Naperville parks employee recognized for esports program

A Naperville Park District staff member has been recognized for introducing esports to his organization and helping more than 30 other agencies with their initiatives.

Information Technology Director Omar Sandoval received the Technology Innovation Award in the leadership category this week during a Special Districts Summit in Chicago, park district officials said.

Getting a new esports program up and running during the pandemic was a "team effort," Sandoval said, pointing to a partnership with GGLeagues to set up an introductory Rocket League game during the stay-at-home order in the spring. Participants of all ages were then able to engage from home, he said.

During conference calls with other agencies, Sandoval and other Naperville parks employees offered guidance on how to launch esports opportunities in their own communities, officials said. Naperville's program has since been expanded to include Madden20 and FIFA tournaments.