Marist University is set to open a new and expanded Esports Lab this spring semester, responding to the growing interest in its esports program. The facility, located in Donnelly Hall next to the current computer lab, will feature approximately 38 high-performance gaming stations, two private competition rooms, streaming capabilities, and collaborative spaces for team activities. There will also be a designated area for games such as Super Smash Bros.
The new Esports Lab is expected to be one of the largest facilities of its kind within the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference (MAAC). The expansion aims to provide Marist’s esports teams with modern resources and support continued success in collegiate competitions.
“I’m excited that this new facility will offer all the latest gaming technologies for our accomplished esports program to compete at the highest level,” said Stephen D’Alessandro, Assistant Athletic Director for Club and Intramural Sports at Marist. “Designing this brand new, and much larger, Esports Lab reflects the University’s commitment to creating spaces and offering resources that help students connect, compete, and build community.”
Interest in collegiate esports has increased nationwide. According to the 2024–25 Collegiate Esports Trends Report from the Esports Trade Association, nearly 700 colleges now have their own esports programs.
Marist’s Esports program has achieved five MAAC titles across several games including Super Smash Bros., Overwatch 2, Valorant, Rocket League, and League of Legends. The Overwatch 2 team recently secured a conference championship and a runner-up finish over two seasons. The Super Smash Bros. team finished as MAAC runner-up last year and previously competed in the Collegiate Esports Commissioners Cup Championship in Texas.
The university’s focus on technology extends beyond esports; its Game Design program has been recognized by The Princeton Review as one of the top programs nationally over the past decade.
“The Marist Esports Club has always been about the people, and the community built through esports has been central to our success, including wins in the MAAC playoffs and the West Point Invitational just last year,” said Aiden Joyner ’28, secretary of the Esports Club. “With a larger facility on the way, it’s exciting to see the recognition the club has earned and to know our best years are still ahead.”
Daniel Brogen ’26, vice president of the club and captain of Overwatch 2 team added: “The club is all about the people and the close-knit friendships formed through the wins and losses of a season. With the new space, we can create an even better environment that strengthens connections and enhances the experience for everyone.”
A donation from Deanna Fino—a local gaming industry entrepreneur—and alumnus Michael Fino ’90 helped make this expansion possible. Their contribution supported elements designed for team-based competition and performance.
