National Champion Alumnus Returns to Lead Surging UE Esports Program

Evansville, Ind. (01/06/2026) — The University of Evansville (UE) is building on the rapid momentum of its Esports program with the appointment of Ethan Jaworski '24 as Head Esports Coach & Coordinator. Jaworski officially joined the program in July 2025, just months after leading UE's Overwatch 2 team to the program's first-ever NECC Regional Championship and National Championship as a student-athlete.

A December 2024 graduate with a bachelor's degree in Sports Communication, Jaworski brings a unique perspective as both a recent alumnus and championship team captain. His return marks a full-circle moment for a program that has quickly emerged as a competitive force on the national collegiate esports stage.

"This program gave me opportunities I never imagined when I arrived at UE as a student," Jaworski said. "To return as head coach and help guide the next generation of Aces, both competitively and professionally, is incredibly meaningful. We've built a strong foundation, and now the focus is sustaining excellence, expanding opportunities for our players, and continuing to raise the national profile of UE Esports."

Under Jaworski's leadership and momentum from the 2024-25 season, UE Esports continues to demonstrate sustained success across multiple titles. During the fall 2025 semester, both the Overwatch 2 and Super Smash Bros. Ultimate teams completed undefeated regular seasons. The Overwatch 2 team advanced to the Regional Championship finals, while Super Smash Bros. Ultimate reached the semifinal round of the Regional Playoffs.

The Overwatch 2 team also achieved a significant visibility milestone this fall, earning its first feature on the National Esports Collegiate Conference (NECC) Twitch broadcast during its semifinal victory, an indicator of UE Esports' growing national recognition.

Beyond competition, UE Esports is investing in experiential learning and student development. The program recently launched its official Twitch streaming platform, featuring live commentary provided by players and coaches to create a more immersive and accessible viewing experience. Plans are underway to further professionalize broadcasts with upgraded equipment, a dedicated commentary booth, custom graphics and transitions, and a student stream producer role.

These enhancements will also create hands-on learning opportunities through partnerships with UE's Creative Technologies program, connecting classroom learning with real-world experience in broadcasting, production, and digital media.

In addition, UE Esports is exploring a potential partnership with the Indiana Esports Network this spring to provide a centralized esports facility for local high school programs. The collaboration would position the University of Evansville as a regional hub for esports competition and community engagement, while strengthening the pipeline for future student-athletes.