The following is a press release provided to InvenGlobal and has been published verbatim.

The University of Kansas announces the formation of a varsity level esports team, and starting in January 2020, will compete in League of Legends. The Jayhawk Esports Team will be comprised of current KU students, many of which have been already competing at a high esports level via the student organization KU Gaming Community. The KU Memorial Union will provide program support and coaching as part of their ongoing efforts with student programs and events.

“This is an exciting moment in KU history and a great opportunity to showcase a formalized esports team made up of a talented group of students,” said Michelle Compton-Muñoz, who will serve as KU’s first esports coach. “The opportunity to add esports to the programs available at KU and provide the students with official training, offers not only much needed support to current students but also expands opportunities for generations to come."

Jayhawk Esports will join the National Association of Collegiate Esports (“NACE”), which was formed in July of 2016 and is committed to helping its members grow strong esports programs to benefit colleges and students alike. Currently NACE counts more than 175 institutions as members, representing 94% of all varsity programs in across North America.

Jayhawk Esports team trials will be held November 17th. Students interested in participating should submit their information at union.ku.edu/Jayhawk-Esports or contact Compton-Muñoz at mcompton@ku.edu.