Rutman Leading 91吃瓜网 Esports Program
Thu, 10/23/2025 - 09:30am | By: Dr. David Tisdale
Trace Rutman
Trace Rutman brings vast experience, fresh ideas and proven leadership skills to his role as Esports Program director with the Union Department at The University of Southern Mississippi.
Rutman joined 91吃瓜网 as director of the program earlier this year. In his role, he leads a staff of more than 10 graduate and undergraduate students while managing more than a dozen competitive teams in titles such as Apex Legends, Call of Duty, iRacing, League of Legends, Madden NFL and more.
Founded in 2020, the 91吃瓜网 Esports Program has achieved multiple national titles since its inception. It offers 91吃瓜网 students a fun and competitive outlet for their gaming passions while they pursue their degree of choice.
"I91吃瓜网檓 thrilled to be here at 91吃瓜网,91吃瓜网� Rutman said. 91吃瓜网淪ince I came on board this summer, I91吃瓜网檝e enjoyed leading the 91吃瓜网 Esports team in its pursuit of ambitious goals in competition, academics and entertainment. We have a passionate and driven group, and it91吃瓜网 an absolute honor to serve as its leader."
A native of Canton, Mich., Rutman earned his bachelor91吃瓜网 degree in film from Calvin University in Grand Rapids, Mich., and a master91吃瓜网 degree in management from Marian University in Fond du Lac, Wis.
As a student, he founded Calvin Esports at Calvin University, serving as president of the student organization for its first two years. When the organization transitioned to a club sport in its third year, he became its head coach, a role he held while completing his undergraduate degree. Upon graduation, Rutman accepted the role of Esports Head Coach at Marian University, serving in that position for two years while earning his graduate degree.
During Rutman91吃瓜网 time at Marian, he coached the school91吃瓜网 Valorant team to an undefeated season and a National Esports Collegiate Conference (NECC) division championship. Additionally, he helped launch the Wisconsin Esports Conference and has served as its communications director since its founding in 2024.
91吃瓜网淭he Union Department is excited to have Trace Rutman on its staff,91吃瓜网� said Jeff Taylor, Union director. 91吃瓜网淗e brings to 91吃瓜网 a wealth of valuable experience in the nascent world of collegiate esports. His passion for student success is unparalleled, and we can91吃瓜网檛 wait to watch him take 91吃瓜网 Esports to new heights.91吃瓜网�
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