GORHAM — Town & Country Federal Credit Union and the University of Southern Maine have officially opened the Collab: ESPORTS Arena by Town & Country — a state-of-the-art competitive gaming space on USM’s Gorham campus that blends technology, creativity and community in an exciting new way.
A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held on Monday, Sept. 22 where university officials, Town & Country leadership, students and local gaming enthusiasts came together to mark the occasion. The new arena represents USM’s continued investment in digital learning environments while reflecting Town & Country’s broader commitment to innovation and connection.
“For decades, we’ve supported education because we know it’s the foundation for stronger communities. Our partnership with USM is a natural extension of that commitment. We’re not just supporting esports — we’re supporting opportunity, creativity, and the future of these students,” explained David Libby, president and CEO of Town & Country.
The Collab: ESPORTS Arena by Town & Country is outfitted with top-tier gaming computers, high-speed connectivity, ergonomic setups, and streaming capabilities. Designed with input from students and USM leadership, the arena will serve as a home for USM’s esports teams and student gaming clubs and will host tournaments, workshops and community events. Esports is the largest student club on campus, a feat accomplished in under two years since it was formed.
The arena is also a key part of Collab by Town & Country — a new initiative created by the credit union to spark ideas, foster innovation, and strengthen community connections. Through Collab, Town & Country is creating spaces — both physical and virtual—where people can learn, share, and work together on solutions that make a difference. The ESPORTS Arena is one of the first major projects under the Collab umbrella, with more initiatives to follow.
“Esports has quickly become one of the most popular and exciting Club activities on our campus,” said Dr. Jacqueline Edmondson, president of the University of Southern Maine. “The Collab: Esports Arena by Town & Country FCU will be more than a place to play. It’s a place where students will build friendships, strengthen a sense of belonging, and develop skills that employers are looking for in Maine’s growing digital economy. We are deeply grateful to Town & Country for making this possible.”
As part of the partnership, Town & Country and Collab by Town & Country will also provide financial education programming and other opportunities for students involved in esports and gaming — further connecting this high-energy space to real-world skills and career readiness.
“Esports isn’t just about gaming. It’s about strategy. Communication. Leadership. Teamwork. A sense of belonging. These are the real wins, and they are exactly the skills students need to succeed in today’s world. We are thrilled to be the founding sponsor of the Collab: ESPORTS Arena by Town & Country, a space that’s a platform to grow,” added Libby.
The arena is now open and will be fully operational for the fall semester, with events, tournaments and programming planned throughout the academic year.
For more information about Town & Country Federal Credit Union, please visit https://www.tcfcu.com/.
For more information about Collab by Town & Country FCU, please visit https://www.collab.org.
For more information about the USM Foundation, please visit https://usm.maine.edu/foundation/.
For more information about the USM Esports program, please visit https://usm.maine.edu/recreation/esports-program/.
