By Saki Kambe
Coed esports team joined the Peninsula College Athletic Programs this fall.
PC is one of more than 300 colleges and university programs nationwide. The college is also the second two-year college in the state to add esports team, but the first to do so as an intercollegiate athletic program. Centralia College has esports under student life.
“I am hoping that this new program will be able to open up all kinds of new opportunities and possibilities which would otherwise normally be affiliated with any campus clubs and activities,” Charlie Morrow, the head coach said.
Fifteen students signed to play; seven Overwatch players, five League of Legends players, and three Rocket League players. Fourteen out of 15 students received a $500 scholarship for the year, and the captain of the Overwatch team, Levi Foy gets $1,000 for the year.
Morrow said that she is still actively recruiting for more players, as the she is hoping to add more games such as Super Smash Bros.
Unlike basketball or soccer, at this point, there is no comprehensible season yet. “I’m telling students that it is a full-year commitment,” Morrow said.
League of Legends team had a season opener on Oct. 19 against University of Fraser Valley, losing, 2-0. They will play in the Collegiate Star League and take on both two- and four-year colleges in weekly tournaments until Feb. 15.
On the other hand, the Overwatch team will compete in CSL’s biweekly tournaments, as well as Tespa’s collegiate preseason. Tespa’s tournaments will be held Sundays from Nov. 3 through Dec. 15, and CLS tournament dates are Nov. 9 and Nov. 30.
In addition, the Pirate Rocket League team will spend fall quarter training in preparation for winter quarter competition.
Peninsula College is also considering joining the National Junior College Athletic Association Esports conference that begins in January and concludes with national championships in April.
Eligiblity to play on the esports team, student athletes must enroll in a minimum of 12 credits, maintain a 2.0 cumulative grade point average during the first quarter of participation and remain in good standing with the team.
According to the current esports rules, Running Starts students are also allowed to take part in esports.
The Athletic Department is still trying to figure out the logistics to include the fan’s experience to this esports journey.
“Our ultimate goal is to really be as much of a presence on the campus community as our soccer and basketball teams,” Morrow said.
