Southwestern Michigan College is touting its Esports program as Esports become more popular around the country. SMC Campus Life Director Jeff Hooks tells WSJM News students from Berrien Springs, Covert, and Hartford toured the new Esports Arena in the Barbara Wood Building in November. SMC built the state of the art tech space for students to take part in competitive video game playing.
“We just wanted to give students space where they could compete with other schools,” Hooks said. “We’re a member of the NECC, which is the national Esports collegiate conference. In that conference, we play against schools from all over the country.”
Hooks says offering ESports is part of offering the college experience these days. He believes a benefit is that any student can join.
“You learn about being on a sports team, interacting with your peers, and instilling some school pride.”
Mostly, they play Rocket League, but the games can change year to year. Hooks says SMC is now offering Esports scholarships.
