The Augustana esports team recently underwent a director change since last semester. The new director for the esports team is Peyton Tucker, who is replacing former director Joe Loomis. Despite the change in director, not a lot has changed for the Vikings. This is due to the nature of the esports program requiring the Vikings to be independent and self-motivated.

Practice for the esports program is self-organized, and scheduling is flexible to accommodate students’ varying availability. Team captains and managers find themselves leading the charge when it comes to helping their fellow Vikings practice their respective games under the lead of the current director.                                          

Along with the change of director for the program, the esports team has recently seen an increase in their numbers. For the Overwatch team, the addition of First-Year students has been a positive change.

“For the Overwatch team, they’re mostly new, so it’s a big change, but the transition is going well,” junior Andrew Johns said. 

The esports team competes in several popular games, including League of Legends, Overwatch and Valorant. These games all vary regarding playing style and game goals, thus requiring different coaching for each game at each practice. This is something that has not changed despite Tucker coming in.

“He doesn’t coach for every team. We all still have the games that we play. So, not a whole lot has changed from the transition between directors [in regards to how the practice works],” junior Donovan Garro said. 

Another change within the team is the greater focus on trying to compete against stronger opponents rather than trying to remain undefeated.

“Our current goals include adjusting to the higher tier and facing stronger opposition. The team’s goal is no longer to remain undefeated, but rather to make the playoffs and thrive in a more difficult environment,” junior Mason Love said. 

The Augustana esports program navigates change in the coaching staff and goals with a fresh viewpoint and resilient team members. As esports evolves, the program serves as a testament to adaptation, perseverance and a growing community of esports enthusiasts. 

“The esports program has a bright future, and it’s a growing sport,” Johns said. “I’m looking forward to seeing it grow and become even stronger.”