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Step into the Flight Deck

UNF Esports

UNF is launching a comprehensive Esports program that will engage current students, connect with local high schools, and create new opportunities in a fast-growing industry. Through mentorship, skills training, and annual tournaments, we’re introducing high school students in the Jacksonville area to Esports and career pathways in game development, broadcasting, and Esports management. For current Ospreys, the program will offer opportunities to compete on a collegiate Esports team, gain hands-on experience in event production and content creation, and explore new academic offerings tied to the business and technology of Esports. Construction is already underway on a new, state-of-the-art Esports arena located in the John A. Delaney Student Union West building, which will feature high-performance gaming systems, professional broadcast capabilities, and space for spectators. UNF is also integrating Esports into the classroom, preparing students to lead in an innovative, global field.

What's Coming?

  • The Flight Deck, a new, state-of-the-art Esports arena in the John A. Delaney Student Union
  • A renovated auditorium for viewers to watch Esports competitions
  • The modern consoles in the Game Room will be relocated to the Flight Deck and the current space will be expanded with new features.
  • Establishment of a new Esports competitive team
  • New scholarship funding opportunities for UNF students
  • New course curriculum in Esports-related content areas
  • Events and programming for the UNF and local community
Mayor Deegan, President Limayem at Esports funding bill signing

COMMUNITY SUPPORT

The city of Jacksonville has approved $3 million in funding for the UNF Flight Deck Esports & Innovation Arena in the John A. Delaney Student Union. This investment will allow UNF to:

  • Attract more students into STEM careers in Jacksonville
  • Expose area high school students to college opportunities and job pathways
  • Host regional and national competitions, bringing visitors to Jacksonville

Benefits to the Jacksonville Community

Esports events draw large audiences, as shown at other public university venues and arenas. UNF's Flight Deck will:

  • Support local businesses through increased economic activity
  • Enhance local commerce and tourism
  • Provide economic benefits through patronage and visibility
  • Attract gaming industry and related businesses to Jacksonville
  • Help UNF attract more students to meet enrollment expansion
  • Boost engagement with the UNF campus and provides higher education awareness
five students playing video games

CAREER PATHWAYS

Esports is a rapidly trending method for engaging young students in science, technology, engineering and mathematics. By bringing local high school teams to UNF's campus to compete, students have an opportunity to see themselves on a college campus, many for the very first time, and explore new pathways to careers in high-demand fields:

  • Computing
  • Game Design
  • Software Engineering
  • Public Relations
  • Network Engineering
  • Marketing
  • Data Analytics
  • Graphic Design
  • Broadcasting/Journalism
  • Event Planning
  • Content Creating
  • Esports Management

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COMING SPRING 2026

We are actively working on the Esports project and are excited about the progress being made. As the project continues to develop, we look forward to sharing more updates, images, and details with you. Stay tuned for more as we bring this exciting vision to life!
North Florida Esports