Delta State University launches competitive esports program; recruiting now for Spring 2027 season
Cleveland, MS (09/15/2026) — Contact: Nathan Duff FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Phone: (662) 846-4678
Email: nduff@deltastate.edu
Delta State University launches competitive esports program; recruiting now for Spring 2027 season
CLEVELAND, Miss. - Delta State University has officially launched its new competitive Esports program and is now recruiting students for its inaugural Spring 2027 season.
The new program expands opportunities for students while reflecting the university's continued commitment to innovation, student engagement and competitive excellence.
Delta State will initially field teams in Super Smash Bros. and Madden, with plans to build a nationally competitive esports program focused on teamwork, leadership, discipline and sustained success.
Leading the program as its founding coach is Kyle Partridge, assistant director of Collegiate Recreation & Wellness, who will oversee the development and growth of Delta State Esports.
"This is more than just starting a team - this is about building a championship-caliber culture from day one," said Partridge. "We are looking for highly competitive student-athletes who want to be part of something special and help build a legacy that will be remembered for years to come."
The program will emphasize both competitive success and academic achievement. Student-athletes will be expected to maintain academic eligibility while meeting the performance and conduct standards established for the team. The Okragon, located on the third floor of the H.L. Nowell Union, will serve as the program's practice and competition facility.
"This will be a competitive program in every sense of the word," Partridge added. "We are going to demand excellence, accountability, and commitment from our players. Our goal is to build a nationally respected program that competes for championships every single year."
Partridge credited university leadership for making the new program possible.
"I want to sincerely thank President Ennis and Vice President Lovin for believing in this vision and giving me the opportunity to build this program," said Partridge. "Their support means everything as we begin this journey. I am beyond excited to serve as the founding coach of this future national championship-caliber program, and I cannot wait to bring home a couple of national championships and put Delta State University on the map in collegiate esports."
Students interested in joining Delta State Esports for the Spring 2027 season or learning more about recruitment opportunities should contact Coach Kyle Partridge, assistant director of Recreation and Wellness, at KPartridge@deltastate.edu.
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About Delta State University: Delta State University is a four-year public institution whose nearly 2,800 students come from most U.S. states and more than 45 countries. Acknowledging its beginning as a teacher's college, the University sustains excellence in teacher education while continuing to expand offerings in traditional as well as unique fields of study. Programs such as those available through the Delta Music Institute, the Commercial Aviation Department, and the Center for Interdisciplinary Geospatial Information highlight the University's commitment to meeting the evolving needs of the students it serves with world-leading, industry-acclaimed programs. Situated in the heart of the Mississippi Delta, Delta State offers top-notch academic programs in business, arts, sciences, nursing, education, and more. DSU Athletics has won 15 national championships, 70 conference championships, and 37 regional titles.
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