BLUEFIELD, Va. - Bluefield University will compete in its first-ever collegiate Esports match on Monday, September 29, marking the start of the school's official competition in the Eastern College Athletic Conference (ECAC).

The inaugural season places Bluefield among over 200 colleges and about 1,400 teams competing in 21 titles through the ECAC. Bluefield will field players in Teamfight Tactics, Apex Legends, Fortnite, and Rocket League.

Teamfight Tactics and Apex Legends will be played on Mondays at 8 p.m., Fortnite on Tuesdays at 8 p.m., and Rocket League on Thursdays at 8 p.m. Matches will run every week from September 29 through November 14. The ECAC playoffs are scheduled for November 17 through December 19. All matches will take place in the university's Esports Center, which is outfitted with high-end gaming computers, monitors, chairs, and peripherals.

The ECAC runs fall and spring seasons, each with seven weeks of regular play and three to four weeks of playoffs. Most competition is online, though the league also hosts in-person events.

"This is a huge step for Bluefield University and our Esports program," said Madison Whisman, head coach of Bluefield University Esports. "Esports is a rapidly growing field that gives non-traditional athletes a chance to showcase their skills. We're excited to give our students the opportunity to compete on a national stage while also offering scholarships for those who want to be part of building this program."

High school students or transfer students interested in competing or learning more about esports at Bluefield can visit https://www.bluefield.edu/esports/.