LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Spalding University Esports is entering a new chapter of competition in 2026-27 as the Golden Eagles compete as members of the Great Lakes Esports Conference (GLEC).

The move to the GLEC provides Spalding Esports with new opportunities to compete against collegiate programs from across the region while continuing to build the Golden Eagles' growing varsity esports program.

The 2026-27 season will feature Spalding competing in several titles, including Valorant, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, Rocket League and Mario Kart World, with additional games potentially being added as the season progresses.

For Spalding Esports Head Coach Trevor Johnson, joining the GLEC represents another important step in the development of the program. "Joining the Great Lakes Esports Conference is an exciting opportunity for our program," said Johnson. "We have been working to build Spalding Esports into a competitive collegiate program, and the GLEC gives our students another opportunity to compete, grow and represent Spalding at a high level."

The Golden Eagles enter the season with a roster that combines returning players with new additions to the program. The 2026-27 roster includes competitors across multiple titles, giving Spalding a strong foundation as the program expands its conference competition.

Spalding Esports has continued to expand since beginning varsity competition, competing in a variety of titles and postseason opportunities. During the 2025-26 season, the program competed in games including Super Smash Bros., Fortnite, Rocket League, Apex Legends and EA Sports College Football.

"We want our students to have the same type of competitive experience that our traditional athletic programs provide," Johnson added. "That means building a team culture, developing our players, competing for championships and creating opportunities for our students to grow both inside and outside of competition."

Head Coach Trevoer Johnson was also picked to serve on the GLEC Board of Directors for the 2026-27 year. 

Fans can follow Spalding Esports throughout the season for match results, team updates, livestreams and behind-the-scenes content as the Golden Eagles begin their GLEC journey.