Will Cox Named New Esports Coach at Baker University

BALDWIN CITY, Kan. – On Friday, Baker University Athletic Director Susan Decker announced the hiring of Will Cox as the next Esports coach at Baker University.

"I am pleased to announce the hiring of Will Cox as the next head coach of the Baker Esports program," Decker said. "Will was part of the inaugural Esports team and is a well-respected player in the gaming community. Will's love of Baker and his knowledge, drive and enthusiasm will continue to take this program to new heights."

Will spent three years at Osceola High School in Kissimmee, Fla., before finishing high school at City of Life Christian Academy. Cox then travelled to Baldwin City, Kan., to attend Baker University. While at Baker, Cox has played football and is a two-time Heart of America All-Conference honoree.

Along with playing football, Cox was part of the inaugural Esports team in 2019 as part of the Rocket League team. Although Cox competed on the Rocket League team, he also has experience playing other games that Baker offers including Valorant and Overwatch.

Will Cox just recently finished his degree in Mass Media at Baker University and is now pursuing a master's degree in Sports Management.

"I'm excited to start this new journey in my life by becoming the Esports coach," coach Cox said. "I've always loved video games and thanks to Baker University, I will be able to share my passion in a like-minded space. This is something I only ever dreamt of and I am extremely ready to kick the season off."

The Baker Esports team started competing in the fall of 2019, joining the National Association of Collegiate Esports (NACE). At the time, Baker was the eighth school in the state of Kansas to join the organization. Other organizations within Kansas include Kansas Wesleyan University, McPherson College, University of Saint Mary, Pratt Community College, Wichita State University, Central Christian College of Kansas, and Ottawa University.

Baker was also the sixth school within the Heart of America Athletic Conference to add eSports, joining, Central Methodist University, Clarke University, Culver-Stockton College, Grand View University and Missouri Valley College.

In just their first three seasons, the Baker Esports team has already made themselves known across the country. In November of 2020, the Wildcats had Carson Fitzgerald named the National Association of Esports Coaches and Directors Player of the Month. This past fall, the Wildcats also finished in first place during the regular season in both Rocket League and Overwatch and advanced into the NECC Playoffs.

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