Join me on a journey through the evolution of Pace Esports, from its humble beginnings as a student-run club to its current status as an official varsity sport. Experience the growth, the dedication, and the unwavering commitment to community and inclusivity that has shaped Pace Esports into what it is today. Get ready to explore the transformation and discover how gaming at Pace is for everyone.
The Birth of Pace Esports
Explore the origins of Pace Esports as a student-run club and its transformation into an official varsity sport.
In 2019, Pace Esports started as a student-run club, driven by a passionate group of gamers. With 40 students across 8 teams, the club laid the foundation for what would become a thriving program.
As the Vice President of the club's executive board, I witnessed the dedication and enthusiasm of our members firsthand. We were a close-knit community, united by our love for gaming and the desire to create something special.
Fast forward to 2021, and Pace Esports was officially recognized as the 15th varsity sport at Pace University. This milestone marked the beginning of a new era for our program, with increased resources, support, and opportunities.
The Growth and Expansion
Discover the remarkable growth of Pace Esports, from the number of teams and players to the establishment of dedicated facilities.
Since becoming an official varsity sport, Pace Esports has experienced exponential growth. In the 2022-2023 academic year, our program expanded to include over 90 students across 18 competitive teams. Today, we proudly boast 130 students and 24 teams, with over 900 students actively engaged in our gaming community.
One aspect that fills me with pride is the increasing number of women and nonbinary students joining our program. The percentage of female and nonbinary players has risen from 19% to 28% in just one year. We even have two all-women and nonbinary teams, known as our Lavender teams, fostering a supportive and inclusive environment.
Moreover, the establishment of dedicated facilities on both the Westchester and New York City campuses has been instrumental in fostering a sense of community. Our students now have a place they can call home, where they can connect, compete, and share their passion for gaming.
A Commitment to Inclusivity
Learn how Pace Esports embraces inclusivity and welcomes gamers of all skill levels and backgrounds.
While competitiveness is important to us, we firmly believe that gaming is for everyone. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting your gaming journey, Pace Esports welcomes you with open arms.
Our program is not solely focused on competitive gaming. We value the community aspect and provide opportunities for casual gamers to connect and enjoy their favorite games together. Our facilities have become a hub for students to gather, play, and forge lasting friendships.
It's heartwarming to see students from different backgrounds and skill levels come together, united by their shared love for gaming. We strive to create an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and respected.
Celebrating Achievements and Giving Back
Celebrate the accomplishments of Pace Esports and their efforts to give back to the gaming community.
Our competitive achievements are undoubtedly a source of pride. We have celebrated multiple Conference Championships and witnessed the dedication and hard work of our players paying off.
However, what truly makes me proud is the impact we have beyond the realm of competition. We have actively collaborated with local high schools, supporting their gaming tournaments and providing access to our facilities. Additionally, we hosted a summer camp that attracted students from all over the country and even internationally.
Being able to give back to the gaming community and inspire the next generation of gamers is incredibly rewarding. It's a testament to the values we hold dear and the positive impact gaming can have on individuals and communities.
The Future of Pace Esports
Get a glimpse into the future of Pace Esports and the exciting possibilities that lie ahead.
As we continue to grow and establish ourselves as a prominent Esports program, the future looks bright. With the support of our dedicated team and student leaders, we are ready to take on new challenges and push the boundaries of what Pace Esports can achieve.
While we have faced some learning curves and adjustments, such as transitioning to the National Esports Collegiate Conference, we are excited about the opportunities that lie ahead. We aim to build on our momentum, further enhance our facilities, and continue fostering a community that embraces diversity and inclusivity.
Join us on this thrilling journey as we pave the way for the future of Esports at Pace University.