FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
[Bethany, OK] - On Friday, April 24, 2026, the SNU Esports program won its first national championship in Halo, a fast-paced multiplayer game that emphasizes teamwork, map control, and strategic execution.
Playing in a double-elimination format among eight teams from across the country, SNU Esports entered bracket play as the No. 1 seed. Led by team captain Austin Jones, they defeated Esports programs from Baylor University, Butler University, and The University of Oklahoma on the way to capturing the national title. Key performers for the tournament run also included Dezmond Williams, Tajon Williams, and Austin Rosebrook.
Head Coach Austin Schoenfeldt reflected on the win, saying, “I am super proud of all the hard work that went into this season. The guys put in a ton of hours to make this possible. After struggling all season against OU, it was nice to see their practice and the film they watched pay off after beating them twice to win it all. We’re excited to bring a national championship to the SNU Esports and Athletics program. I know there are many more to come.”
SNU Esports continues postseason play as it competes for the national championship in Valorant, a video game in which two teams of five players compete in objective-based rounds, combining strategy, communication, and specialized abilities to outplay their opponents. The Crimson Storm will face Missouri State University at 7 p.m. on Monday, May 4, 2026. Those interested in viewing the match can tune in at twitch.tv/snu_esports.
Southern Nazarene University, located in Bethany, Oklahoma, is a private Christian institution committed to shaping servant leaders since 1899. With more than 50 undergraduate and graduate programs offered on campus and online, SNU emphasizes accessibility, purpose-driven education, and holistic student support.