Ericksen hired to start Esports Team

(Howell, Mich.) -- The fastest growing sport in college athletics will have a new home in Fall 2021 as Jarod Ericksen has been hired to start the Esports team at Cleary University. 

Ericksen is no stranger to starting a program from scratch as he has recently been the head coach at Waubonsee Community College in Sugar Grove, Illinois. Ericksen was intrumental in building that program as well as the construction of the arena that houses the Chief's program.

"I am excited for the opportunity to once again grow a program from the ground up," said Ericksen. "Not only in building a roster but also seeing the development of the on-campus arena."

Cleary University will be dedicating space in the Cleary Commons to build the Esports Arena.

One advantage for Ericksen will be his new full-time position with the Cougars, which will allow him to fully dedicate himself to constructing the necessary roster and for organizing not only a collegiate-level program, but also opening the facility to other students on campus as well as hosting potential tournaments open to the general public. 

"I loved my time at Waubonsee, but knowing what we're capable of accomplishing at Cleary was too good to pass up," he said. 

In addition to coaching, Ericksen is also an accomplished gamer himself. Ranked in the top 1% of players in both Heroes of the Storm and League of Legends, Ericksen had visions of being a professional gamer. 

"When I realized I had reached my maximum level, I wanted to find avenues where I could share my knowledge and passion," he said. "As a former soccer player, and long-time soccer coach, I believe I have the ability to connect with each player on both a personal and team level. I'm excited to see what we can establish in the very near future."

The Cougar program will be focused on the games League of Legends, Overwatch, Rocket League, and Hearthstone in their first season.

Prospective student-athletes are welcome to complete the Cougars Recruitment Form or contact Coach Ericksen at jericksen@cleary.edu.