The Northwood University Esports Timberwolves has won their second world championship, this time in the video game “Valorant,” as the Midland-based electronic sports team defeated more than 50 of the top collegiate teams to win the Red Bull Campus Clutch World Final in Sao Paulo, Brazil.
“To be in Brazil competing against the best teams in the world was surreal,” says Cody Elsen, coach and program director of Northwood eSports. “The pressure was high, but our players didn’t waiver. They showed the preparation, patience and persistence that has made Northwood University one of the premiere collegiate esports programs in the country.”
Northwood defeated nearly 500 U.S. teams to earn the national title and represent Team USA at the Red Bull Campus Clutch World Final this week. The players competing in the world championship included Braden Dippel, Ali Salahedin, Hunter McMillan, Benjamin Park, and Micheal Herrera.
“These students, their coaching staff, and everyone affiliated with Northwood Esports have made their university incredibly proud this week,” says Andy Cripe, dean of student affairs. “This title is a testament to their dedication and talent, as well as that of all their fellow teammates.”
This is Northwood Esports’ second world championship, as Northwood won the Collegiate Rocket League World Championship in June.
“The world championship that we won earlier this year was for the game Rocket League, and this week, we were competing for the world title in the game ‘Valorant,’” says Justin Marshall, chief development and engagement officer for Northwood University. “Esports is an umbrella for multiple competitive games, similar to how a university’s athletics department is an umbrella to numerous traditional competitive sports.”
Northwood competed against more than 50 other countries in Brazil for the “Valorant” world title this week. In the final round, Northwood defeated Team Canada for the world championship.
“Northwood Esports is arguably the top esports program in the country, and our passion to grow requires innovative partners who wish to support young men and women through scholarships, sponsorships, and expanding our esports arena,” Marshall says.
