ROCK HILL, SOUTH CAROLINA – The opening of a new home for Winthrop University’s Esports program is being called a “game changer” that will keep the university a leader in the sport.
Winthrop’s Esports program has made waves since its inception in 2019 with two national titles, one regional title and multiple tournament appearances. The university’s three esports teams – Valorant, League of Legends and Super Smash Bros. – have since needed a bigger place to call home, and that dream is being realized this month.
On Thursday, Nov. 30, a ribbon-cutting ceremony will take place at 9 a.m. at the new Winthrop Esports Center in the Lowenstein Building, 300 Technology Way, Suite 223. The center is within walking distance of the main campus in what is a growing hub between Winthrop and downtown Rock Hill.
Hosted by Winthrop Athletics and the York County Regional Chamber of Commerce, the ceremony will feature a ribbon cutting, a facility tour and refreshments.
The 6,500-square-foot center contains five varsity team game room spaces, a large open game room with seating for 56, a conference/team meeting room and four offices. Its lease with the Tuttle Company will run through June 30, 2028.
At a press conference this spring announcing the center, Winthrop President Edward Serna noted how Winthrop’s program has soared and become a national contender in the field. Moving out of its Owens Hall space to Lowenstein will set it apart even further, he said. Serna also thanked the Board of Trustees for their support of the Esports program.
Esports Coach Josh Sides has talked about how Winthrop will now have more room to host community events, bring in local high schools and recreation leagues, and more. “It’s a real statement of intent and lends a lot of legitimacy to what we’re doing here,” Sides said.
He pointed to the expansion of University Center, the Thread and other up-and-coming projects in downtown Rock Hill as one of many things students can look forward to.
With the additional space, Winthrop’s Esports program will be able to expand to include JV and club divisions. Available teams are League of Legends, Valorant, and Overwatch, while support roles include video editing, casting, stream production and more. Financial aid assistance also is available.
For more Esports information, contact Josh Sides at sidesj@winthrop.edu or visit www.winthrop.edu/esports.
