New York, NY - The John Jay College Athletics & Recreation Department will launch its first-ever Esports program for the college community this upcoming Spring 2021 semester. The word "Esports" describes the world of competitive, organized video gaming. As part of the college's recreational offerings, Esports competitors will face off with other college students in the Eastern College Athletic Conference (ECAC).

"We are thrilled to offer Esports competitions to our over 15,000 students, faculty, and staff this spring," stated Cat Alves, Deputy Director of Athletics, Recreation, and Intramurals. "It is more important than ever to find ways to connect with our college community while studying and working from home. Esports is an emerging industry where all types of people, of all different backgrounds, can compete, converse, and build relationships, even virtually."

John Jay will offer competitions in ten titles for an eight-week regular season, followed by a playoff tournament. Participants can compete using their own equipment at home and connect with each other through Discord. To join the John Jay Esports Discord server, click here: https://discord.gg/v8nmC28sax. To join the ECAC Discord server, click here: https://discord.gg/KEYQQDk

"This is our first step in our journey to develop Esports opportunities at John Jay," noted Alves. "We are appreciative to make our home at the ECAC, whose growth in the Esports sphere has been impressive and always professional. Our membership allows us to offer an expansive range of titles to an unlimited amount of students."

Registration will be open through January 31, 2021. Registration is a two-step process: First, register for Spring 2021 competitions at ECAC Leaguespot; Second, fill out our short registration form so we can put you on the correct roster, assign captains, etc. 

For title and schedule information, visit our Esports site at www.johnjayathletics.com/esports. Tell us about your interest in Esports by completing our survey here.