Meet Will “Riolu” Strayer, a freshman mechanical engineering major from Perrysburg, Ohio, who has made a significant impact on the Super Smash Bros. team. After starting the season as a substitute, Will stepped up to the main roster mid-semester. Playing as his main character, Min Min, he has been credited with making "incredible plays" for the team. When he's not competing, Will enjoys making art and solving cryptography puzzles.

Meet Connor “Kamino” Maluk, a junior social studies education major and standout Controller for CSU's Varsity Valorant team. He recently electrified the Ohio Collegiate Esports Conference (OCEC) by securing a pivotal team ace during tournament play. A recognized leader, Connor has previously led a team to a NACE conference championship and earned the prestigious "Valhalla Bound" award, which is voted on by his peers for his positive impact on the CSU gaming community.

CSU's Rocket League team placed 2nd and its Valorant team placed Top 4 at the first-ever Ohio Collegiate Esports Classic in Columbus.

CSU's esports arena recently received significant upgrades to enhance the space for its growing community. Key additions include a new, dedicated station for Super Smash Bros., a fully revamped production space, and new cubbies and cabinets for organized equipment storage. The lab also features new monitor arms and additional TVs. These improvements streamline the player experience, which now includes a simple sign-in and peripheral check-out system. The upgrades were a community effort, and the enhanced space is now open for all players.

Dr. Hongkai Yu, an associate professor in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering (ECE) will join researchers from the University of Kentucky to apply computer vision and artificial

On September 23rd, computer science students from Lake High School visited Cleveland State University for a special tour of the Washkewicz School of Engineering and the CSU esports lab. The students received a presentation and heard directly from program leaders and varsity players, including Club Director PJ Farrell. The visit showcased the powerful connection between STEM education and the collegiate esports world, highlighting potential academic and competitive pathways for prospective students.

Meet Christian Davis, the Director of Broadcast Production and the backbone of CSU Esports' streaming operations. Working closely with students, he ensures every broadcast is professional and smooth. Christian brings a unique and vital skill set to the role, drawing from his professional background as a licensed low-voltage electrical inspector and certified electrician. His technical expertise and dedicated mentorship have been instrumental in elevating the quality of the program's productions to the high standard seen today.

Meet Marissa “umi” O’Connor, a freshman from Painesville, Ohio, who is already making an impact on the CSU esports program. A studio art major and smokes player for the Valorant Academy team, she blends artistic creativity with in-game strategy. Beyond her gameplay, Marissa demonstrates remarkable leadership by coaching gymnastics and starting a grassroots organization to send her team to a national tournament in Las Vegas. Her initiative and talent make her a standout new member of the university community.

Cleveland State Esports welcomes Gavin “crossnclover” Miller to the program. He will compete in Valorant as an Initiator and also represent CSU in Overwatch during the 2025 season.

Cleveland State Esports welcomed over 100 competitors to Midgard Mayhem #9, hosted in the Esports Lab at the Washkewicz College of Engineering.