Texas Tech, Lubbock Christian Compete in Esports Charity Battle

Battle of 806 event raises funds for Children's Miracle Network Hospitals

Published on Mar. 8, 2026

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Texas Tech University and Lubbock Christian University faced off in an esports competition called the Battle of 806, which featured popular games like Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, Rocket League, and Valorant. The event, hosted by the Tech Esports Association and Lubbock Christian University Esports, raised money for Children's Miracle Network Hospitals through fundraising donations and pediatric awareness.

Why it matters

The growing popularity of esports in higher education is creating new opportunities for students to get involved in gaming communities, build relationships, and gain experience in areas like event production and broadcasting. This event highlights how universities are embracing esports and using it to support charitable causes.

The details

The Battle of 806 competition featured several rounds of gameplay, with Lubbock Christian University ultimately taking home the trophy after sweeping the competition. MVP honors were awarded to standout players from each team, including Thomas Lawerence ('Gelato') from Texas Tech and Carson Brown from Lubbock Christian. The event also included a panel discussion with esports directors and figures, as well as an announcement from Texas Tech's College of Media and Communication about a new esports minor program starting in the fall.

  • The Battle of 806 event took place on March 7, 2026.
  • Texas Tech plans to introduce a new esports minor program starting in the fall semester.

The players

Texas Tech Esports Association

The student organization that co-hosted the Battle of 806 event.

Lubbock Christian University Esports

The esports program at Lubbock Christian University that co-hosted the Battle of 806 event.

Thomas Lawerence ('Gelato')

The MVP player from the Texas Tech esports team.

Carson Brown

The MVP player from the Lubbock Christian University esports team.

Lawrence Schovanec

The president of Texas Tech University who spoke about the growing importance of esports in higher education.

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What they’re saying

“It is great considering our school has a lot of talented players. We were competing today against a lot of powerful players from all over so it means a lot to be named MVP at today's competition.”

— Carson Brown (dailytoreador.com)

“Esports is more than just a game. It is about teamwork, quick decision making and building relationships with people who share similar interests.”

— Lawrence Schovanec, Texas Tech University President (dailytoreador.com)

“Around 85 percent of college students play video games. Esports can also bring students into a community where they build relationships and gain experience in things like event production and broadcasting.”

— Megan Condis, Director of esports events and outreach at Texas Tech (dailytoreador.com)

What’s next

Texas Tech plans to continue expanding its involvement in esports and related academic programs, including the introduction of a new esports minor starting in the fall semester.

The takeaway

This event highlights how universities are embracing the growing popularity of esports and using it to support charitable causes, build community, and provide new opportunities for students to get involved in gaming and event production.