Hall named ALC Esports Head Coach

STAFF REPORT

BSN

PIPPA PASSES — Alex Hall has been named the new Alice Lloyd College Esports Head Coach.

In addition to his coaching duties, Hall also serves ALC as the Administrative Assistant to the Provost.

Hall, a native of Harlan, graduated from ALC in 2023. He was asked to explain about the Esports program.

“College-level Esports involves organized competitive video gaming within universities and colleges,” said Hall. “Students participate as players representing their institutions, similar to traditional athletes. They compete in various video games such as League of Legends, Overwatch and Rocket League, often in official collegiate leagues and tournaments. These leagues are run much like any other sport, with a regular season and playoffs for a conference or national championship.

“Many schools, including ours, have dedicated Esports programs that provide players with resources like coaching, scholarships and practice facilities. Matches are typically broadcasted on streaming platforms like Twitch, allowing fans to watch and support their teams.”

When asked about his outlook and goals as far as building the Esports program at ALC, the new head coach replied, “This presents Alice Lloyd a great prospect for gaining quality students since the Eastern Kentucky region currently is not home to many college Esports teams. With my background in Esports, I hope to establish a strong foundation and elevate the program. We will enter the Eastern College Athletic Conference (ECAC) for the first time, so my main goal is to develop a stable and successful program for the school where our student-athletes experience great opportunities and have the chance to be successful.”

The ECAC hosts Esports competitions. In the inaugural 2018-2019 season, 23 member schools fielded over 100 teams across six different game titles. The ECAC has expanded across North America, now reaching Canada. Over 180 ECAC Esports member schools fielded over 1,300 teams across 18 different games and divisions. While the ECAC Esports season competition is conducted online, there will be fall and spring events conducted in person.

In conclusion, when asked what he was most looking forward to in this new role, Hall responded, “What I look forward to the most is helping students improve regardless of their skill level. I also desire to see them succeed inside the classroom as well.”