Principia Introduces eSports
Principia created an eSports program this year as part of a fast-growing phenomenon among colleges and universities in the U.S. and around the globe.
Part of the North Region of TESPA, a North American collegiate eSports organization, Principia competed in round-robin play in Overwatch, League of Legends, and Hearthstone. Principians faced teams from Division I, II, and III schools in the TESPA Collegiate Series and the first-ever NACE League of Legends Invitational, among other competitions. The best result came in March against Michigan State, with Principia winning overall, and in April opposite Columbia College, with the team taking a game from the top seed.
Being able to offer students already involved individually in eSports a structured program and supportive community of likeminded thinkers has been a big blessing—and it’s expected to bless others. Principia’s team emphasizes ethical play and prides itself on an inclusive, supportive team vibe. “The goal is to provide opportunities for students to share Christian Science in an environment often in need of leavening,” comments Rob Terrell, Assistant Director of Events for Athletics and the team’s coach. “The genre has largely gotten a bad rap, and we aim to be a light.”
Another benefit is the opportunity for students to qualify for scholarship funding based on their success in competition. Also, through Principia connections, team members can secure valuable internship opportunities with industry leaders such as TESPA and Blizzard Entertainment.
Earlier in the semester, students in the program attended presentations by author and game designer Jonathan Ying, who discussed expressive storytelling and mechanical theming to create narratives that combine with the art and design of video games. Alongside Ying, Clayton Harper (C’14), a graduate student in game studies at the University of Texas at Dallas, discussed game design and video game theory and shared insight about career paths in the industry.
“Students in our eSports program practice demonstrating Principia’s learning outcomes,” notes Dr. Joseph Ritter, Provost. “Participation in eSports requires our students to demonstrate critical and creative thinking, effective communication, and teamwork—and to act on the basis of Principle.”
Already looking ahead to next season, Terrell notes, “The eSports program has accomplished a great deal in the months since its establishment and expects to continue progressing into the fall season, championship bound!”