Wichita State Esports has continued its ascent as one of the nation’s most competitive collegiate programs, building on a foundation of student success, national recognition, and competitive excellence.
Since its launch in 2019, Wichita State Esports has grown into a nationally recognized powerhouse that helps shape the collegiate gaming landscape. Now in its sixth year, the program operates under the leadership of director Joe Mazzara and program manager MacKenzie Kessler, both dedicated to advancing student development and maintaining the program’s winning tradition.
Wichita State’s influence extends beyond campus. Mazzara serves on the Board of Directors for the National Association of Collegiate Esports and participates on two national seeding committees that help shape championships across the country.
On the competitive front, Wichita State’s teams continue to excel across multiple titles. The Shockers currently hold national rankings in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate at number 10, Call of Duty at number 7, and Rocket League at number 30. The program’s Valorant and Overwatch teams have also earned appearances in post season national tournaments, along with a long list of Eastern College Athletic Conference (ECAC) championships.
Currently, Wichita State Esports includes nearly 60 student athletes and an additional 10 student staff members, the largest roster in the program’s history. Scholarship athletes are recruited from across the nation to join teams that are known for both competitive success and student leadership.
Wichita State teams regularly compete at major national events such as the National Association of Collegiate Esports National Championship, CECC May Madness, and DreamHack Atlanta. These opportunities deepen the student experience and place Shockers on some of the most visible stages in collegiate esports.
The program operates from a dedicated facility in the recently reopened Corbin Education Center. The space features 15 gaming PC stations, four console stations, two projectors, a student lounge area, and a trophy case that showcases the accomplishments of past and present Shocker teams.
As Wichita State Esports looks ahead, the mission remains clear. The program will continue to pair competitive excellence with student development while representing the university on the national stage.