Chippewa Valley Times

The esports program at UW-Stout experienced a notable year in 2023-24, securing a state championship and qualifying for two national tournaments. With a record roster of nearly 50 players this fall, some nationally ranked, the Blue Devils are looking forward to a significant development: a new $1 million arena set to open in fall 2025.

The UW-Stout Foundation and Alumni Association is donating the funds to create the arena on the first floor of the University Library. The project will involve renovating an existing lab space and outfitting it with advanced technology to serve as the new home for Blue Devil esports.

“The UW-Stout Foundation Board is delighted to further the athletic and academic innovation and achievement of our student athletes with a new, state-of-the-art esports arena. As we say at Stout, this is a very ‘Stout Proud’ moment for our board,” said Linda Funk, president of the Foundation Board of Directors.

Construction is expected to begin in March and be completed before the start of the 2025 fall semester. “UW-Stout's continued leadership in esports is impressive — forming the first varsity team among the Universities of Wisconsin; launching the first associated academic program, a minor in esports coaching, in the state; and winning a collegiate championship,” Funk added.

Currently, the coed esports team competes from a retrofitted classroom in Heritage Hall, which only accommodates 12 computer stations. Many team members must practice and compete from their residence halls or apartments due to space limitations.

“The current space is not viable for the future,” said Coach Aaron Froelich. “The university is really invested in esports, and with this Foundation gift we’re headed in the right direction.” The new arena’s central campus location aims to enhance accessibility and visibility for esports on campus.

Heritage Hall will undergo a $139 million renovation starting spring 2025. “It’s good timing to find a new home for the esports team,” said Justin Utpadel, senior facilities officer. He expressed gratitude for partnering with the UW-Stout Foundation on this project that supports both athletics and academics.

The site plan aligns with UW-Stout’s long-term vision to make the library a central hub on campus. The new space could also serve as an applied learning lab for students enrolled in programs such as esports coaching minor and game design.

“It’s definitely going to be an esports arena, but there’s an opportunity to have academic instruction there too,” Utpadel said.

The room will feature approximately 2,000 square feet near the library lobby. It will be redesigned with branding, special effects lighting, spectator areas, windows, and production rooms for broadcasting matches online. About 75% of the budget will go towards renovation while 25% will be allocated for new equipment including computers, monitors, broadcast technology, tables, and chairs designed specifically for esports.

Space will be available for up to 34 computer stations—nearly triple that of their current setup—along with overhead TV screens. This expansion will enable UW-Stout to host matches and regional events.

“A state-of-the-art broadcasting system will be the best in Wisconsin and one of the best in the nation,” Froelich stated. “This will be the future for Stout esports for many years. We can continue to grow into this space.”

Winning last spring's Wisconsin Valorant Summit LAN championship against UW-Madison has positioned UW-Stout well as they transition into the new Wisconsin Esports Conference featuring teams from various universities and colleges across Wisconsin. Froelich helped found this conference and serves as its co-director.

Additionally, UW-Stout is part of NACE (National Association of Collegiate Esports). The Blue Devils field four varsity teams—Overwatch, Valorant, Rocket League, Super Smash Bros.—competing both fall and spring semesters alongside three Academy or junior varsity teams.