Varsity Esports

Our program isn't just about playing. We give you opportunities to develop valuable skills that will make you successful inside and outside the classroom.

Join the Varsity Esports Team

If you're interested in playing or coaching for Illinois State esports, fill out our interest form to get more information.

We hold semi-annual group tryouts for varsity titles in early March and October. We also hold individual tryouts year-round.

As a varsity gamer at Illinois State, you get:

A scholarship for your game title
Dedicated practice and competition space
Expert coaching and support staff

Current Varsity Titles

League of Legends

Overwatch

Rocket League

Title Selection Process

Collegiate esports does not have a universally-recognized governing body. We choose our varsity titles using the following guidelines.

Student Interest

We pay close attention to what our students play on campus. Even if a game is popular on campus, there may be factors that limit us to offer it as a varsity title.

Developer/Publisher Support & Leagues

We rely on intellectual property holders to provide competitive leagues and tournaments.

Prize Pool

We invest in our players with scholarships. To help offset those costs, we consider the potential tournament prize pool.

Competition

We look at titles other universities offer for varsity sports. While we plan to be a leader be one of the first universities to offer varsity status to up and coming titles, we want to make sure we set our players up for success.

Not interested in Varsity?

Campus Gamers

Connect and play with gamers who share your interests, whether you play competitively or casually.

Redbird Gaming
Redbird Esports Network (REN)

You don’t have to be a gamer to have a career in esports. REN gives you hands-on experience with the gaming industry.

Get Involved with REN