Maryville University Shutters Overwatch 2 Team

After eight years of competitive play, Maryville University in Town and Country, Missouri, has put an end to it’s Overwatch 2 team. 

This comes after the city council granted the University of North Florida $3 million for an esports arena just last month. 

Maryville’s X Statement 

On X, Maryville’s esports program released a statement from Daniel Clerke, the program's Director of Esports at Maryville University. 

“We want to be clear: this is not a budget cut. It is a strategic decision that we’ve come to internally over the past couple of years.

“Each season brings new uncertainty to the collegiate Overwatch landscape. In recent years, there has been a lack of clarity around the start of the OWCC spring season; this year, it was cancelled entirely.”

It then explained that the current roster was set to graduate in two years, and they’ll continue to honor the scholarships given and support the players in the event that they wanted to transfer to another school. 

“Finally, we want to recognize and than the incredible Overwatch players have contributed to the success of our program over the past eight years. From national championships to lifelong memories… thank you, from the bottom of our hearts. 

Maryville Asked About Marvel Rivals Program

On X, Maryville was asked by Vodible, the host of the Rivals & Rants, a Marvel Rivals Esports podcast, about the potential for a Marvel Rivals program.

“Sad to see for the Overwatch program. Is there potential for y'all to start a marvel rivals one in its place?” Vodible asked. 

Maryville gave a lengthy reply, saying: 

“No current plans for Rivals. It depends on publisher support and other things. 

“With games like Deadlock, Rematch, and unannounced titles on the horizon we want to be flexible to make the right choice. 

“If we commit to a game we are committing to students for four years and want time to evaluate the landscape.”

Maryville was also asked about the program returning to Overwatch one day, to which it replied, “There is potential!” 

Daniel Clerke Provides Comment

Clerke also made a post on X, quoting the original announcement, which read: 

“A lot of players DMing me and pitching me on entering new titles.

“We will not be making any moves into new titles for the next 1-3 years. With Deadlock, Rematch, potentially a new smash, and other promising unannounced titles, we are going to take our time to ensure we are entering a title that has proper support. 

“We appreciate the interest, but a Maryville commitment to new students/titles is a four year commitment and for that, we have to be sure.”