Trine launching esports program

Trine University will launch an esports program beginning in the fall of 2017.

Esports events involve competitive multiplayer online video gaming. A growing number of colleges and universities are offering esports programs; this fall, the University of California at Irvine became the first public research university to offer an esports program, including an arena and academic scholarships offered to students on the team.

“I am excited about the newest opportunity for our students to represent Trine University and our athletic department,” said Matt Land, assistant vice president for athletics. “Esports puts an exciting, innovative and unique spin on competition that will allow us to address the new interests of our students. Our esports competitors will be supported with a brand new state-of-the-art facility that will be housed in the MTI Center upon completion.”

Trine has named Alex Goplin, who currently serves as an assistant director of admission, as its director of esports.  Goplin started his undergraduate career as a student-athlete on the university’s first MIAA championship football team.

“Extracurricular activities have always been a big part of my life, whether it be athletics, video games or getting involved in other activities,” Goplin said. “Esports is an exciting new venture for the university, it will enhance our students’ experience, and I am excited and grateful to begin this journey!”

Trine University’s team will begin competition with Riot Games’ League of Legends, and add teams in Counterstrike, Hearthstone, Dota 2 and Heroes of the Storm. Following the use of a temporary facility for 2017-18, the university is planning for a state-of-the-art esports facility to be located in the new, multimillion-dollar MTI Center when it opens in 2018. The MTI Center will also be home to an athletic and event center featuring basketball courts, a six-lane bowling alley and a premier fitness center.

In addition to merit-based scholarships, qualified new students  admitted to Trine University for the fall semester 2017 will be eligible for a $2,000 Esports Activity Award, renewable annually provided the student continues participation and at the discretion of the coach.

For more information and updates on Trine University’s esports program, visit trinethunder.com/sports/esports/ or contact Goplin at goplina@trine.edu or 260.665.4175.