Mayville, N.D. - Mayville State University officially joined the growing world of competitive gaming this spring, announcing Esports as a co-ed sport in March 2025. Competing in the National Esports Collegiate Conference (NECC), the Comets will field teams in Valorant and Rocket League, taking on opponents that range from Division I universities to junior colleges.

The program opened its fall competition schedule on September 22 with a strong start, as the Valorant squad earned a thrilling 3-2 victory over Buena Vista in their season debut. The win marks a milestone for the program, which will continue to build momentum as Rocket League makes its first appearance on September 24 in a match up against Bismarck State College.

For those new to the Esports scene, Valorant is a five-on-five tactical hero shooter that requires precision, communication, and strategy, while Rocket League offers a unique spin on soccer with players piloting rocket-powered cars to score goals in high-energy, fast-paced matches.

Guiding the program is Ryan Rodriguez, who wears multiple hats at Mayville State. Rodriguez, the assistant men's basketball coach and HPER faculty member, has taken on the role of head coach for Comet Esports while continuing his basketball and teaching duties.

"We are excited to compete in the NECC and continue to grow the program for Mayville State University," said Rodriguez. "Previously, Esports was a club sport at MSU so the transition has been very excited and eye opening for all of us."

The Comets currently feature a roster of 16 student-athletes who compete and train in Mayville State's Esports Lab, located in Berg Hall. The lab provides a dedicated space for practice and competition, bringing a new energy to campus athletics.

For full schedule information and results visit: https://msucomets.com/sports/esports/schedule