Frequently Asked Questions
What are Esports?
Esports are competitive, team-based video games where teams of 3-6 players work together in real time to outsmart and outmaneuver another team of the same number of players. These games combine quick twitch fine motor control with the strategic maneuvering of chess and the teamwork of basketball
Our esports program aims to provide students with interests in gaming the opportunity to compete against other colleges across the United States. Intercollegiate esports has been a growing trend in colleges and universities across the United States and Anna Maria students is officially ready to "start".
How many Esports are there?
A LOT! Most similar to Track and Field, esports players usually specialize in only one game, while the team as a whole competes in a multitude of games.
Currently supported intercollegiate teams:
VALORANT, Counter Strike, Overwatch, Call of Duty, Fortnite, Apex, League of Legends, DOTA 2, Chess, Magic: The Gathering, Rainbow 6: Siege, Rocket League, Super Smash Bros, YUGIOH, Teamfight Tactics
Who do you compete against?
Anna Maria Esports competes at the collegiate conference and national level. We are members of the National Esports Collegiate Conference (NECC), Eastern College Athletic Conference (ECAC), and the National Association of Collegiate Esports (NACE).
What do we call people who are on the team?
Players. Players are usually identified by the game they play rather than as a generic esports player. Example: “I am on the esports team. I am a Valorant player.”
Are scholarships available?
Players are eligible for scholarship aid renewable for up to four years as long as they remain on the roster and are students in good standing academically. Scholarship aid will be distributed based on skill level and team needs.
Is Esports a varsity sport?
Our teams compete at a variety of different levels. The highest tier for each team is Varsity. These teams consist of the most talented players at Anna Maria for each title. Additionally, some programs offer a club level team which consist of students competing mostly for fun.
How can I join?
During the fall, each Esports title will run open tryouts for walk-ons. If you are interested in being recruited to Anna Maria Esports, please fill out the following form or email esports@annamaria.edu . Please include your contact details, the game to which you would like to be recruited, and your qualifications. Ex: Rank, Competitive Experience, References
Are students required to provide their own equipment?
No, Anna Maria Esports will use our Esports Center for all practices and competitions. This state-of-the-art gaming center contains 15 high-end gaming PCs and 3 console gaming stations with lounge-style seating. Students are welcome to bring personal peripherals, but all equipment will be provided.
How are students on the esports program supported academically?
Helping students succeed academically is the number one priority of Anna Maria Esports staff. The Esports Director conducts periodic grade check-ins to ensure players are succeeding in the classroom. The Esports Program works closely with the Student Success Center to ensure students are getting the resources they need to be successful in the classroom.