Are you feeling the need to be adventurous, playful and even a little competitive? In that case, have you taken advantage of the University of Oregon’s Esports? The Esports program is the perfect opportunity for you to embrace your inner athlete and team up with fellow Ducks for online activities.
So what exactly is Esports? Esports is far more competitive than normal video gaming. It consists of individual competitors or teams facing off in popular games like Fortnite, League of Legends or Call of Duty. Unlike typical sports, you don’t need any equipment or set location. Because it’s more accessible to a larger group of people, members of the Esports program are able to compete against universities in states all across the country.
How do you access Esports? The University of Oregon offers students access to a secure online server where they can play with their fellow online friends, top-tier Esport athletes or regular outside players at anytime and place. It’s as easy as following a link on their website which will open you up to a world of competitive gaming you never knew existed.
Students who hold expert-level stats have the option to even join Varsity Esports. Varsity Esports differs in that it is a bigger commitment; students must have more experience, be prepared to participate in competitive matches against other schools and be committed to team strategizing practices.
The Esports program launched in the 2019-2020 school year and since then, they have opened the lounge, an area for students to collaborate, access high-end gaming technology as well as REALLY comfortable chairs. Because of COVID-19, the lounge has not been able to function to its fullest capacity however, it is still able to offer limited occupancy. Despite this, the online program has still been able to excel; they have increased their online community engagement by hosting remote tournaments, watch parties and game nights.
Jared Lawrence is not only a huge gamer but works for the program as well. Through Esports, he has made more friends and memories than he ever could have imagined. Especially during this last year, he is grateful for a community that made him feel like the world wasn’t falling apart.
“I love competition. Whether I do that as a player, coach or even a spectator. I think it builds a great community. The Esports Lounge is integral to that community. Having a space to plan events that can support the interests of your community is imperative to growth. It can be quite difficult to play a baseball game or organize an event without a field. The nature of the Esports Lounge allows it to be more diverse than a basketball court or football field.”
University of Oregon students are able to log in anytime & anywhere! All you have to do is follow the link down below… Game on!