MSU’s Esports Club Association brings gamers together at MSU

When most students think of campus clubs, esports might not immediately come to mind. But at Michigan State University, the Esports Club Association (ECA) is redefining what it means to be part of a student organization by building both casual and competitive gaming communities and connecting students across campus.

Sophomore Zach Feger, director of public relations for the ECA, described the organization as more than just an umbrella for competitive gaming.

“Contrary to the name, we mainly focus on casual gaming here at Michigan State,” Feger said. “We oversee the leadership of about 19 different gaming clubs, each focusing on a separate game or genre. There’s something for everyone—from fighting games and Smash Bros. to Mario Kart, Minecraft, League of Legends, Halo, and even Valorant.” 

Feger emphasized that while competitive gamers have their space, the appeal of ECA lies in its casual, inclusive environment.

“There are a lot of students who are competitive, but many are drawn to casual gaming because there’s a large, welcoming community. There’s nothing but friendship and happiness involved—well, unless you lose—but that’s all part of the fun.”

The association’s work culminates in one of the most anticipated events on campus: The LAN. Held this year on March 21, the daylong event transforms the first floor of Commerce Hall into a sprawling hub for gaming. From 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., clubs host tournaments, collaborative events and casual play areas.

“It’s basically a big avenue for students to explore all that ECA has to offer,” Feger said. “For example, Fighting Game Club ran a Mutton Bash Tournament, where players spin a wheel to randomly select a game for a competition. There were also collaborations, like one between Fighting Game Club and League of Legends Club for a new crossover game event. It’s amazing to see all the communities come together—it really is a spectacle.”

The LAN also welcomes students who aren’t deeply involved in gaming. Casual movie nights and smaller on-campus gatherings throughout the semester help newcomers feel included.

“Even if you don’t consider yourself a gamer, ECA events give you the opportunity to find your community, learn about games, and meet people who share your interests,” Feger said.

Organizing these events is no small task. Feger described the coordination required between clubs and MSU departments as a massive logistical effort.

“We have a huge network of club leaders communicating constantly, planning events, and relaying information back to our e-board. For The LAN, we collaborate with departments like the library, which provides its video game collection for our free-play area. Challenges pop up—last semester, we had to move some clubs at the last minute because a space was double-booked—but even then, it all works out.”

Feger also highlighted the growth of gaming culture on campus.

“When I arrived, ECA was the main organization for gaming. Varsity esports came around in 2022, and the university has been pushing gaming initiatives. Casual gaming is evolving, with new clubs emerging every semester. For example, a student recently created a Hightail Club, and another restarted the Rocket League Club. It’s inspiring to see students take initiative, and I think in the next 10 years, we’ll see even more structured communities, possibly with multiple ECAs focused on different genres.”

For students who have never attended The LAN or explored ECA, Feger has a clear message:

“There’s a club for any game you’re interested in, and even if there isn’t, you’ll find people who enjoy it and can start something new. Gaming is so much more joyful when you share it with others, and that’s what ECA is all about. Whether you want to compete, play casually, or just meet people, ECA and The LAN are great ways to get involved and be part of a thriving campus community.”

From tournaments and movie nights to collaborative events and casual gatherings, the Esports Club Association is proving that gaming is more than just a pastime at MSU — it’s a way to connect, grow and have fun with fellow students.