Illinois High School Esports Association
Northern Illinois University is home to the Illinois High School Esports Association (IHSEA) state finals! NIU Esports will host seven of IHSEA’s state finals throughout the 2023-2024 academic year.
The IHSEA endeavors to create and foster competitive esports programs in all Illinois high schools by providing assistance, organizing tournaments, and presenting information to schools and advisers. These programs cultivate talents in potentially underserved populations and provide a pathway to college scholarships and careers in the gaming industry.
High School esports athletes will have the chance to play in the NIU Esports Arena, speak with our players and staff, and get a taste of the world of collegiate esports. Both parties are eager to witness the talent, sportsmanship, and passion for esports that these players and programs possess.
Learn more about the IHSEA.
Upcoming IHSEA Finals at NIU
Information For Spectators
Spectators are welcome for all IHSEA tournaments at NIU. We encourage you to come cheer for your team!
- In the arena: There’s some limited spectator space in the NIU Esports Arena in Altgeld 100.
- In the ballroom spectator gallery: If the arena is full, don’t worry! Upstairs in the Altgeld Hall Ballroom (Room 200), we offer a dedicated spectator area. Games will be livestreamed on the ballroom’s projector, with room for hundreds of people to watch.
Parking
Parking is free in most NIU lots on Saturdays and Sundays. Check out the NIU interactive parking map to find options near Altgeld Hall. Lot 3, Lot 4, Lot 14, and Lot E are all good options. Passenger drop off and accessible parking are available in the circle in front of Altgeld Hall.
Dining
Most of the dining options on campus are closed on weekends, but rest assured! There are many great places to eat near campus. Check out this map for some of the restaurants and fast food close to campus.