Esports History: Varsity Call of Duty Team to Compete In-Person at NACE Championships

While some fans are focused on the upcoming NCAA championship game, the UNT Dallas Varsity Call of Duty team is aiming for a national championship in Esports.

For the first time, UNT Dallas Esports will compete in-person at the NACE (National Association of Collegiate Esports) Grand Finals, set for April 23-26, 2026, at Full Sail University in Orlando, FL.

“I’m extremely proud of this team and this accomplishment,” said Caleb Simmons, Assistant Director of Esports. “Being able to compete at such a high level while also being full-time students is incredibly impressive.”

The varsity Call of Duty team made it to the finals after beating Fanshawe College – a Canadian team – in a 3-2 victory on April 1.

Team members include Junior Aaron Walker, Junior Justin Timerson, Sophomore Daniel Rodriguez, and College of Law student Harrison Stepp, who serves as captain. “I would like to highlight our college of law team member, as I know the program is rigorous,” said Simmons. “Harrison Stepp has been here since the beginning and deserves this shot at a championship.”

The UNT Dallas Esports team has been growing in size and impact over the past several years. While numerous teams have won divisional and national titles, no team has ever competed in-person in the championship round. Last December, our teams won the NACE Smash Bros competition and the NECC Marvel Rivals contest.

The campus Esports arena recently expanded its space in the Student Center, offering a place for students to play recreationally.

President Warren von Eschenbach has even given the Esports program a “shout out” during UNT System Board of Regents meetings, to the delight of Chancellor Michael Williams and Regents. “The President knows how well Esports can recruit,” Simmons said, acknowledging its popularity and ability to attract prospective students to UNT Dallas.

As the Varsity Call of Duty team prepares to head south for the NACE Grand Finals, a former teammate will be on their minds and in their hearts. Jonathan "Spydi" Suarez, the program's Call of Duty champion in the 2023 and 2024 seasons, passed away last year. Suarez, an educucation major and aspiring teacher, would have graduated next month.

When the Grand Finals begin in three weeks, our Trailblazers will have unwavering support here, there, and from above.