from Idaho Central Credit Union, which provided funding that allowed the program to offer scholarships and expand access. Today, universities across the country are attempting to replicate the Boise State model, but the College of Innovation and Design got there first.

The college has a track record of incubating successful programs including Games, Interactive Media, and Mobile Technology; Human-Environment Systems; and Leadership Certificates. Esports represents the first non-credit-bearing program to successfully “graduate” from the college—a major milestone that demonstrates the college’s ability to nurture innovation until it’s ready to stand on its own.

What’s Next for the Broncos

As Boise State University esports formally integrates with athletics operations, the program continues competing in the Power Esports Conference while maintaining its downtown arena for competitions, public events, training, and broadcasts. Key players including Emiliano Flores in Rocket League, Jonathan Foraker in Overwatch 2, Griffin Applegate in Valorant, and Eric Labastida in Super Smash Bros Ultimate are positioned to lead the Broncos into another competitive season.

The move to athletics brings expanded resources and institutional support from the president’s office, along with an expanded professional staff. For a program that started with broadcasts running out of Doc Haskell’s office, the transformation is complete.

What began as one man’s vision in a classroom has become a blueprint for collegiate esports nationwide. And for Boise State University, it’s just another example of what happens when bold ideas meet institutional commitment.