Insights from the “Level Up Esports for Campus Rec: Spaces, Access, and ROI” webinar

On October 16, 2025, campus recreation professionals came together to explore how intentional design in esports spaces can elevate student engagement, wellbeing, and belonging.  Sponsored by NIRSA Associate Member RecRe, the webinar Level Up Esports for Campus Rec: Spaces, Access, and ROI offered practical insights for creating esports spaces that are both functional and student-centered, while maximizing return on investment.

Designing esports spaces that last

A key takeaway from the webinar: successful esports spaces aren’t just about flashy tech or big monitors; the lasting impact comes from intentional details. Griffin Harrington, RecRe Co-Founder and CEO and Jason Levy, Account Manager for RecRe highlighted design considerations that extend beyond the screen, such as circulation patterns around gaming stations, flexible seating for tournaments and casual play, durable surfaces for high-use equipment, and thoughtfully integrated technology in group play and competition areas. One slide summed it up simply: “Greatness is in the details.”

Small choices now, like optimizing traffic flow or planning for scalable tech, make esports spaces more adaptable and sustainable over time.

Accessibility and inclusion for all players

Consistent with the values of campus recreation, accessibility and inclusion were central to the conversation. In esports, this means ensuring all students, regardless of ability, can participate, spectate, and engage. Griffin and Jason shared examples of inclusive esports setups, such as adjustable stations for different mobility needs and spaces designed for collaborative play. Research cited during the session reinforced that inclusive design leads to better student engagement, stronger mental wellbeing, and a deeper sense of belonging.

Data, collaboration, and ROI

Data can drive smarter esports planning. Metrics related to usage, feedback from players, and space-usage studies can help campus rec professionals make informed decisions about equipment purchases, programming, and layout. The session also emphasized the value of partnerships with student affairs, residence life, academic units, and vendors, when it comes to aligning esports investments with broader campus strategies. Partnerships can be critical in helping to ensure resources support real student needs while demonstrating clear ROI for administrators.

Actionable steps for campus rec teams

Here are four steps you can take now to level up your esports spaces:

1. Audit your esports area. Document current setups, traffic patterns, and user experience in gaming lounges or competitive spaces.
2. Review accessibility standards. Engage students with disabilities, consider ergonomic setups, and explore ways to make esports social and playful for everyone.
3. Build campus partnerships. Work with student unions, wellness, and facility planning teams to integrate esports into broader campus recreation strategies.
4. Leverage your data. Collect metrics on station usage, student satisfaction, and equipment turnover to make a data-driven case for investment and show how esports support engagement, retention, and wellbeing.

Keep the conversation going

If you missed the live session, a recording of the webinar is available free for anyone with NIRSA credentials.

Watch it, share key takeaways with your team, and start exploring how intentional design, accessibility, and data can shape the future of esports in campus recreation.