USM Esports Partners with Bye Blue Light on Gaming Eyewear

Thu, 10/12/2023 - 08:42am | By: Van Arnold

The Esports program at The University of Southern Mississippi (USM) has joined with Bye Blue Light, the industry leader in eyewear protection for gamers, in a partnership that aims to prioritize the health and well-being of esports athletes, while enhancing their gaming experiences.

Bye Blue Light's cutting-edge eyewear protection technology helps reduce the harmful effects of blue light radiation, ensuring that gamers can compete safely and comfortably during long gaming sessions.

“This partnership is significant to Southern Miss Esports, because it adds to our program identity of prioritizing student health and wellness,” said David Dickert, USM Esports Coordinator. “Bye Blue Light glasses will help students avoid the eye strain of extensive technology use and provide a stylish option for blue light glasses.”

Esports at USM is a dynamic program designed to foster a sense of community and competition while promoting healthy gaming practices. The initiative focuses on competitive esports teams representing the university in intercollegiate competitions. It aims to develop well-rounded individuals through competitive experiences and prepares students for post-graduation with industry training in their chosen fields.

"We're excited to see another prestigious university taking the initiative to protect their players with customized Bye Blue Light frames,” said Brian Bumpus, Bye Blue Light Chief Operating Officer. “Health and wellness are our top priorities, and working with David and USM has been a pleasure. Organizations like this, which prioritize player protection, are fantastic to see.”

The USM esports program currently competes in prestigious conferences such as the National Association of Collegiate Esports (NACE), ECAC Esports and the National Esports Competition Conference (NECC). Membership in the program is open to all University of Southern Mississippi students, with various levels of student engagement available:

1. Signed Student-Athletes - Official Teams: These are students who have signed as student-athletes to compete in official conferences like NACE, ECAC and NECC.
2. Academy Teams: Students in this category are not signed as student-athletes but compete in official conferences as developing teams. This is open to all students who want to compete regardless of skill level.
3. Gaming Club Members: This community is open to all gamers, offering fun events, conventions, and multi-club collaborations with a gaming twist.