NIU Esports Club Opens Tryouts for Competitive Teams in 2026

Huskie Gaming Club, Northern Illinois University (NIU)’s esports club, has officially opened registration for new members of its competitive teams in early 2026. The selection process, held every semester, aims to recruit students to represent the university in the National Esports Collegiate Conference (NECC), one of the top collegiate leagues in the United States. Spots are available for six popular games: League of Legends, Valorant, Rainbow Six Siege, Rocket League, Overwatch and Counter-Strike 2. Unlike the official varsity team, the club is open to all undergraduate students, including those studying online or living off campus, with the main goal of creating a welcoming environment for both beginners and experienced players.

Interested students have until this Friday, January 30, 2026, to sign up. Taking part in competitions requires a symbolic registration fee of US$25 (about R$125 at the current exchange rate), but according to the organizers, the club is willing to find alternatives for students who cannot afford the initial cost. Team practices vary by game, with most meeting at least once a week, preferably at the NIU Esports Arena, located in Altgeld Hall. This initiative is not just about competition, but also about developing interpersonal skills and building a lasting community among students.

More than just playing

According to Eli Curry, NIU’s Interim Director of Esports, the club avoids skill-based selection at the student level. “Everyone who wants to participate deserves a chance,” Curry said. He notes that esports offer a valuable opportunity to learn from failure in a safe environment. “Students learn what it is like not to succeed right away and understand there is a way to get past it, pick themselves back up and try again,” he explained. This philosophy is reflected in how the club is run, which strives to be inclusive and accessible.

Colleen Larsen, senior president of the Huskie Gaming Club, reinforces the community aspect of the initiative. “I encourage my players to play from the arena whenever possible. It helps build team spirit. It is a fun experience to play with all your friends in person,” Larsen said. She is herself an example of the bonds formed: she made lifelong friends in the club and now shares an apartment with one of them. For the organizers, the value of the experience goes far beyond matches, preparing students for future challenges with teamwork, communication and resilience.