Taking sport to the next level

Taking sport to the next level

Multi-billion dollar esports industry is alive and thriving at Fanshawe.

Tyler Hetherington, Fanshawe’s esports coordinator, has been the driving force behind the growth of Fanshawe’s gaming community. A dedicated gamer himself, Tyler describes esports at Fanshawe as “going to a whole new level” over the past two years with the community swelling to more than 1,000 members—a 35 per cent increase since the beginning of 2020.

Dylan showing his championship ring and trophy.

The Fanshawe Student Union (FSU) has since partnered with Fanshawe Athletics to form an esports varsity program comprised of seven teams competing against colleges and universities across North America in popular titles such as League of Legends, Overwatch and Rocket League.

Esports provided connections for students who felt isolated during the pandemic.

Trevor Walker, a student in the Cyber Security program, was part of a team that won scholarships for placing fourth in a yearlong Overwatch league.

“It is awesome to see how far esports has come in the collegiate scene,” says Trevor. “I love to share my passion and teach others about the game.” “Esports provided connections and an outlet for students who felt isolated during the pandemic,” adds Tyler. “They may not have strong connections within their program, but they can meet like-minded people through gaming.”

Dylan Francis, a Business Administration – Leadership and Management student, credits esports for helping him cope with isolation during the pandemic. Despite being new to esports, Dylan won a North American championship in the popular soccer title, FIFA 21. While he was awarded a championship ring and jacket, it’s the friendships he has forged over the past two years that mean the most to him.

“The community gave me a place to compete and get to know a bunch of other students,” he says. “I was able to make a lot of new friends who I look forward to meeting in person!”