Ripon College to launch competitive esports team in fall of 2025

Ripon College is proud to announce the establishment of its inaugural esports team, which will begin competitive competition in the fall of 2025. Under the guidance of an experienced director/coach, for which a national search will launch in the spring of 2024, and with plans to join the National Association of Collegiate Esports (NACE), the team will represent Ripon College in intercollegiate competitions, showcasing their skills and sportsmanship on a national stage.

Ripon College Director of Athletics Chris Schumacher expressed enthusiasm for the launch of the esports team, stating, “We are thrilled to embrace the esports phenomenon and provide our students with opportunities to excel in this rapidly growing industry while bolstering the College’s commitment to embracing innovation and fostering community engagement.”

Beyond diversifying Ripon’s menu of extracurricular activities, the College anticipates that the launch of esports will serve as an additional recruitment tool and a bridge to STEM-related academic offerings. In addition to the $24.5 million renovation and expansion of the Franzen Science Center, scheduled to open in December 2024, the launch of esports will be accompanied by an investment in a modern and technologically advanced, on-campus esports arena.

“The connections between this esports launch and our advances in STEM education and infrastructure confirms the campus’ commitment to innovation while leveraging institutional strengths,” says Dr. Victoria N. Folse, Ripon College president. “This will signal to prospective students and families Ripon College’s willingness to adapt and remain relevant in the ever-evolving marketplace in higher education.”