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SYRACUSE, N.Y. (Feb. 19, 2026) – Syracuse University Esports is proud to announce its collaboration with DataCoach, a personalized esports coaching and analytics platform, specializing in Rocket League. This joint effort reflects Syracuse University’s commitment to innovation, competitive excellence, and the continued growth of its collegiate program.

Through this collaboration, Syracuse University Esports will be able to use DataCoach’s advanced performance analytics to enhance team strategy, player development, and competitive preparations. By translating complex in-game data metrics into clear valuable insights, DataCoach empowers players and coaches to make informed real-time decisions that drive consistent improvement and long-term success.

DataCoach specializes in adaptable esports analytics, combining game data, player tendencies, and strategic breakdowns into a coaching framework designed for both individual growth and team-wide development. For Syracuse, this means deeper strategic understanding of the game itself and a data-informed approach that mirrors techniques used in traditional sports.

Syracuse University Esports has built a reputation as a leader in the collegiate esports space, prioritizing not only competitive results but also student development, career readiness, and academic integration. The collaboration with DataCoach strengthens this mission by reinforcing the educational value of analytics, critical thinking, and performance evaluation.

Josh Robinson, Founder & CEO of DataCoach, emphasized the shared vision behind the collaboration. “We are excited to work with Syracuse and contribute to the continued growth of their esports program through data-driven team strategy and player development,” said Robinson. “Syracuse is pushing the boundaries of collegiate esports, and we’re excited to provide our unique analytical expertise in support of smarter strategies, player development, and sustained competitive success.”

From an academic standpoint, the collaboration aligns with Syracuse University’s broader emphasis on experiential learning.

Dr. Joey Gawrysiak, Executive Director of Syracuse University Esports, highlights on how working with DataCoach enhances the educational impact of the program. “DataCoach is by far the best platform we have seen for esports data analysis. This will not only help improve our gameplay, but will help create stats and storylines for our production students to use on air”. Gawrysiak further illustrates, “I am excited to really dive into this with our students to see how we can utilize this amazing platform for our teams, production, and in the classroom as we find ways to integrate with our sport analytics program in Falk College as well”.

By integrating DataCoach’s platform, Syracuse players will gain hands-on experience with analytical systems that mirror professional sports environments. This approach not only supports competitive excellence but also reinforces Syracuse University’s mission to prepare students for success in an increasingly data-driven world. The collaboration underscores the evolving role of esports within higher education, where competitive play, academic learning, and technological innovation intersect. Together, Syracuse University Esports and DataCoach aim to establish a new standard for how collegiate esports programs can utilize analytics-driven coaching to foster smarter gameplay, deeper learning, and sustainable competitive success. Check them out for yourself at www.datacoach.gg.

Three powerhouse programs bolster PEC’s expanding collegiate roster

The Power Esports Conference (PEC) is getting a major boost for the upcoming 2025-26 season. The University of Minnesota, University of Utah, and Baylor University are joining the fold, bringing fresh talent, deeper competition, and new storylines to one of collegiate esports’ most dynamic conferences.

The addition of these three schools raises the PEC’s total membership to nine institutions, signaling a continued surge in collegiate esports momentum across North America. The conference has become a hotspot for high-level, student-centered competition in titles like Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, Valorant, Rocket League, and Overwatch 2.

Each of the new members brings something different to the table—whether it’s an already-established program, an energetic fan base, or a commitment to the holistic development of student competitors. For Doug Goon, Program Director for Esports at Minnesota, the opportunity marks a major leap forward.

“Joining the Power Esports Conference is an exciting step forward for our program,” Goon said. “We’re eager to compete at a higher level and give our students a platform to showcase their skills on a national stage.”

That sentiment is echoed by AJ Dimick, Esports Director at the University of Utah, who emphasized how well the PEC’s vision aligns with the Utes’ approach.

“Utah Esports is proud to join a conference that aligns with our vision for competitive integrity, academic balance, and program growth,” Dimick said.

The PEC’s current lineup already features some heavy hitters. Boise State enters the new season as reigning champions in Rocket League and Overwatch 2, while Michigan State claimed the 2025 titles in both Valorant and Super Smash Bros. Ultimate. Programs like Syracuse, Nebraska, Kansas, and Ohio State continue to build strong rosters and passionate communities, setting the stage for a highly competitive field this fall.

Adam Stanley, Director of Esports and Head Coach at Baylor, sees the conference as a natural
fit.

“This is a great opportunity for our players, our fans, and our institution,” Stanley said. “We’re honored to be part of a growing and respected esports ecosystem.”

Beyond the obvious boost in competition, the expansion adds exciting new regional rivalries and opportunities for student shoutcasters, analysts, and esports professionals-in-training to shine on larger platforms. With more schools, more games, and more exposure, the 2025-26 PEC season is shaping up to be its biggest yet.

Schedules, matchups, and new broadcast partnerships are set to be announced in the coming weeks. But one thing’s already clear—the PEC just leveled up.