Over 800 students. 16 universities and colleges. 8 titles. Countless moments of gameplay magic.
After a record-breaking year in 2024/25 and hot on the heels of our announcement launching Ireland Esports Leagues - the Ireland Esports Collegiate Series is returning this October with new formats, enhanced broadcasts and even more opportunities to compete, grow and represent your institution on the national stage.
Backed by Nativz Gaming, this year’s Series is the result of three years of deep learning, student feedback and institutional insight — and it’s all building toward a bold future where Irish esports is front and centre at a global level.
🔥 What’s New in 2025/26?
We’ve levelled up — again. Here’s what’s new:
🎓 Premier Division (NEW)
Think varsity rugby or first-team football — but for esports. Each institution can now enter their top team per title in this high-performance tier. Expect:
Weekly live national broadcasts
One end of year LAN National Finals for the best of the best
Support to explore on-campus locations for games
🎯 Titles: Rocket League, Valorant, League of Legends, Counter-Strike 2
🧑🤝🧑 Open Division
Still the heart of campus competition — inclusive, social, and electric. Whether you’re a second team, society squad, or just getting started, this is your space to shine.
All skill levels, play for fun or build toward the top
Keep teams and societies active year-round with a social-first structure
Creators – cast, create, compete your way
🎯 Additional Titles: Teamfight Tactics, Overwatch, EA FC (Winter only), F1 (Winter only)
🗓️ Semester Finals Weeks
No more waiting — each round ends with a same-night showdown. Finals now happen midweek, online and on broadcast.
💬 Amplified Student Rep Network
More support for your societies. More visibility for your teams. More energy on campus.
📍 New LAN Events
We’ve restructured LANs to give every division its moment. Expect exciting in-person events that recognise both elite and grassroots efforts.
📅 The 2025/26 Season at a Glance
Semester | Registrations | Dates |
|---|---|---|
Winter (Confirmed) | 1 Sep - 3 Oct | 6 Oct – 5 Dec 2025 |
Spring (Provisional) | 9 Dec - 6 Feb | 9 Feb – 10 Apr 2026 |
Live Premier Division matches will be broadcast Monday to Thursday at 8pm, with community casters also invited to stream Open Division games.
Interested in Community Casting for the Open Division? Drop us an email on [email protected]
🧠 Why It Matters
With esports on track to feature at the Esports Olympics in 2027, now is the time for Irish institutions to:
Back their players with space, visibility, and support
Recognise esports teams as official university representatives
Leverage this platform to drive student engagement and inclusion
This Series isn’t just about gaming — it’s about teamwork, talent development, digital literacy, and building pathways from college to career.
✅ Ready to Join?
Player registration is now open.
Let’s build the future of Irish esports — together.
The Collegiate Series is your home for competition, community and the next chapter in student sport. One of three competitions that make up the Ireland Esports Leagues.
