GLENSIDE, Pa. - Arcadia University has announced that Bill Rodgers will be promoted to Director of Esports, effective June 1. Rodgers steps into his new role after serving as the Knights' Assistant Director of Esports and Head Hearthstone Coach for the program's first two seasons on campus.
"Bill is very passionate about Esports and deeply committed to Arcadia," Executive Director of Athletics and Recreation Brian Granata said. "He has been instrumental in the development of Esports at Arcadia, and we are confident in his abilities to lead our growing program in the years to come. Bill is a tireless worker and someone who cares about his student-athletes."
Rodgers takes over the director role after building a solid foundation for the Arcadia Esports program in its first two seasons, leading recruiting efforts while developing the Hearthstone team into a nationally-recognized power. He oversaw the Esports program's first-ever conference title this spring when Mason Cole captured the NECC Hearthstone Champions Division crown and led the team to a deep run in the NACE National Championship bracket.
He also played a pivotal role in hosting the Philly Esports 2v2 Rocket League Tournament in the Arcadia Esports Arena in February 2020 - an event that featured 37 teams and 74 total participants - in addition to the Arcadia Knights' Invitational last fall.
"I would like to thank Arcadia Athletics for giving me the opportunity to continue the work we have started here in the Esports program," Rodgers remarked. "Our growth and success over the past two years has been incredible and I am excited to take the program to the next level in the years to come! Arcadia has been home for the last six years and I am glad to call it home for even more."
Rodgers graduated from Arcadia in December of 2018 with a bachelor's degree in business administration with a concentration in marketing and management, and was a member of the Arcadia men's swimming team as an undergraduate.
- Information and photo image for this release provided by the Arcadia University communications staff -
ABOUT NECC ESPORTS
The NECC began sponsoring esports in the fall of 2020. The NECC is currently sponsoring both regular season competition and championships across a wide variety of titles. The conference aims to serve the gaming community with respect and is a safe and inclusive environment. With more than 90 colleges and universities currently competing in the conference, the NECC is proud to be a positive home for the collegiate gaming community. For more information, please visit necc.gg
