The Rapid Rise of Kean eSports

By: David Macaulay-Smith I Published: February 25, 2025

Kean University’s eSports program is rapidly gaining momentum, establishing itself as a rising contender in the competitive collegiate gaming scene.

Despite being a relatively new addition to the university, Kean eSports has already made significant strides. During its short history, the program has built a committed roster, faced off against elite universities, and attracted increasing attention both within the university and the broader community. 

Under the guidance of Head Coach Joseph Sarnoski, the team is focused not only on mastering their games but also on shaping the program into a prominent force in the expanding world of eSports. Looking ahead, Kean eSports aims to grow its influence, attract top-tier talent, and ultimately capture a national championship title.

“eSports is still new to many people,” Coach Sarnoski said. He recognizes that while the program has been active for about four years, its full scope remains unfamiliar to many. 

Since its inception, the program has rapidly grown, with teams competing in a variety of games. Titles like Rocket League, NBA 2K, and Madden attract both casual and competitive players, while games like Overwatch and Rainbow Six bring more complex challenges with their dynamic and constantly changing gameplay. 

Coach Sarnoski highlights that each game offers a unique metagame, adding layers of excitement and strategy to the competitions.

 “Rocket League is essentially car soccer, so it’s all about scoring goals,” Sarnoski explains. 

“But with games like Overwatch and Rainbow Six, it’s about achieving strategic objectives, like capturing flags or reaching specific mission goals,” Sarnoski said. 

The program’s rapid growth has also transformed its recruitment efforts. 

“In the past, we’ve done a lot of direct recruitment, but now that we’re gaining more recognition, we collaborate with high schools to help steer students our way,”  Sarnoski added. 

This partnership with local schools, combined with tryouts held each semester, ensures that Kean eSports can secure top-tier talent. 

“We typically need about 50 students each semester because we have so many team-based games,” Sarnoski explains. 

As the program continues to gain momentum, the competition for spots will only intensify, especially with the eSports team growing to 51 members this year.

Despite its success, the team faces its share of challenges. As a newer sport at Kean, raising awareness has been a major hurdle. 

“Not everyone knows that we have an arena, or that we’re competing at such a high level,”  Sarnoski said. 

However, the program is steadily overcoming these challenges.

 “We’re gaining more recognition, and the exposure is definitely growing.” Sarnoski also said. 

A key part of this growth is adapting to the constantly evolving nature of esports. 

“Unlike traditional sports, the games we play are frequently updated, so we’re always adjusting and evolving to keep up,” Sarnoski explains. 

 He emphasizes the unique challenge of staying ahead in such a fast-paced industry.

For Sarnoski, the team’s goals are twofold: winning and growing the program. 

“We want to win, but we also want to make sure the program continues to grow and get the recognition it deserves,”. Sarnoski said. 

Achieving these goals is greatly influenced by the team’s consistent performance in their weekly matches. 

“Every week, our athletes compete against other universities, and at the end of the season, the top 32 teams make the playoffs.” He explains. 

To ensure continuous improvement, Sarnoski highlights the importance of the team’s structured practice schedule, which includes dedicated game days, review sessions, and team discussions.

Jake Castro, a junior NBA 2K player, has found a strong sense of community since joining the program. 

“I was a competitive player before college but never played for a team,” Castro said. 

 Castro brings a wealth of experience and success to the team, having earned several impressive accolades during his time at UCC, including being a Regional Runner-up for the NBA 2K Regional Championship, National Third Place for Overwatch 2, a two-time National Runner-up for NBA 2K, and a National Champion for Overwatch 2. 

“When I joined Kean, I made a lot of new friends, especially since I transferred from UCNJ,” Castro said. 

“My goal is to make it to the playoffs and try to win the school a national championship,” he shares.

With his extensive competitive background, Castro is eager to contribute to Kean’s success this season. 

Castro’s path to Kean eSports was slightly unconventional, as he reached out to the program after a late registration process. 

“There’s no portal for players to see all of the available spots,” Castro  explained “You have to reach out to the school you’re interested in, and that’s how I ended up here.” Castro’s experience highlights the personal drive and initiative required of aspiring esports players, especially as programs like Kean’s gain popularity and recognition.

For Castro, preparation for big matches is just as much about mental strength as it is about gameplay. 

“When it comes to pressure, you just have to deal with it,” he says. “But we create a game plan before each match, so everyone knows what they need to do.” He also credits his teammates for helping him stay calm and composed during intense moments.

 “We try to build each other up if we’re struggling. We’re all trying to stay focused and support one another.” Castro said. 

While Kean esports doesn’t currently travel for games and tournaments, fans and students are encouraged to attend matches at the on-campus Esports arena. 

“We have a Twitch channel and broadcast every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday,” says Sarnoski. 

These streams give fans, students, and prospective players a chance to watch the team in action and engage with the program in real time.

“We want people to get involved and cheer us on as we continue to grow.” 

As the team’s visibility continues to rise, so too will the support from the campus community.

Looking forward, Kean eSports has its eyes set on even greater achievements. With a combination of fierce dedication, growing recognition, and talented players like Castro, the program is poised to continue making its mark on the competitive Esports world. 

“We want to become a bigger part of Kean University,” Sarnoski concludes. 

With a growing roster and a strong start to the season, the team is not only focused on competition but also on building a presence within the campus community.

“Our ultimate goal is to win, but we also want to make sure that people know we’re here and that we’re playing games at the highest level.”

As the season unfolds, the unwavering passion and determination of both the players and coaches will undoubtedly propel Kean eSports toward its ultimate goal: a national championship. 

With a solid foundation, an ever-growing fanbase, and a commitment to excellence, Kean eSports is positioned to not only compete at the highest levels but also redefine what collegiate gaming can achieve. The team’s success, both on and off the screen, will continue to demonstrate that eSports is more than just a game—it’s a dynamic and strategic sport worthy of recognition and respect.