Elevating the Collegiate Esports Experience: What’s Next for Conferences and Regional Development

Ramsey Jamoul, Founder & CEO 9/19/2024

As someone deeply invested in the growth and structure of collegiate esports, I’m excited to share the latest developments and future possibilities for the Mid-Atlantic Esports Conference (MAEC) and the Midwest Esports Conference (MEC). We’ve seen tremendous progress in recent years, not just in the scale of our events, but in the overall quality of the player experience and community engagement. Here’s how we’re raising the bar and what’s on the horizon for collegiate esports.

Enhancing Player Experience and Conference Structure

At the heart of our efforts is the player experience. We’ve revamped our production standards, offering fully produced weekly broadcasts for both the MEC and MAEC. These streams aren’t just a showcase for our players’ skills—they’re a testament to our commitment to elevating collegiate esports to the level of traditional sports. Consistent, high-quality broadcasts help players gain visibility, making their efforts feel seen and celebrated on a broader stage.

But it’s not just about what happens on screen. We’ve doubled down on live, in-person events with two guaranteed LAN experiences per year for each conference. These events are more than just competitions—they’re community-building opportunities. Players, coaches, and fans come together, creating a vibrant atmosphere that goes beyond the virtual realm. This is a crucial step in making esports more tangible and engaging for everyone involved.

Expanding Our Reach and Building a Competitive Field

One of the most exciting developments is our regional expansion. The MAEC has grown beyond its initial territory to include schools from Delaware and Pennsylvania, while the MEC continues to strengthen its presence in the Midwest. This growth not only diversifies the talent pool but also brings fresh energy and perspectives to our conferences. More schools mean more competition, and that’s a win for everyone—players get to test their skills against a broader field, and fans get to witness even more thrilling matchups.

Strategic Partnerships and Future Opportunities

Perhaps the biggest game-changer has been our partnership with Riot Games’ College League of Legends program. Being part of this program means that the MAEC champion now gets an automatic bid to the College Championship each spring. This isn’t just a boost for the conference—it’s a huge opportunity for our players to compete on a national stage, potentially opening doors to professional careers in esports.

Looking ahead, we’re exploring even more ways to integrate esports into the collegiate experience. This could mean expanded scholarship opportunities, more partnerships with academic programs, and a stronger support network for our student-athletes. We’re committed to building an environment where students can thrive both in competition and in their academic pursuits.

What’s Next?

As we continue to grow and refine our conferences, the possibilities are endless. We’re setting new standards for what collegiate esports can be, and I’m thrilled to see how far we can take it. With the ongoing support of institutions, sponsors, and the community, we’re poised to make an even greater impact. Whether it’s expanding into new regions, adding more game titles, or enhancing our live events, the future of collegiate esports is looking brighter than ever.

Stay tuned—this is just the beginning.