Bio

Mike Vanderpool became the Esports head coach in July 2025. In addition to his role overseeing the multiple gaming teams, he has also an assistant professor of design at Defiance College since Fall 2024.

Prior to DC, Vanderpool spent seven years at Northwest State Community College and was part of launching their Esports program. He oversaw the design of the gaming space as part of the program's launch and also helped bring Game Con to campus in 2019, which continues to draw gamers and creatives to Northwest Ohio. 

Vanderpool has a vision for DC Esports that extends beyond the competitive arena with a desire to see each student make real-world connections through their experience on the Esports team. “Esports is so much more than just playing games," he says. "It’s a launchpad for real-world skills and career development. Being part of an esports program means learning how to work as a team under pressure, developing leadership skills, and mastering communication in high-stakes situations. But it doesn’t stop there. Our students will also get hands-on experience in event management, content creation, marketing, live streaming, media production, and strategic development. These are skills that translate directly into industries like sports management, broadcasting, design, and business.”