Jones College held its first ever Esports tournament on April 14 in the Student Union. The set up was compact: two tables pushed together with three computers on each and wires for days, but the energy was big. Each player was fully immersed in the game they were playing.
“This event is essentially an interest meeting,” said Chandler Hamilton, director of Grants at Jones College and the coordinator for this event. “I’ve been wanting to start up an Esports team for a while now, and it’s finally in the works. This tournament is simply a test for engagement and to get an idea of games to play.”
Streetfighter, Marvel Rivals, Super Smash Bros and Overwatch were just as few of the games that were played at the tournament, but any online game was on the table as long as players had enough people to build a team.
There were about 20 participants, more than enough to start a team according to Hamilton.
“I think this tournament was a great idea, everyone was in their comfort zone and we were all just having a good time,” said Ethan Noffke, one of the participants and a student at Jones. “I think, not just Jones, but any school can and should have an Esports team. I think it’s a great way to allow people to come out of their shells.”
Along with the efforts of Chris Robinson, athletic director of Jones College, Hamilton is targeting Fall 2025 to legitimize an Esports team that will be open for any student wanting to join.
Each player was responsible for supplying their own console at the event, but Hamilton plans on having dedicated equipment for future Esport team members.
“Esports gets a bad rap sometimes, but I played both regular sports and games in high school,” said Hamilton. “Esports is just as competitive as regular sports. They’re different, but I think they can be just as fulfilling as any other sport.” Whether new to these games or a seasoned player, students should keep their eyes open because Esports at Jones might be in the cards in the upcoming school year.
by Jane Moss
