Christopher Cummins (he/him) is the director of instructional technology and esports coach at Southeast Community College (SCC). Cummins has been at SCC for the last 15 years and has been involved in esports for the last four, which is arguably a good amount of time in the esports world with how it has been rapidly evolving! 

Cummins said the college initially started esports as a club, competing in its first year against schools nationwide. He was asked to become the coach when esports transitioned to a varsity sport two years ago. 

“We've provided a space that students utilize beyond just competitive gaming. They come into the room and use the lounge to study. They eat together. They started a Dungeons & Dragons club with esports members. I enjoy seeing the camaraderie being built. I love to hear the ideas for improvement from our students, giving them a voice in the direction of the program. We continue to work on our Internet and OS Image for an optimal esports PC and console experience,” Cummins said. “We've also learned a lot in the short time we've been in the NJCAAE. I think the level of play is exemplary. I find the other coaches quite helpful and plan to pass that along by example.”

Right now the SCC esports team consists of 75 students playing at all different levels. Cummins is excited to see esports become a varsity sport at SCC. He believes it offers a great opportunity to provide scholarships to student-athletes and raises the visibility of the institution. But more than that, he’s excited to watch students grow—not just as gamers, but as people. Building a sense of community and boosting leadership skills are big priorities for him, and he hopes those lessons stick with students long after they graduate.

When asked about participation numbers on campus, Cummins shared that while the program has only been active for four years, he has seen significant growth. The program’s 75 students are spread out on intramural and varsity teams, playing more than ten varsity titles and 12 intramural titles. The club’s size fluctuates around 100 part-time and full-time students.

Cummins explained that the team is having an excellent year so far. They compete multiple times a week, usually in several titles in a single night. The team is looking to add more titles in the spring and continues to focus on team improvement. 

“We prepare for NJCAAE championships by watching opponents VODs from the season. We break down footage of what they do well, and what they don't. With team games, I work with the captain and plan out the schedule for availability.

Single-player games will also use spreadsheets for statistical information gathering. Also, reminding students to take care of themselves. Eat right, exercising, and getting enough sleep will help improve gameplay,” said Cummins, “I see [the students] all grow and become better versions of themselves. I love to see the excitement and the commitment to something brand new to the college. The students are very inspiring for the effort that they give.”

Cummins is really excited about the opportunity to build the program from the ground up. He hopes that one day, the team will be able to bring home a National Championship. It seems with the evergrowing team and strategy that they currently have in place, they are well on their way.