Program Policies

Mission

To provide an elite platform for student-athletes to compete at the highest level while receiving a world-class education. We are committed to developing well-rounded individuals who excel in both competition and academics, with the goal of preparing our student-athletes for a successful career both inside and outside of esports.

Vision

To be a leading program that inspires and empowers student-athletes to reach their fullest potential. We envision a community where our athletes are equipped with the skills, knowledge, and mindset to lead in esports and beyond. Our goal is to create a lasting legacy of well-rounded, successful individuals who are empowered to make meaningful contributions in their future careers.

Values

  • Excellence
    • Strive for the highest standards of performance in both esports and academics, encouraging our student-athletes to continuously grow and excel in all aspects of their lives.
  • Discipline
    • Foster a culture of responsibility, self-motivation, and focus, that enables our student-athletes to achieve their goals both in competition and in their educational pursuits.
  • Integrity
    • Uphold the highest ethical standards, promoting fairness, respect, and honesty in all interactions, both within our program and in the broader community.
  • Collaboration
    • Embrace teamwork, mutual support, and open communication to create an environment where student-athletes and coaches work together towards shared success.
  • Personal Growth
    • Empower our student-athletes to develop not only their skills, but also their character, resilience, and leadership, preparing them for success in all aspects of life.

Expectations

Academics

  • GPA Requirements
    • Esports athletes are expected to maintain a minimum 2.5 GPA to remain in good academic standing.
      • If your GPA drops below a 2.5, you will need to attend weekly study halls and participate in biweekly academic meetings.
      • If your GPA drops below 2.0, you will be placed on academic probation and be ineligible to compete or travel, and may be at risk of losing your scholarship.
  • Full-Time Enrollment
    • Undergraduate students need to take at least 12 credits per semester.
    • Graduate students need to take at least 9 credits per semester.
  • Dropping Classes
    • You need to get approval from your academic advisor and the esports staff before dropping a class.
      • Dropping below full-time status can impact your financial aid and eligibility to compete.

Behavior

  • Respect and Sportsmanship
    • Treat teammates, coaches, professors, opponents, and all others with respect.
    • There is zero tolerance for toxic behavior, including bullying, harassment, hate speech, or derogatory comments.
    • Foster a positive and inclusive environment at all times.
  • Team Mindset
    • Prioritize team goals over individual ones. Support your teammates during both practice and competition.
    • Be open to feedback and use it to grow and improve.
  • Attendance and Communication
    • Be on time and prepared for practices, competitions, meetings, and events.
      • If you are unable to attend, make sure to proactively communicate about your absence.
      • In case of illness or emergency, notify your coaching staff as soon as reasonably possible.
  • Effort and Performance
    • Maintain focus and effort in both practice and competition

Community

  • Culture
    • Support others, especially newcomers. Create a welcoming environment for all, and encourage positive gameplay.
  • Celebrate Diversity
    • Make all players feel welcome, regardless of gender, race, skill level, play style, or experience.
  • Create a Safe Space
    • Report toxic behavior and help keep the community inclusive and supportive.
  • Lead by Example
    • Be a role model. Participate in community events and help build a strong culture.

Facility

  • Treat the equipment in the facility better than you’d treat your own equipment.
  • No food or drinks near any computers or peripherals.
  • Keep your area clean and pick up after yourself.
  • Report all damages or malfunctions to the esports staff.
  • Do not download unauthorized or illegal software, and do not harmfully modify any equipment.
  • Misuse of facility equipment may result in temporary or permanent loss of facility access, as well as financial responsibility for damaged equipment.

Professional Competition

  • Prioritize Collegiate
    • College always comes first during our competitive season.
      • The esports staff may approve exceptions on a case-by-case basis.
  • Competing Beyond College
    • We aim to compete at the amateur and semi-pro level.
      • Athletes are expected to represent Baker College and The Swarm in non-collegiate competitions.
    • If Baker does not field a team for a non-collegiate event, athletes may compete for a pick-up roster as long as it does not conflict with any Baker commitments.

Social Media Guidelines

  • Be Professional
    • Follow all Baker College social media and conduct policies.
    • Keep your posts positive and respectful, what you say reflects on the program.
  • Avoid Controversy
    • Do not intentionally post inflammatory content to stir up drama.
    • Do not engage with offensive, discriminatory, or inappropriate content.
  • Share the Good Stuff
    • Celebrate team wins and successes, academic achievements, and community impact. Help build a positive reputation for our esports program.

Representation

  • Be a Proud Representative
    • Your actions directly reflect not only on yourself, but on our team, our college, and the broader esports community.
    • Be professional in interviews, livestreams, and in public appearances.
      • Wear team apparel and use team logos where appropriate, and follow our brand guidelines.