Keyano College is celebrating the opening of its SMG Esports Arena.

The first-of-its-kind facility in Alberta is the permanent home of the Keyano Huskies E-sports team and regional hub for electronic sports. The arena boasts 26 state-of-the-art computers, three console stations, and accommodates student-athletes and community members during tournaments.

“Esports is a billion-dollar industry that promotes innovation and non-traditional athletics,” said Dr. Jay Notay, President & CEO of Keyano College.

 “We are proud to be one of Canada’s first institutions to offer cutting-edge academic programming and innovative space that promotes the growing industry to Wood Buffalo’s youth.”

Beyond competitions, the arena is open for student drop-ins, birthday parties, and corporate events.

“It is wonderful to see Keyano College at the cutting edge of Esports,” said Laila Goodridge, Member of Parliament for Fort McMurray – Cold Lake.

“This is a value add to the college, its students, and our entire region.”

This space will help attract future student-athletes to our program and provide our Esports team with a competitive advantage among its competition,” said Jonathan Lambert, Director of Athletics & Recreation with Keyano College. 

“Providing premier space to our student-athletes is a core part of our program’s commitment to consistently raising the bar in the classroom and on the court.” 

According to Keyano, the SMG Esports Arena is made possible through support from SMG Builders is also fueled by the generous support of Red Bull.