The Head Coach of Esports provides leadership and vision for the Esports program, including the hiring and supervision of Esports coaching staff, recruiting and training work studies, recruiting student-athletes, coaching, and facility management. Responsible for the day to day operations and supervising a comprehensive program including current games and providing leadership and growth/change in game offerings. Will successfully lead and oversee the Esports program in a cost-effective manner. Responsible for developing summer camp/conference experiences to assist with developing a healthy community of gamers and enhancing revenue, as well as growing sponsor/partner/donor revenue to support the Esports program.
In order to be successful in this position, the ideal candidate will:
- Work with appropriate faculty and other students to build a productive broadcasting strategy that will build brand recognition, increase viewership and attract sponsors.
- Develop a healthy, competitive community of gamers and establish guidelines, policies and norms that support student health and well-being, inclusivity, and competitive excellence Coordinate recruitment and scholarship activities.
- Recruit and retain student-athletes with total roster size of 25-28 participants with potential for further growth.
- Oversee the academic progress of student athletes and maintain retention and graduation goals.
- Establish an effective schedule for practices and games (league & tournament schedule coordination)
- Maintain the Esports facility and equipment.
- Evaluate player and contribute to their growth as a student-athlete
- Prepare a budget within established guidelines Organize and manage summer camps for prospective esport student-athletes
- Promote attendance at Esports events by providing information to students, faculty, staff and the public and work collaboratively with sports information.
- Build pipeline of K-12 interests by working with school districts in the region to assist in the development of esports programs and the expansion of current programs
- Put on camps, seminars, and other esports events to build awareness and encourage participation with regional school districts.
- Work with the director of development to identify and secure private funding through donors, company partnerships and sponsorships to supplement budgets and expand the esports arena
- Further the growth of esports education at WVU
- Represent WVU PSC in a professional/positive manner on campus, in the community, and at sponsored events/ contests.
- Work collaboratively with the Director of Esports to maintain compliance with conference by-laws and eligibility rules.
- Act as a promotional agent for the college and team, in collaboration with the Director of Athletics, to get local, state and national recognition.
- Attend meetings as required by the Director of Athletics and/or Dean of Student Experience.
- Organize and manage summer camps for prospective esport student-athlete
Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree or an equivalent combination of education and/or directly related experience. Master's degree preferred
- Relevant experience in Esports as a player or coach is preferred.
- Successful recruiting and coaching experience at the high school or college level is preferred.
- Social media and graphic design experience are a plus
- Twitch/YouTube video editing skills are a plus
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to effectively recruit a full roster as designated by supervisor
- Excellent understanding of the intricacies and strategies of at least one of these games: Rocket League, League of Legends, Call of Duty or Valorant preferred