Braylan adds, “Leagues like the National Esports Collegiate Conference (NECC) allow an unlimited number of team rosters to compete, meaning every skill level can be involved in competitive team play.”
Along with offering a form of student interaction that traditional recreational services have not previously provided, Campus Recreation hopes that the facility will encourage mindful use of time and considerate selection of games that align with UNC Asheville’s goals.
But how do esports competitions work? Do they compete at varsity level, or Division I like other UNC Asheville sports teams?
Braylan deconstructed the numerous ways to play video games at the collegiate level.
“Universities can participate in major esports leagues such as National Association of College Esports (NACE) and NECC, enabling them to enter into varsity competitions. NACE provides an open division for emerging programs, where universities are grouped into skill-based divisions and compete against other institutions,” Braylyn explains.
“Teams progress through league difficulty as they become better in-game,” he adds. “If teams become higher ranked, they get placed in a more difficult group. During the group stages, the top 2-3 teams progress to a bracket stage – like March Madness – where they compete against the top universities.”
With the world of esports now at UNC Asheville, Campus Recreation is already uncovering some highly talented players here on campus. As the University gains traction in the world of esports, it’s even possible the new center will help recruit more players to come here in the near future.
Just like our stellar Division 1 sports teams, esports students could soon represent UNC Asheville on the national stage, but through a computer and headset, no court required.
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