The esports program at Northwestern State University continues to grow after recently relocating its lounge from the Friedman Student Union to the Wellness, Recreation and Activities Center. The relocation situates the esports room with the other competitive and intramural sports rooms, creating a more centralized space for students.
Courtney Chancellor, coordinator of competitive sports, has overseen the esports program for three years and discussed the reasoning behind the move. “We really just wanted to downsize and move the esports room to the WRAC so that all of the intramurals could be in one place,” Chancellor said.
“The goal is for people to see the esports room here and want to join, since more students come to the WRAC than to the Student Union. As we are rebuilding, the main goal is to get more students involved and to have events to get students into the lounge,” Chancellor said.
For students, the lounge provides access and community. Alex Dollar, a senior general studies major, shared how the space benefits students. “I think the lounge itself offers opportunities to people who don’t have a system or way to play games in their dorms or houses. Also, it creates a place where people can go to get out of the house and hang out with friends,” Dollar said.
Esports, while providing community, also gives students leadership opportunities. Chloe Rachal is a junior health and exercise science major and coach for the Overwatch team. “The things I have gained from being a coach for the Overwatch team are priceless. Not only have I made lifelong friends that I can rely on, but I’ve also gained confidence in organization and planning,” Rachal said.
“I’ve had to step up and do research on current tournaments that cater to my team, as well as coach my team members to be the best they can be. It’s hard, but having the great group of players that I do makes it all worth it,” Rachal said.
As the esports lounge continues to take shape in its new location, the move to the WRAC is expected to help attract more students and strengthen the esports community on campus.
