Pearl River adds eSports for Fall 2025

Dylan Dunaway - PRCC Sports Information

POPLARVILLE, Miss. — Pearl River Community College's athletics department is expanding into a new frontier. The Wildcats are adding eSports, targeting Fall 2025 for its official launch. 

What are eSports?  eSports are organized video game competitions that involve individuals or teams. eSports can be played online or in person. 

"We are always discussing ways we can best serve our community. Our administration has paid attention to the rapid popularity growth of eSports. The sport has never been as popular as it is right now in Mississippi so the timing just seemed right," PRCC Director of Athletics Patrick Ochs said. "The possibilities with eSports are endless. The MHSAA has a robust eSports division that we will look to highlight. eSports has a lot of growth potential here."

Unlike most other collegiate athletics, eSports is co-ed. The Wildcats will compete as a member of the NJCAAe, with competitions throughout the fall and spring semesters. Scholarships will be available.

MEET THE COACH

PRCC has already identified its first coach. Leading the launch of the program will be River Roderick. Roderick is an experienced, nationally-ranked gamer. He's also a Marketing Specialist at the institution, specializing in photography and videography.

"We're ecstatic to have someone of River's caliber ready to lead our new program," Ochs said. "I've known River for several years now and know he'll do a great job building the program the right way.

"He's an incredibly creative and bright person. The future of eSports at The River is bright."

Roderick is a Petal native and proud PRCC graduate. 

"My goal is to bring my love for gaming and creative skills to the eSports program, helping students not only compete but also enjoy the experience and the connections that come with being part of a team," he said. "My main goal is to win, of course, but what truly excites me about this program is the chance to give students who might not otherwise have an opportunity to be part of a team a space to do so.

"There's something special about the camaraderie that comes from living and competing together, especially on a campus where those connections can last a lifetime. I believe eSports can foster a sense of belonging and teamwork that extends far beyond just the game, and I want to help create that experience for students."

Why should a high schooler choose to join PRCC's eSports program?

"We will offer a unique opportunity to be part of a growing, supportive community," Roderick said. "You're not just competing; you're building lasting relationships, gaining real-world skills in teamwork, leadership and strategy, and getting the chance to represent the college on a competitive level.

"The program is designed to help students thrive both in and out of the game, and with a strong focus on student-athlete well-being and development, PRCC provides an environment where you can grow academically, socially and as an eSports competitor."

WHAT GAMES?

Roderick is looking to launch the program with teams in the following titles:

• Rocket League

• Fortnite

• Valorant

• Super Smash Bros.

• NBA 2K

• Madden NFL

Students who are interested in being part of PRCC's inaugural eSports team should email Roderick at rroderick@prcc.edu.

For the latest on Pearl River Community College athletics, follow us on X (@PRCCAthletics) and Facebook (PRCCAthletics).