Office of Student Life
Esports

2024 Esports Summer Camp

The Ohio State University Recreational Sports Department is excited to announce a brand-new summer camp experience for the Ohio State and Columbus communities! For the first time, The Ohio State Esports Arena is opening its doors for two 5-day summer camps that will provide participants with a unique look into the world of esports. 

Through gaming and sports recreation, campers will have the opportunity to explore the impact of technology on society, participate in problem-solving activities, and experience a preview of life in a collegiate esports program. All while visiting the state-of-the-art Ohio State Esports Arena, the largest facility of its kind in the Big Ten Conference

In addition, campers will be taught by experienced collegiate esports student-athletes and staff, including Dr. John Price, who oversees the Ohio State Esports Program. 

Campers will also learn about various educational topics such as video broadcasting, healthy gaming habits, equipment maintenance, virtual reality, and team leadership. 

Some of the video game titles that will be reviewed during camp are:

  • Rocket League 
  • Super Smash Brothers 
  • Fortnite
  • Mario Kart

Registration for Summer Camp will begin on February 13, 2024, at 9:00 a.m. 

For more information on how to register, email esports@osu.edu or visit the rec register website.

See below for additional camp details, an example day schedule, and Frequently Asked Questions.  

2024 Esports Camp Information

  • Dates:

    • July 8-12, 2024

    • July 15-19, 2024

  • Ages: 10-13

  • Camp Hours:

    • Early Drop off: 8- 9 a.m. 

    • General Camp: 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

    • Pickup: 4-4:30 p.m. 

  • Price: $350 Per week / Per Camp

  • Registration Opens February 13, 2024, at 9:30 a.m.

  • Location: Ohio State Esports Arena
    210 Lincoln Tower
    1800 Cannon Dr.
    Columbus, OH 43210 

Campers can bring their PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch or other USB/Bluetooth-compatible controllers and computer peripherals to summer camp. 

A limited amount of controllers are available in the esports arena for those who do not possess a controller. 

Campers of all skill levels are welcome.

Example Camp Schedule 

  • 8 - 9 a.m.: Drop-off and check-in

  • 9 - 9:30 a.m.: Welcome and introduction to esports camp

  • 9:30 - 11 a.m.: Esports title of the day group practice sessions 
    Ex. Rocket League, Super Smash Brothers Ultimate, Fortnite, and Mario Kart

  • 11 a.m. - 12 p.m.: Esports Workshop 
    (Broadcasting 101, Healthy Habits and Gaming, Communication and Technology seminar)

  • 12 p.m. - 1 p.m.: Lunch and break

  • 1 - 2 p.m.: Esports practice session/team building exercise

  • 2 - 3:30 p.m.: Esports Workshop/Competition session

  • 3:30 - 4 p.m.: Cool down and camp review

  • 4 - 4:30 p.m.: Wrap-up and check-out

Note: This schedule is just a sample and is open to modifications depending on the camp's needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What will my camper be learning during an esports camp?

  • Campers will learn the fundamentals of a variety of esports titles through the course of the week. Ex.
    • Rocket League
    • Super Smash Brothers Ulitmate
    • Fortnite
    • Mario Kart
  • Receive hands-on experience with broadcasting technology.
  • Learn about how to have a healthy relationship with video games.
  • Discover the wide range of careers associated with esports and technology.
  • Experience what the world of collegiate esports is like.
  • Meet new friends in a safe and supportive environment.

What does a camper need to bring?

  • Access to an Epic Games account (Rocket League / Fortnite)
  • A packed, non-perishable lunch for each day of camp
  • A PlayStation 4/5 controller, Xbox One, or newer Windows-compatible USB/Bluetooth controller 
    • optional: campers can bring their controllers for Nintendo Switch consoles. 

What equipment will be available for campers to use during camp? (I.E., campers do not need to provide themselves)

  • Headsets with microphones 
  • Alienware Mice and Keyboards
  • Copies of Mario Kart and Super Smash Brothers Ulitmate and Nintendo Switch consoles
  • Joy-Con controllers for Nintendo Switch consoles 

How do I contact the camp office while the camp is in session? 

  • Call the office at 614-688-8787 
  • Reach out via email at esports@osu.edu