The NDSU Memorial Union is set to begin construction on “ThundarGround,” a major renovation of the facility’s esports lab. The new space is tentatively scheduled to open in spring 2023.

The new esports area will be more than 1,200 square feet, and include 25 to 30 gaming stations, two seating areas for console gaming, table space for players who bring their own laptops and a small team/coaching/lounge area. Total cost of the project is estimated at $500,000.

The space is a significant improvement over the old esports lab, which was 350 square feet and had 17 stations gaming stations.

“Esports on the NDSU campus is growing rapidly, but has been disconnected due to the lack of adequate space on campus. This expansion will provide more options and a better environment for esports organizations and students who just want to play for fun,” said Paul Wraalstad, Memorial Union director of operations. “Our campus can also begin to look at the opportunities surrounding a more organized esports program. There are already courses on esports management taking place in the current space, and I expect other course opportunities will expand.”

Active esports participants are enthusiastic about the project. 

“The new area will give access for students to play almost any game imaginable,” said Alex Kotula, NDSU Rocket League vice president. “This is a huge step for NDSU esports, as NDSU is now well on its way to becoming one of the biggest esports schools in the Midwest."

Wraalstad said esports continue to be a growing need on university campuses, similar to showcase residence halls, wellness centers and dining facilities. Many prospective students come to campus looking for a space like the esports lab.

“Student Government came to me looking for projects that would have a high level of student impact to support with their reserve funds. Once I started sharing preliminary details about this project they were intrigued and we pulled in the esports student organizations, Wraalstad said. “Leadership from our Rocket League and League of Legends clubs were very excited and took the lead on presenting information to Student Senate in support of this project. Once the project was funded, these organizational leaders have continued to be involved in the design and planning process.”

The lab expansion is funded with reserve funds from Student Government and the Memorial Union.