To the Administrators, Faculty, and Governing Bodies of Colleges and Universities Across North America,

We, the undersigned, urgently call upon your institutions to recognize and elevate the status of recreational gaming, casual gaming, and competitive esports to be on par with traditional sports and recreational activities on your campus. The time has come to treat gaming with the same seriousness, funding, and infrastructure as other athletic and leisure programs, for the following undeniable reasons:

The Foundation of Grassroots Gaming: Recreational and casual gaming form the bedrock of the gaming community, where engagement, creativity, and community building begin. These activities are not just about competition but about fostering a vibrant, inclusive culture where everyone, regardless of skill level, can participate. This grassroots level is crucial for nurturing the next generation of gamers, developers, and esports professionals. By supporting these activities, universities can ensure that gaming remains a welcoming space for all students.

Recognition of Excellence in Esports: The recent Scholastic Esports Awards at The Ohio State University stand as a testament to the burgeoning field of esports within academic settings. These awards not only celebrate competitive achievements but also acknowledge the academic and strategic skills that are integral to success in gaming. By providing the same level of support as traditional sports, universities can foster an environment where this talent is not only recognized but nurtured in a formalized, structured manner.

Impact on Student Wellness: The narrative around video games has shifted dramatically. Gaming, when approached responsibly, can significantly contribute to student wellness. It provides a community for those who might not find their place in conventional sports, promoting social interaction, teamwork, and stress relief. Studies have shown gaming's positive effects on cognitive functions, such as problem-solving, decision-making, and multitasking, which are essential skills in today's digital world. By endorsing and supporting all forms of gaming activities, institutions can play a pivotal role in enhancing the mental health and academic performance of students, mirroring the benefits often attributed to physical sports.

High School Gaming Demand: As high school gaming and esports programs continue to expand, there is an urgent need for colleges to match this enthusiasm and infrastructure. High school students involved in gaming and esports are entering higher education with expectations of continuity in their passion. Without adequate facilities, programs, and recognition, we risk losing this talent to institutions that better cater to these interests or to those who might not pursue higher education at all. The transition from high school to college should be seamless, with opportunities for growth, not stagnation.

Everyone belongs: One of the most significant aspects of gaming and esports is their potential to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion. Unlike many traditional sports, gaming does not have the same physical entry barriers, allowing a broader range of participants with diverse backgrounds, abilities, and identities. 

• Diversity: Gaming communities naturally pull in a broad spectrum of students, offering a platform where racial, gender, and socioeconomic diversity is not just welcomed but celebrated. Esports teams can be a microcosm of diversity, showcasing how different perspectives can lead to success.
• Equity: By providing equal access to resources, and opportunities in gaming and esports, universities can level the playing field. This means ensuring that all students, regardless of their background, have the chance to engage with and excel in gaming, from casual play to competitive levels.
• Inclusion: Gaming events, clubs, and programs can foster an inclusive environment where everyone feels they belong. This includes creating safe spaces for underrepresented groups, organizing events that cater to different interests within gaming, and ensuring that the voices of all gamers are heard in the community and in leadership roles.

Career and Life Opportunities Post-Graduation: The professional landscape for gamers and those involved in the esports ecosystem is vast and growing. From game development and design, to esports management, broadcasting, and analytics, the opportunities are diverse. Institutions that support esports are directly contributing to preparing students for lucrative careers in a billion-dollar industry. This goes beyond playing games; it includes roles in marketing, event coordination, tech support, and more, offering pathways to employment that are both innovative and relevant.

We therefore petition for:

• Equal allocation of resources: Including funding for both competitive and recreational gaming facilities, equipment, and scholarships.
• Dedicated gaming spaces: For both competitive teams and casual gamers, similar to sports centers, there should be arenas, lounges, or facilities where students can practice, compete, or simply enjoy gaming.
• Academic integration: Courses or programs that recognize the academic merit of gaming, from game theory to esports management, including the cultural and historical aspects of gaming.
• Health and wellness programs: Tailored to address the unique needs of gamers, ensuring their physical and mental health are prioritized.

It's time to acknowledge that the future of sports and recreation is not only on the field but also behind the screen. By endorsing gaming and esports with the same vigor as traditional sports, colleges and universities can lead in preparing students for a world where digital and physical realms are increasingly intertwined, meeting the demands of both current and incoming students.

Please join us in this forward-thinking movement to empower our student community through gaming and esports.

Sincerely,