With the help of a world-renowned coach and a talented group of first-year recruits, Idaho State University joined schools across the nation in offering an Esports program for student gamers, who solidified their commitment to the team at a signing ceremony in August 2024. The players ended the inaugural season victorious by capturing the championship title at the Big Sky State Games/Big Sky Rocket League Championship in May 2025.
Adding to the excitement for the newly formed team, a major gift from Direct Communications will establish the new Direct Communications Esports Arena on the ISU campus. The partnership continues the company’s deep commitment to rural education and student enrichment across Idaho. Students competed on three teams - Team Valorant, Team Overwatch, and Team Rocket League. Donning professional jerseys and going up against a lineup of top-tier programs, including Colorado State, Montana State, the University of Montana, the University of Oregon, and Washington State University, Team Rocket League prevailed. The Bengals Esports Coach Charles “Mystvc” Johnston, a highly decorated player and coach, led the team to victory. Johnston, from Pocatello, claimed the 2023 Call of Duty World Champion title and due to his gaming prowess, wasn’t able to attend the signing day event because he was invited to participate in the Esports World Cup as the coach of the Call of Duty team in Saudi Arabia.
“Esports is about more than just gaming–it’s about bringing students together, fostering a community where they can connect, collaborate, and compete.”
Lowell Richards
Associate Vice President for Student Affairs
In their first major season, the Rocket League Bengals proved they’re a force to be reckoned with, toppling a field of premier collegiate programs to bring home the trophy.
“This is a huge win for our program and our players,” said Coach Johnston. “They showed the heart of champions—bouncing back from adversity, staying locked in, and trusting in each other every step of the way. We couldn’t be prouder of what they’ve accomplished.”
Although students are gaming for the Bengals, academics still come first.
“The goal of our program is to enhance the overall student experience and provide a pathway toward graduation,” said Lowell Richards, associate vice president for student affairs. “We require a minimum GPA, and we’ll be checking in with our players to help ensure their success in gaming and in the classroom, because we want them to be graduates of ISU.”
Richards strongly believes that Esports are an important part of campus life, improving student and community engagement while offering opportunities for students to learn a wide variety of skills as they pursue their degree.
The $520,000 gift from Direct Communications will support construction of a state-of-the- art gaming facility, with project groundbreaking anticipated for Fall 2025, and completion targeted for January 1, 2026. The new arena will serve as the hub for ISU’s growing Esports program and a high-tech gathering space for students from all disciplines.
“This generous investment from Direct Communications expands access to cutting- edge technology for ISU students while strengthening our ability to support student wellness, teamwork, and innovation,” said Coach Johnston. “We are incredibly grateful for their continued support of Idaho’s students.” In recognition of this contribution, ISU Esports will launch an annual Direct Communications Youth Esports Invitational, after completion of construction, and continuing through at least 2030.
“We knew this partnership for the Esports Arena was right for us because it aligns with the goals of Direct Communications. It is about more than just gaming–it’s about bringing the best to communities and schools by connecting them to the rapidly evolving digital world. That is what our company is all about, providing high speed internet to rural communities to help bridge the digital divide,” said Tim May, general manager of Direct Communications. “We are happy to partner with ISU to empower the next generation of Idaho’s Innovators.”