Concord University Set For Second Annual Esports Summer Camp

Concord University in Athens is hosting a summer camp that aims to create more interest in its esports programs. It’s the second annual such event.

Esports are competitive, multiplayer video games played at a high level. They have grown in popularity as a spectator sport through online streaming.

Concord created its varsity esports program in 2019 as the first of its kind in the state. That came alongside the creation of an Esports Management major.

“The big thing for us is getting West Virginia on the map,” University Esports Director Austin Clay said in a 2021 interview. “It’s nice to know that even a small college with only 2,000 kids attending can get nationally recognized.” 

The summer camp is set to teach local students lessons in sportsmanship, teamwork, communication and leadership through competition in video games like Fortnite, Overwatch, Rocket League and Super Smash Bros. A tournament for the recently released Overwatch 2 is also scheduled on the last day of camp.

The camp also includes speakers involved in professional esports and time for outdoor play.

A camp for younger kids aged 9 to 13 is scheduled from June 19-23, while a camp for those aged 14 to 18 is scheduled from June 28-30. The cost to attend is $225.
Those interested in registering can do so online or email jsrose@concord.edu or akclay@concord.edu for more information.