Panther Esports – University of Northern Iowa, Cedar Falls, IA, USA
UNI Niagara esports home, driven by a large competitive and casual club structure. Panther Esports blends laid-back camaraderie with fierce competition, making it the go-to campus spot whether you’re chasing high-octane matches or just gaming with friends. From casual players to trophy contenders, everyone finds a welcome place in the club’s mix of competitive drive and community warmth.
The heart of the operation is the Panther Gaming Lounge, tucked into the lower level of Maucker Union. It’s a cozy space with 12 stations, including six Alienware PCs, plus console setups for Xbox, PlayStation, and Nintendo Switch. The club has even transformed an old gym near Maucker into a temporary gaming hub, a testament to their resourcefulness and UNI’s quiet push toward a more permanent esports space in the future.
More than just pixels and leaderboards, this is a genuine gaming family. With around 235 students connected through Discord and other socials, there’s always someone to squad up with. Competitive rosters share the stage with casual gatherings, and the lineup of official teams spans Rocket League, Overwatch 2, League of Legends, Valorant, Rainbow 6: Siege, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, Call of Duty, Counter-Strike 2, Apex Legends, and Fortnite. If a game isn’t on the list, the club encourages members to rally interest and form a team.
Tournaments, campus-wide competitions, and regional LAN appearances keep the schedule exciting, while streaming on Twitch, posting on YouTube, and staying active on Instagram ensure Panther Esports is a visible part of UNI’s culture. From their gear-filled lounge under Maucker Union to their welcoming community and competitive spirit, Panther Esports plays every frame with the same energy and pride as the Panther name itself.
Gaming at a glance:
📍 1227 W 27th St. Cedar Falls, Iowa 50614
🕒 Club-based schedule (practice/practice times via calendar)
💻 Student hardware for training and scrims; streaming gear supported
🏆 Rostered teams across RL, Overwatch 2, LoL, Valorant, Smash, etc.
💲 Free for UNI students; club-organized tournaments often open to locals
📞 +1 (319) 273‑2311
📧 esports@uni.edu
🌐 https://esports.uni.edu/