Students play in the NIU Esports Arena in Altgeld Hall.
We’re excited that Northern Illinois University has been chosen as the new home of the Illinois High School Esports Association (IHSEA) – giving us the chance to engage with high school esports athletes from across the state!
Beginning in the 2023-24 schoolyear, NIU will host championship tournaments for the association’s competitive video game leagues. Tournaments for the twelve games – ranging from PC games such as League of Legends to console games such as Super Smash Bros. Ultimate – will take place in the Esports Arena in NIU’s Altgeld Hall.
NIU Esports and the IHSEA expect to welcome 700 to 900 high school esports student athletes, 150 teachers and coaches, and the students’ families to campus during the esports season. This presents an incredible recruiting opportunity for NIU, as well as a chance for high school students to learn more about collegiate opportunities, according to NIU Esports Director Conner Vagle.
