Bemidji State, Northwest Tech to launch first-ever esports program in 2026

Yahoo

15-04-2025

Apr. 14—BEMIDJI — A collaborative effort between
Bemidji State,
Northwest Technical College
and Paul Bunyan Communications will result in a new program offering focused on technology and innovation.
Beginning in 2026, BSU and NTC will boast their first-ever esports program. Starting out as a club, hopes to expand the program into an intercollegiate varsity sport are on the horizon.
"Esports is one of the fastest-growing industries in the United States, and its appeal extends to the breadth of the diverse communities of northern Minnesota," BSU and NTC President John Hoffman said. "Esports is about more than just gaming. This competition is about preparing students for life skills and career skills: teamwork, collaboration, critical thinking and problem-solving in a dynamic, innovative, fast-paced environment."
Stakeholders from BSU, NTC and Paul Bunyan Communications announced the development during the latter's GigaZone Gaming Championship and TechXpo, which was held at the Sanford Center on Saturday.
The ever-increasing popularity of esports served as the catalyst for conversations surrounding a program at BSU and NTC that Paul Bunyan Communications could support financially.
"When we were thinking about who could make this work — and not only work, but work well — Paul Bunyan was the first on the list," BSU Athletic Director Britt Lauritsen said. "We know that in order to do esports well, we have to invest in the innovation and technology, and we have to find the experts in the field."
Partnering with Paul Bunyan Communications stemmed from a longstanding working relationship and philanthropic support for BSU and NTC.
"This has been a project we've wanted to do for a long time," said Allyssa Joseph, vice president of advancement and executive director of the BSU Alumni and Foundation. "There had been many conversations about esports at BSU. Ultimately, we have the right team in place."
At a crossroads with athletics and BSU's Technology, Art and Design Department, the esports program will make itself at home in Bridgeman Hall in the newly imagined GigaZone Esports Lounge. The lounge will feature all the necessary technology required for eager e-athletes to compete.
"BSU's investment in esports and the addition of the GigaZone Esports Lounge is a game-changer for students and our region," Paul Bunyan Communications CEO Chad Bullock said. "This partnership reflects our shared commitment to the future of education, technology and providing esports opportunities right here in northern Minnesota."
Next year's inception of esports will be the first baby step aimed at expanding the world of competition to BSU and NTC's student body.
"The world of esports and gaming is very diverse," Lauritsen left off. "We want to start with this big idea and allow as many folks from many walks of life from both campuses to be able to participate.
"We'll start off in a club setting. Once that's set up, we will go into the competitive space, start doing tournaments and really have that varsity roster that we've always dreamed of."
Those wanting more information on the esports program can contact the BSU admissions department at
[e-mail]
or
[phone];
or NTC admissions at
[e-mail]
or
[phone].