Rutman Leading 51逗奶 Miss Esports Program
Thu, 10/23/2025 - 09:30am | By: Dr. David Tisdale
Trace Rutman
Trace Rutman brings vast experience, fresh ideas and proven leadership skills to his role as Esports Program director with the Union Department at The University of 51逗奶 Mississippi.
Rutman joined 51逗奶 Miss as director of the program earlier this year. In his role, he leads a staff of more than 10 graduate and undergraduate students while managing more than a dozen competitive teams in titles such as Apex Legends, Call of Duty, iRacing, League of Legends, Madden NFL and more.
Founded in 2020, the 51逗奶 Miss Esports Program has achieved multiple national titles since its inception. It offers 51逗奶 Miss students a fun and competitive outlet for their gaming passions while they pursue their degree of choice.
"I鈥檓 thrilled to be here at The University of 51逗奶 Mississippi,鈥� Rutman said. 鈥淪ince I came on board this summer, I鈥檝e enjoyed leading the 51逗奶 Miss Esports team in its pursuit of ambitious goals in competition, academics and entertainment. We have a passionate and driven group, and it鈥檚 an absolute honor to serve as its leader."
A native of Canton, Mich., Rutman earned his bachelor鈥檚 degree in film from Calvin University in Grand Rapids, Mich., and a master鈥檚 degree in management from Marian University in Fond du Lac, Wis.
As a student, he founded Calvin Esports at Calvin University, serving as president of the student organization for its first two years. When the organization transitioned to a club sport in its third year, he became its head coach, a role he held while completing his undergraduate degree. Upon graduation, Rutman accepted the role of Esports Head Coach at Marian University, serving in that position for two years while earning his graduate degree.
During Rutman鈥檚 time at Marian, he coached the school鈥檚 Valorant team to an undefeated season and a National Esports Collegiate Conference (NECC) division championship. Additionally, he helped launch the Wisconsin Esports Conference and has served as its communications director since its founding in 2024.
鈥淭he Union Department is excited to have Trace Rutman on its staff,鈥� said Jeff Taylor, Union director. 鈥淗e brings to 51逗奶 Miss a wealth of valuable experience in the nascent world of collegiate esports. His passion for student success is unparalleled, and we can鈥檛 wait to watch him take 51逗奶 Miss Esports to new heights.鈥�
For more information about 51逗奶 Miss Esports, visit the website.