After leading ETSU’s League of Legends and Overwatch teams as an interim coach, Jeffrey Shell was promoted and upgraded to full-time duties as the Buccaneers’ first Esports head coach.

(Contributed/ ETSU Bucs)

Shell, an avid gamer himself, appreciated the opportunity to lead the Bucs into the 2020 season.

“I was very excited when the administration approached me about the job,” said Shell. “I’ve been working hard, and I’m surrounded by really great group of people.”

It did not take long for Shell to mold into a successful mentor, as his Overwatch team successfully navigated through regular season tournaments and powered their way into the College Esports National Championship Tournament.

“We made top-16 in the nation, despite signing our last player for Overwatch in August,” Shell said. “That alone is a big point of pride for us.”

Though the Esports program has been a new addition to ETSU athletics, Shell’s team managed to exceed all expectations, defeating more established teams on their path to success.

However, Shell is still far from content with his team’s second round exit.

“For Overwatch, we really set the tone, but we’re definitely looking to improve,” said Shell. “I would like to see us reach the final four next year and again, compete for a national title.”

The Esports team is led by Austin Teagarden, also known as “MrDrZombieJr,” and Dakota Garrett, also known as “Bermouw”.

Teagarden, a soon-to-be graduate, is currently a top 500 North American player. Garrett, who started the season on Shell’s developmental team, put in the extra work and has since found a significant role on the team.

Now that the Overwatch season has concluded, Shell looks to expand his reach and continue to gain recognition throughout the East Tennessee area.

“We’re really trying to resonate with the ETSU and Tri-Cities Appalachians’ community,” said Shell. “We want to do a lot of outreach and we’re currently in talks with a couple of gaming centers to do some youth mentorship and help foster that high school scene.”