Austin Peay State University is diving into the exciting world of esports. On Saturday, September 6, they will host their first event in the form of a four-versus-four Tekken 8 match against MTSU during CDE Lightband’s F2CON.
The match will be livestreamed on Twitch, and fans can join a watch party at the Morgan University Center. The victorious team will take home a trophy and a prize of $2,500 to support their club.
“I’m really nervous but also excited,” shared Anthony Collier, a sophomore and team member. “Playing online is one thing, but performing in front of an audience is a whole new experience. Keeping calm is vital, especially in a game like Tekken where momentum can shift quickly.”
The team has been training hard. Lakavius Stokes, another sophomore, expressed his eagerness to compete against diverse players in person to learn about various characters and strategies.
Tekken 8 offers nearly 40 characters, each with unique fighting styles. Collier emphasized that knowing how these characters work is key to winning.
“We focus a lot on online matches to get exposure to different characters,” said Ashton Hulsey, a junior and Govs Gaming vice president. “It helps us improve and face better opponents.”
The club’s goal is to establish a recognized esports program at Austin Peay. Meagan Potts, the club advisor, mentioned that they’re also building teams for games like Overwatch and Marvel Rivals. Players of all skill levels are encouraged to join.
To foster community, Janessa Walpole, the club secretary, said they host casual events like “Monday Mayhem,” where members enjoy pizza and games like Mario Kart. “We plan themed events, and it’s a blast,” she added.
Sasha Puskas, the club president, highlighted the social aspects. “Joining helped me connect with others during a lonely time,” she said. “I wanted to meet people who share my interests. It’s been a great way to make friends beyond my usual circles.”
The APSU Esports Gaming Room has become a hub for students. Hulsey noted that it’s a spot for hanging out, playing games, and even studying. Potts pointed out that gaming can build connections where traditional sports might not suit everyone.
The rise of esports reflects changing interests. According to a recent report by Newzoo, the global gaming market is expected to surpass $200 billion by 2023. That growth signifies gaming’s role as a major social and cultural force.
For more information about Govs Gaming, you can contact Meagan Potts at 931-221-6594 or [email protected]. Students interested in joining the club can also check out their Discord server.
