seven esports players pose for a team photo in aiken quad wearing their esports jerseys

Champlain College is thrilled to announce the elevation of our Overwatch Blue team to varsity status, marking the addition of a third varsity team within our rapidly expanding esports program. This milestone is a testament to the dedication, skill, and community spirit of the Overwatch Blue team and the broader Champlain Esports community.

The Overwatch Blue team’s journey from a club team to varsity status is one of perseverance, passion, and unparalleled success. Their achievement is a significant milestone, not only for the team but for Champlain College as a whole. This is the first time in our history that a club team has been promoted to the varsity level—a move that underscores our commitment to nurturing talent, fostering growth, and adapting to the evolving interests of our student body.

Champlain College has always prided itself on cultivating an environment where students can thrive both academically and personally. The Overwatch Blue team embodies this ethos. They are not just competitors; they are ambassadors of our values. Their commitment to community-building is evident in their active participation in our annual Extra Life charity fundraiser, their unwavering support for other varsity and club teams, and the strong relationships they’ve forged with other institutions. The team has grown into a vibrant community that now supports three separate teams, all of which have contributed to their own impressive competitive successes.

In just three years, Champlain Esports has grown rapidly, establishing itself as a powerhouse in the collegiate esports arena. Our program has won over 15 championships, earned consistent top 10 rankings on social media among all collegiate programs, and garnered national recognition. The inaugural Collegiate Team Award from the Children’s Miracle Network Hospital and Extra Life organizations is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our entire esports community.

The promotion of Overwatch Blue to varsity status is not just a celebration of their achievements but a reflection of the strength and potential of Champlain Esports as a whole. We are proud to have built a pipeline that allows us to recognize and elevate our students’ efforts in such a meaningful way. This accomplishment showcases our ability to adapt and grow alongside our students, ensuring that Champlain College remains at the forefront of collegiate esports.

As we look to the future, we are excited to continue building on this momentum. The addition of Overwatch Blue to our varsity lineup is just the beginning. We are committed to supporting our students as they pursue their passions, and we look forward to seeing what they will achieve next.

headshot of john player
John Player is a Champlain alum and the coach of the varsity Overwatch Blue team

Please join us in congratulating the Overwatch Blue team on this remarkable accomplishment! We are extremely eager to see them continue to excel as a varsity team.

Overwatch Blue team

Athlete Name Position
Marc Davis Player
Nathan Peacock Player
Thomas Eykelhoff Player
Kevin Botsaris Player
Zach Alexander Player
Nick Rivera Player
Nathan Magold Manager
Yaro Mikhnevych Assistant Coach
John Player Coach

Here’s to the next chapter in Champlain Esports—where passion meets possibility, and every challenge is an opportunity to shine. 

Lets Go Champs!

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Christian Konczal
Christian Konczal
Director of Esports
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