FLORENCE – The University of North Alabama has been chosen to host the Alabama High School Athletic Association Spring 2024 Esports competition. The event is expected to bring high school students and coaches from dozens of Alabama high schools.

“I am confident that the Guillot University Center on the UNA campus will provide a great  experience and opportunity for our athletes to compete and represent their schools and communities in this still emerging sport,” said David Holtsford, coordinator for Digital Media for the AHSAA. “I am excited for the future of esports in Alabama.” 

UNA’s esports program was founded just a few years ago. From around a dozen students  before 2019, the program has grown to more than 120 UNA students participating. The university has hosted local tournaments for area and regional high school esports teams and community members. 

“Our esports program has grown tremendously, and there is so much energy among the group,” said Mark Linder, a faculty advisor and lecturer in Sport and Recreation Management in the College of Education and Human Sciences. “We are thrilled to be able to welcome high school coaches and teams from across Alabama.” 

Linder said UNA is also creating an esports academic program that, pending funding as well as approval from accrediting agencies, will provide a pathway for employment for students in UNA esports. The academic program could launch as early as spring 2025.