The Muskingum University Athletic Department has named Tristan Murphy '19 as director of esports.

Murphy, who previously served as an assistant coach for the Muskingum esports program, was the lead coach and recruiter for the Muskie Rocket League Team. He also assisted with six other competitive Muskingum esports squads. Murphy led film review and analysis sessions and helped manage the academic progress of the esports' student-athletes. 

"I am extremely excited for both Tristan and the future of our esports program," said Muskingum Interim Athletic Director Kari Winters. "He brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to this position that will benefit our student-athletes daily."

Before Muskingum, Murphy, a Zanesville, Ohio native, worked at Twitch Interactive as a content creator and produced, edited, and posted content for TikTok, YouTube, Twitter, and Instagram. He also collaborated and worked closely with professional esports players and professional content creators from organizations such as Spacestation Gaming, G2 Esports, and Renault Vitality. Additionally, Murphy freelanced as a video editor, creating materials for other content creators for their TikTok and YouTube channels. 

"I'm very excited to be named director of esports and to be the person to keep the Muskingum esports program going in a great direction," said Murphy. I am looking forward to bringing prestige and success to a place so close to home."

Murphy began his esports playing career at an early age and transitioned to playing Fortnite competitively as a student at Muskingum. He also competes in Rocket League, where he is a part of an amateur team that has had competitive success in tournaments such as the Intel World Open North American Qualifiers.

Murphy graduated from Muskingum in 2019 with a B.S. in computer science and is currently pursuing an M.A.E.