Waco selected to host Collegiate Esports Commissioner’s Cup May Madness 2026
WACO, Texas (KWTX) - Waco has been selected to host the Collegiate Esports Commissioner’s Cup (CECC) May Madness 2026, the largest collegiate esports championship in North America, from May 1-3, according to the Texas Scholastic Esports Federation (TexSEF).
The sixth official championship will host over 2,000 student-athletes, dozens of major conferences and fans from across the country to fill the Waco Convention Center for the three-day festival, according to TexSEF.
“This is a major win for our city and a chance to showcase everything that makes Waco an incredible destination for big events,” TexSEF said.
“From top-tier esports action to cosplay, creators, panels, and a full festival atmosphere, the championship weekend will bring an incredible surge of energy and national attention.”
Top teams and student-athletes will compete for CECC National Championship titles in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, Rocket League, Overwatch, VALORANT, NBA 2K, and more, according to the Collegiate Sports Management Group (CSMG).
The event kicks off on April 30 at Baylor University’s McLane Stadium with the ‘Thursday Night Lights’ Opening Ceremony, according to CSMG.
“The growth we’re seeing—across conferences, universities, and student participation—shows just how fast scholastic esports is accelerating,” said Angela Bernhard Thomas, Chief Esports Officer at CSMG.
“Esports and gaming have become recruitment engines, retention drivers, and a direct line to the next generation. CECC May Madness gives conferences a national stage to showcase their talent and embrace esports as a nationally recognized part of the modern collegiate athletics landscape.”
After three years in Arlington, CECC May Madness 2026 will be held in the Waco Convention Center, a 144,000-square-foot venue that will transform into a multi-stage esports arena with high-level competition, fan experiences and partner activations, according to CSMG.
“We’re thrilled to welcome CECC May Madness to Waco and build on the event’s roots in Texas,” said Mike Vogelaar, Executive Director of the Greater Waco Sports Commission.
“The event represents not only a growing chapter in collegiate sports, but a significant opportunity to showcase our city as a hub for innovation, community, and next-generation entertainment.”
More information about where to watch the event, how to purchase tickets and more will be released in the coming months here.
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