A Budding Opprotunity; CCE

On Friday, August 17th, in the Alumni Auditorium of Champlain College, students gathered for a public forum held by the new Electronic sports (Esports) division of Champlain College (Champlain College Esports, C.C.E. ).

The forum focused on providing information to Champlain College students, on the benefits of C.C.E., and the opportunities it provides to students interested in becoming part of the program, both as a player for a team and as a student staff member.

Led by Christian Konczal, Director of Esports, C.C.E. is in the process of being recognized by the School Board as an official part of Champlain College. Being currently recognized only as a club brings operational challenges when it comes to gaining necessary equipment and holding events to promote the program.

"Despite what we are given we are going to make the most of it," said Alex Barnett, A Senior of Champlain College and director of marketing and partnerships for C.C.E. With a current budget of just $3,275, C.C.E. is looking towards official recognition by Champlain College to receive better financial support to host more community events and gain the resources necessary to support multiple competitive teams across many games.

The essence of C.C.E. is creating Varsity and Junior Varsity competitive gaming teams to compete in national and international competitions and tournaments for a myriad of different video games. Winning these competitions provides money for scholarships, improving the college facilities, and promotes what educational paths Champlain College has to offer.

"The difference between Varsity and Junior Varsity is school support and time commitment.” Said, one student C.C.E. staff member. Varsity Esports members will receive school scholarships and more opportunities for training in the “Champlain College Esports Space” currently under construction in the Miller Center and set to open officially this coming spring.

Varsity members are projected to receive tuition scholarships of roughly 3.5 thousand dollars for being a part of C.C.E. In addition, when C.C.E. becomes an official program, Varsity players will have requirements that are not in place at this time, to maintain their program eligibility. Including but not limited to maintaining a minimum 2.5 GPA, as well as mandatory fitness to maintain personal health, and community service to name a few requirements outlined during the forum.

Written by Jake Baranowski

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