Cosgrove’s computer lab is being renovated into a new esports facility. According to Keith Hamaker, Director of Esports, the start of this project dates back to Christmas Break of 2024.
“I noticed the lab was gutted, so to speak. I stopped by Physical Plant, and I said, ‘Hey, are there any plans to do anything with this room?’ and they were like, ‘No.’
“After spring break, we ended up getting the room, and then over the summer, we got the bee card access.”
SAU senior Joseph Foley led the room’s renovations. “It started off as more or less a personal project, you know?
“When I heard that we got the computer lab…I was really excited to do a bunch of renovations for it…
“I just wanted to try my best to make it look as best as possible and leave my impact on the program for any future students.”
Renovation would halt during the first week of the semester, after the flooring removal was completed.
According to Foley, “Physical Plant found out about our construction in the room, and they needed to look over a few things before we continued.”
Hamaker believes this is for the best. “Safety is the number one priority…making sure the room is all up to standards is important.
“We’re also making sure it’s how we like it…not just cramming ourselves and cramming desks in there…
“…we want it to look presentable and have it be a good environment.”
Hamaker still wants the room completed as soon as possible. “Optimistically by the third week of September, but I would push for a hard deadline before October 1st.”
Foley believes it could take a while before a response is given. “It’s Physical Plant…I’d imagine time could vary with them…
“But we’re ready to install the new flooring whenever they get their business done in there.”
The St. Ambrose Esports team’s Fall season will begin this week.
To watch, go to https://www.twitch.tv/sauesports for their main stream or https://www.youtube.com/@fightingbeesports for their side stream.
