JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — A new kind of competition is coming to Florida State College at Jacksonville; esports, or competitive gaming, will be introduced to the college's athletic program.
First Coast News caught up with FSCJ's athletic director, Jerry Thor about esports' significance. Thor said when parents learn about competitive gaming there are two types of reactions: the first is disbelief and the other includes parents who are excited for their student.
FSCJ showcased to First Coast News its new gaming arena. It is a room equipped with computers, PlayStations and monitors. Competitions will be streamed online via Twitch.
Thor, who is overseeing the program, said players will compete in the National Junior College Athletic Association Esports. Players will have the opportunity to compete against other junior colleges and four-year universities. Thor said eSports became a global phenomenon in the last five years.
The program's purpose, Thor said, is to increase student engagement in extracurricular activities.
"The potential here is limitless," Thor said. "What I appreciate about esports is we can support many more students than traditional sports. They're [student e-athletes] gonna have a jersey with their gamertag on the back. They're going to be registered and competing in their favorite titles. I'm excited to see all that coming together."
Students e-athletes will not participate in gaming all day, as FSCJ says they will be required to meet specific GPA guidelines. The college is currently recruiting players for the upcoming fall semester.
Here are the video games esports teams would compete in:
- Call of Duty
- League of Legends
- Overwatch
- Rocket League
- Rainbow Six Siege
- Valorant
- Fortnite
- NBA2K, FIFA & Madden 24
- Super Smash Bros Ultimate
- Mario Kart