Chase Neukam has been named the first Director of Esports at St. Cloud State University, beginning his new role on campus Feb. 1.
Neukam will join St. Cloud State after serving as the Director of Esports at St. Ambrose University in Davenport, Iowa, where he began as an esports coach in 2019.
“I’m a jack of all trades; I’m engaged in all the ways you can grow in esports,” Neukam said. “I like mentoring, growing and learning new things.”
Neukam graduated from Ball State University in 2018, establishing the collegiate esports organization Cardinal Esports while at the school. The organization grew to over 300 members and eight teams.
Prior to coaching at St. Ambrose, Neukam helped build Paradigm, a virtual reality training facility and esports arena in Davenport. His year serving as Paradigm’s director taught him valuable lessons about the industry.
This proven track record of expanding esports programs pairs with his deep commitment to student success.
“We ensure people got opportunities post-grad,” Neukam said about his time at St. Ambrose. “We make sure they have the skillset to propel them forward.”
“A vast majority of our graduates have gone into work in the (esports) space,” he continued. “We’ve done a good job of connecting people with those positions; encouraging a culture of growth.”
Neukam stays involved in the esports industry beyond his day job. He’s been flown out to different parts of the country to commentate on games and tournaments.
He also is passionate about organizing events and planning tournaments, skills he looks forward to bringing to the St. Cloud area.
“When you are grassroots-oriented and care about your community … the local scene will show up for that,” Neukam said. “The idea of It’s Time hits close to home with my values; innovative, community-oriented. I’m ready to get to know the (St. Cloud) community and oversee varsity programs, club programs and curriculum.”
Esports are currently expanding academic programming and venues at St. Cloud State, including the new Huskies Esports Arena arriving in January.
Learn more about the esports program and St. Cloud State’s esports curriculum.
