KINGSVILLE (August 25, 2026) — Javelina Athletics announced the addition of Esports as Texas A&M University-Kingsville's newest varsity sports program on Wednesday.
Esports is organized, competitive video gaming, typically involving multiplayer games played individually or as part of a team. A collegiate esports program responds to the interests and needs of today's students while providing undergraduate and graduate students with an engaging opportunity to participate in one of the fastest-growing areas of competitive entertainment. Through esports, students develop valuable skills and qualities including discipline, teamwork, communication and sportsmanship while working collaboratively to strengthen critical, analytical, strategic and problem-solving skills.
"We have listened to our students who have expressed strong interest in pursuing Esports at the varsity level. There is no doubt that the skills needed to compete in Esports are closely aligned with the skills needed for success both in the classroom and in the workforce. Through strong communication skills, collaborative teamwork, leadership, and strategic thinking, Esports will provide our students with opportunities to further develop their skills through structured engagement and competition," said Texas A&M University-Kingsville President Dr. Robert Vela.
The new Esports program will be housed under Rec Sports, under the direction of Rec Sports Director Marcus Wirth and will be overseen by Executive Director of Athletics Michael Salinas. Javelina Athletics will announce the first Esports head coach at the conclusion of a national search.
"We have been working diligently to bring Esports to Texas A&M University-Kingsville, and we're excited to see that vision come to life," said Salinas. "Esports has become a major part of the collegiate sports landscape, and this program will create new opportunities for students to compete, develop valuable skills and proudly represent the Javelinas on a regional and national stage."
Javelina Esports will begin competition in the National Association of Collegiate Esports (NACE) in Spring 2027. The program will compete across a variety of competitive titles, providing students with opportunities to compete at the collegiate level while establishing Javelina Esports as a leading esports program in the South Texas region.
"Recreational Sports is excited about the opportunity to add Esports as a Varsity program to our offerings," said Wirth. "The addition of the Varsity Esports program separates us from other institutions in South Texas and provides a unique opportunity to bring in tremendous students from our backyard to Texas A&M University-Kingsville. I want to thank President Dr. Robert Vela and Executive Director of Athletics Michael Salinas in their support and making the investment in a Varsity Esports program here at Texas A&M University-Kingsville. Our aim is to develop a highly competitive Esports program that proudly represent Javelina Nation."
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