Joe Mazzara

Wichita State’s College of Applied Studies is proud to announce Joe Mazzara as the new WSU director of Esports. Mazzara, who holds a Master’s of Education in sport management and a Bachelor of Applied Arts in media arts from WSU, has been integral to the growth of the esports program since 2019, serving as assistant director and stepping into the role of interim director in February 2024.

Reflecting on his appointment, Mazzara shared, “Becoming the director of Esports at WSU is something I’ve been working towards since 2017. I couldn’t be more grateful to the students and staff in our program for their trust and guidance over the years. I know we will all push WSU Esports into the future through our collaboration as a cohesive unit and community.”

Under Mazzara’s leadership, WSU Esports aims to excel in applied learning and competitive gaming, aspiring to be a leading Division 1 university for esports in the Midwest.

Exciting upcoming events include the second Kansas K.O. in June and the inaugural D-Air Capital Smash Melee & Ultimate Regional in August, hosted by WSU Esports.

The Shocker Esports Valorant team poses after winning the ECAC National Championship

Wichita State University Esports clinched victory in the ECAC National Championship for Valorant, capping off a successful fall 2023 season. Key players Truman Nguyen, Tyson Nguyen, McKaleb Unruh, Caleb Allen, and Kevin Nguyen showcased exceptional skill and teamwork. This marks WSU’s second consecutive ECAC championship and affirms its dedication in a challenging season.

WSU teams also performed strongly in various other esports titles, securing notable rankings. Looking ahead, the team is gearing up for the NACE Starleague conference in late January, hosted by the National Association of Collegiate Esports. Travis Yang, Wichita State esports director, emphasized the team’s resilience and anticipates continued success in the dynamic world of collegiate esports.