Florida Polytechnic University unveiled a new esports arena on February 13, 2026, located in the Barnett Applied Research Center.
The facility includes 20 high-performance gaming PCs for competitive play, two large TVs for console gaming, and a 48-foot exterior screen on the building wall to display live tournament gameplay.
Florida Poly fields 14 varsity esports teams with over 100 students in the National Esports Collegiate Conference (NECC), competing in games such as Marvel Rivals, Overwatch, Valorant, and Super Smash Bros. Ultimate.
The arena is open to all students during the day for play, study, or socializing. Evenings are reserved for varsity team practice and competitions against universities nationwide.
University President Dr. Devin Stephenson described the arena as part of a modern university experience that supports student interests, community building, and skill development in the growing esports industry.
Vice President and CIO Cole Allen emphasized the facility’s design for elite-level competition rather than a basic setup.
Director of Athletics and Recreation Derek Lower noted that it provides students grassroots entry into the esports industry, with nightly use for national matches.
Past achievements include the 2023 NECC Challengers Division South Atlantic Conference title in Valorant and Christian Lomenzo’s 2019 EA Madden NFL 19 Challenge national championship win with a $35,000 prize.
Esports student leaders Noah Vanscoyoc (senior, business analytics) and Jannice Rivera (junior, computer science) stated the new space will boost participation, visibility, and development of teamwork and communication skills applicable to future careers. The program remains open to all students, including those interested in casual play.
SOURCE: POLYTECHNIC UNIVERSITY
