LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) — Spalding University is introducing a fresh addition to its athletic program. Esports, which stands for electronic sports, involves competition through video games. It has evolved into a multi-billion dollar sector and local interest has increased over the years. Last month, Trevor Johnson was appointed as Spalding’s inaugural head coach for the […]
LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) — Spalding University is introducing a fresh addition to its athletic program.
Esports, which stands for electronic sports, involves competition through video games. It has evolved into a multi-billion dollar sector and local interest has increased over the years.
Last month, Trevor Johnson was appointed as Spalding’s inaugural head coach for the university’s esports team. Johnson’s journey in esports began as a commentator for Call of Duty and he later contributed to the establishment of Manchester University’s esports program.
Trevor Johnson coaching at Spalding University’s GameZone in Louisville, Ky. on Dec. 3, 2024.
“Esports has always been a significant aspect of my life. I began playing Call of Duty with friends in ranked matches, which transitioned into commentary for Call of Duty, participating in some amateur leagues, and after a few years, I started working with Esports at my undergraduate school.”
Johnson subsequently obtained his Master of Science in esports business from the University of New Haven. Originally hailing from southern Indiana, he chose to relocate closer to home to take charge of the new team.
“The timing was perfect,” Johnson stated. “I recognized it was a great institution and it felt like an ideal chance.”
Currently, Johnson is focused on assembling a team.
“When it comes to recruiting players, it’s about identifying who is on campus and who has an interest in esports,” Johnson explained. “Determining which games we will participate in has been crucial; I want to engage the widest audience possible for competition. In cultivating the esports community here, we can enhance awareness about what it is and how to get involved.”
The team intends to compete in Super Smash Brothers, Overwatch, Rocket League, Call of Duty, Valor, and Fortnite.
Alyssa Smallwood, a freshman active in campus activities, is part of the softball team and also has a passion for gaming.
“I’ve always been fond of video games, and it’s thrilling to know I can play them competitively,” Smallwood remarked.
After spending her childhood gaming, Smallwood feels more assured in her gaming skills.
“I’ve observed my improvement. When I was younger, I struggled to understand games as much as I do now,” Smallwood shared. “I grasp how to engage with games significantly better today.”
Alyssa Smallwood practices at Spalding University in Louisville, Ky. on Dec. 3, 2024.
A couple of years back, Spalding University established a gaming lounge that includes eight computer stations for student use. This area will be utilized by the team for practices.
Johnson aspires for esports participants at Spalding to grow both in their gaming skills and as individuals.
“These video games that have been a lifelong passion can now lead to educational opportunities,” Johnson stated. “Competing at an advanced level is a significant aspect.”
Smallwood conveyed that the new team also provides students with a chance to engage more with their campus community.
“This is crucial for us being a smaller school, as it creates more chances for students to participate on campus and interact with one another; it truly represents Spalding,” Smallwood noted. “Spalding embodies a community feel, we’re small, we engage together, and everyone is familiar with each other.”
Johnson indicated that the team is gearing up to commence competitions next fall. The esports team is integrated within Spalding’s athletic department, although collegiate esports are not governed by the NCAA.
To find out more about Spalding esports, click here.
Spalding University boasts an enrollment of over 1,700 students. To discover more about Spalding University, click here.
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