Concordia Nebraska esports enjoys successful season, Valorant team claims Central Conference Championship

This Concordia University, Nebraska esports fall season was a rollercoaster of excitement and growth for the program’s teams.  

“The League of Legends and Rocket League teams both battled hard in highly competitive brackets, finishing with identical 3-4 records, showcasing moments of brilliance and setting a foundation for future success,” said Concordia Nebraska esports coach Ryan Hinds.  

The Overwatch team shone brightly with an impressive 5-2 record, demonstrating excellent coordination and individual skill that propelled them into contention throughout the season. However, the highlight of the year came from the Valorant team, which matched Overwatch’s 5-2 record during the regular season and went on an electrifying playoff run to claim the Central Conference Championship.  

The Valorant team’s success this year stands as a testament to their hard work and the bright future of Concordia esports

“Across all titles, Concordia’s esports program showed promise and determination, laying the groundwork for future dominance. The Valorant team’s championship run was a true display of skill, strategy and leadership. In the Conference Final against Tarleton State, Concordia clinched a thrilling 3-1 victory, capped off by a dramatic 15-13 double-overtime win on the final map,” said Hinds. 

Tytus Woodburn ("Tywood") delivered the season’s highest eliminations, dominating the scoreboard and playing a pivotal role in the team’s success. Meanwhile, Andrew Fynaardt ("Draeyf") and Walter Riebau ("LuthranKnight") tied for the most assists across the match, each contributing 27 key plays that elevated the team's performance.  

“A special callout goes to team captain Noah Leeper ("gigglespotato"), whose leadership and strategic guidance were instrumental in navigating the team through challenging moments and ultimately securing the championship title,” said Hinds. “The Valorant team’s success this year stands as a testament to their hard work and the bright future of Concordia esports.”  

Concordia Nebraska esports participants compete in League of Legends, Overwatch and Rocket League, three of the most popular games in college esports. In Rocket League and Overwatch, Concordia Nebraska belongs to the National Esports Collegiate Conference.  

Esports, short for electronic sports, is a form of competition using video games. Esports often takes the form of organized, multiplayer video game competitions, particularly between professional players, individually or as teams. Most people don’t realize that universities like Concordia Nebraska have esports teams. These teams not only offer opportunities for fun and fellowship with teammates but may also mean scholarship opportunities for students. Concordia Nebraska esports participants come from a variety of backgrounds and include a variety of majors including education, DCE, computer science, business, marketing and more.