UWTSD hosts EGaming School Competition
13.06.2022
The University of Wales Trinity Saint David’s (UWTSD) Esports society hosted its first EGaming School Competition at the University’s Waterfront Innovation Quarter on May 25.
Esports (or electronic sports) is a term used to describe competitive video gaming where teams play each other on consoles. Matches can be viewed or played by spectators at a live physical event or over the internet via streaming platforms which broadcast the games in real time.
Eight teams of 3 students from Cefn Saeson school in Neath competed against each other on Rocket League during the event hosted in the Applied Computing Department by lecturer Richard Morgan with help from UWTSD Civic Engagement Officer, Gareth Thomas (INSPIRE) and Rhodri Noakes (Widening Access).
The event was organised in the same way as a standard esports competition with teams playing head-to-head on multiple screens, and larger screens and hangout areas for the spectators, just like traditional sports.
A professional caster from Esports Wales joined the teams to provide commentary on the semi-finals and final games. First prize was awarded to team JEM who beat Team Tamping Toots in a close-run game that was watched excitedly by all.
Layla Bowen, a teacher at Cefn Saeson School said: “We are all so thankful for the hard work UWTSD has put into this event. It has been such fun and a massive success. Let’s hope more schools join us next year for a bigger competition.”
Gareth Thomas, Civic Engagement Officer was keen to stress that the competition was a joint effort.
He said: “We could not have done this without efforts of Computing lecturer Richard Morgan and the University’s E-gaming society who worked above and beyond to get this off the ground; or the funding and support that came from the University’s Widening Access team. This is a great example of what can be achieved when people from across the University come together to support a good cause.”
Neve Evans, UWTSD Esports Society Student and marketing manager with Esports Wales, said: “The Esports tournament was fantastic, and everyone had great fun. It showed what Esports is and brought together so many people to have fun and to build connections for future events.”
Sam Bowen, UWTSD’s Widening Access Manager added: " It was amazing to see all pupils engage so well with lecturers and students, but particularly exciting to see female pupils go away interested as Esports provides opportunities that fall under the umbrella of STEM.”
The competition continues throughout June with 4 more local schools taking part.
Further Information
Rebecca Davies
Swyddog Gweithredol Cysylltiadau â’r Wasg a’r Cyfryngau
Executive Press and Media Relations Officer
Cyfathrebu Corfforaethol a Chysylltiadau Cyhoeddus
Corporate Communications and PR
Mobile: 07384 467071
Email: Rebecca.Davies@uwtsd.ac.uk
