Trevor Hill
Sam Houston State University is recognizing its esports program as an official varsity sport, marking a significant shift from where it used to be as a student-led recreational organization.
The upgrade, which goes into effect the week of April 21, includes a new dedicated gaming space for practice, competitions and potential LAN events with other schools, showing off the university’s commitment to competitive gaming.
For years, SHSU Esports has operated as a grassroots effort driven by students with a passion. Now, the university is formalizing its support, providing resources and legitimacy to the growing program.
“This isn’t just the university tacking esports onto an existing department, this is SHSU Esports, with no subtitle, standing as its own entity,” said Ernie Romero, vice president of the program.
The program’s new facility will feature new equipment and serve as a hub for team practices, intramural competitions, and eventually intercollegiate events. The space will also allow SHSU to host LAN tournaments. These are tournaments or matches held in person rather than just playing online which helps foster connections with other universities.
Emily Hayde, president of SHSU Esports, emphasized the opportunity for growth. “This transition to varsity status isn’t just about legitimacy, it’s about ensuring future students can have the same experiences and sense of belonging that so many of us have had,” Hayde said.
The program’s transition to varsity status maintains its student-led foundation. Connor Rice, assistant director of intramural sports and esports, has worked closely with university administrators to secure funding while preserving the program’s community-focused system.
Numerous students credit the program with shaping their college experience.“For many of us, this isn’t just about gaming – it’s about finding a place to belong,” Romero said, recalling how he met his closest friends through the organization.
With varsity recognition and a dedicated facility, the program plans to expand its competitive teams, host more events and attract broader participation. As collegiate esports programs grow nationwide, SHSU’s investment ensures its teams can compete at a higher level while maintaining the student-driven culture that built the program.
The decision reflects a national trend of universities embracing esports as a legitimate competitive pursuit. For SHSU, it’s also a testament to years of student passion, now rewarded with institutional support.