Promotional Photo for Battle for the River, advertising the five games played at the event: Valorant, Rocket League, Overwatch, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, and Marvel Rivals
St. Ambrose University beat Augustana College 4-1 in Battle for the River on Saturday, May 2nd. This is SAU Esports’ fourth year in a row winning Battle for the River.
SAU’s Homefield Advantage
This year, Battle for the River was held at St. Ambrose University. SAU Senior and Rainbow Six Siege player AJ Haynie says, “This event felt more energetic and lively than the past ones
maybe it was just a biased feeling from it being my last one, but I was hoping for close matches and once-in-a-lifetime moments to make it that much more memorable.”
Haynie believes Battle for the River to be beneficial “…because it gives a sense of community and friendly competition between two relatively small universities in a rather large group of cities.
“Although it is primarily a competition, the sense of community and culture it brings to both campuses is the best aspect.”
SAU Senior and Overwatch player Joseph Pyle agrees with Haynie’s sentiments. He says, “I really enjoy playing with the Augustana players. I don’t get to play a lot in-person for Overwatch, it’s hard to coordinate that. Being with another local school and competing is fun.”
Overwatch won their game against Augustana 3-1. Pyle felt confident in his team’s victory over Augustana. He states, “The competitions we usually play in we’re winning against people ranked higher than us. Our rank average is higher than the opposing team this time around, so it’ll be significantly easier.”
SAU & Augustana Player Support
SAU Senior and Super Smash Bros. Ultimate player Joseph Foley feels the community goes beyond the competition. Foley says, “The more we meet up as teams and players, the better we can connect and encourage others to come out to events.
“I love seeing so many people passionate about playing games gather together…Augustana is polite company.”
Haynie originally got into Battle for the River for production and casting. He notes that “Rainbow Six Siege has never competed, so I was mostly a spectator in the previous years…to be a part of the production side felt rewarding and fun.
“Between being behind the scenes to ensure a smooth stream experience for viewers while catching the action, and on top of that commentating multiple game titles, this has been an event I always look forward to.”
Haynie’s commentary can be heard during Valorant, Overwatch, and Marvel Rivals. “All three games were super high-energy and a blast to cast.
“I made sure my last Battle for the River was one to remember…”
Senior Send-offs Rock the SAU Esports Boat
About 15 SAU Esports seniors will be graduating in May. Keith Hamaker, Director of Esports at St. Ambrose University, says for him it is “by far the biggest class we’ve seen leave since I’ve been here.
“I wanted Battle for the River to be a last chance opportunity for everyone to represent the fighting bees one last time, and I think we did a good job making that happen.”
Haynie believes, “Because of the graduating class from this semester and the new incoming recruits, the next event will certainly shake things up. I expect St. Ambrose to keep the oar moving forward, but I don’t suspect it’ll be any easier for them to do so.
“Part of the success from the Bees throughout the years has come from sentiments passed through the directors and graduating players…we are a highly competitive, punctual, and open-minded Esports program.
“I hope the next Battle for the River is just as exciting and memorable as this one, if not more. New teams, chemistry, leaders, casters, and energy will spice it up.”
Foley agrees with Haynie’s beliefs. “I am fully confident in our younger players to exceed their potential and keep the win streak going.
“I think the fact that so many of us encourage each other to learn and improve at our games is what leads to quality games. As long as everyone can feel at home within Esports, we’ll continue to succeed.”
Hamaker is looking forward to the new talent in the next Battle for the River. “We are going to have a lot of new roster spots…I anticipate it to be a much closer battle next year.
“I know Augustana is returning a lot of their juniors and sophomores…I’ve already started talking to their director about some changes we want to make, including updating the five titles, but I’ll keep that a surprise!”
To watch the recording of this year’s Battle for the River, go to the SAU Esports Twitch page.
For information on Battle for the River 2025, read Raging Rivalries and Sweeping Victories.
