Independence Community College hosted an open house and ribbon cutting yesterday for its brand-new, state-of-the-art Esports Arena.

Plenty of students, ICC faculty, and members of the community showed out for the ribbon cutting early Tuesday afternoon. Attendees were given a brief tour of the various facilities. Director of Esports Chris Kumke said the program has the potential to bring in students who wouldn't otherwise attend the college.

Those students have made an immediate impact. Despite being founded only this academic year, the team has already seen a large level of success. The team's Call of Duty squad won the NACE (National Association of Collegiate Esports) Starleague Grand Finals last December. Freshman Paul Solano, who was part of that team, said their drive to improve was their greatest strength.

The facility is open to the public from 12PM to 12AM. It features 21 gaming stations for students, three public flatscreens for gaming, and a driving/flight simulator.