Esports Revolution: How San Antonio is Becoming a Gaming Hub

A college student from San Antonio, Esmy Infante, has emerged as a prominent figure in the world of esports. Initially not an avid gamer, Infante's journey into competitive gaming began after attending a university-hosted gaming event. This led to their enrollment at Texas A&M-San Antonio (TAMUSA), where they became captivated by esports and eventually rose to become a team captain for TAMUSA’s Overwatch squad. Ranked among the top 1% of Overwatch players nationwide, Infante also received one of five Student Leadership Awards from the National Association of Collegiate Esports in 2024. Their achievements highlight how esports are transforming education and career opportunities for students.

The rise of esports has been remarkable, with competitions drawing large audiences both online and offline. Events such as the inaugural A&M System Showdown, held at the Boeing Center, exemplify this growth. At the showdown, teams representing various Texas A&M campuses competed in games like Overwatch, Mario Super Smash Bros, League of Legends, and even online chess. TAMUSA excelled, securing first place overall out of six competing campuses. Behind this success lies the strategic collaboration between TAMUSA and Tech Port, which positions San Antonio as a burgeoning hub for esports in Texas.

Aaron Jaggers, head esports coach and assistant director of recreation at TAMUSA, emphasized that five years ago, his role did not exist. The rapid expansion of esports programs in high schools, colleges, and universities underscores its growing importance. TAMUSA, being a newer campus geographically close to Tech Port, boasts arguably the strongest esports program within the A&M system. With about a quarter of the 70 competitors at the A&M System Showdown hailing from TAMUSA, it demonstrates their influence in nurturing talent.

Will Garrett, vice president of talent and technology development and integration at Port San Antonio, highlighted the investment exceeding $70 million into the Tech Port Center and Arena over the past five years. This initiative aims to channel students' passion for gaming into academic and industry career pathways. Unlike other cities focusing solely on live streaming events, San Antonio prioritizes engagement through its infrastructure and partnerships, including the R20 High School Esports League, which serves 400 students across 35 local schools.

Beyond gaming, esports fosters life skills such as communication and leadership, making it an attractive alternative for students uninterested in traditional school activities. Ansley Partosa, head of the Greater Gaming Society of San Antonio, noted that scholarships in esports have doubled nationwide, offering new opportunities for students. While full-ride scholarships remain rare, smaller awards ranging from $500 to $10,000 provide financial support. TAMUSA currently offers limited scholarships but anticipates growth as their program expands.

Sebastian De Hoyos, esports coach at Northwest Vista College and a TAMUSA graduate, observed that local campuses are exploring ways to integrate esports into their offerings. Many view TAMUSA as a model for success, aligning with prestigious programs at Syracuse University and the University of Texas at Dallas. Aaron Jaggers attributes the rapid rise of collegiate esports to increased accessibility, enabling more students to engage with gaming on various platforms.

The transformation of esports into a viable career path signifies a significant shift in education and industry dynamics. As San Antonio continues to invest in its infrastructure and partnerships, it solidifies its position as a leader in this rapidly evolving field. Through initiatives like the A&M System Showdown and collaborations with Tech Port, the city is paving the way for future generations of gamers to excel academically and professionally.