10/02/2025
A gamer with big momentum! University of Alaska Fairbanks “League of Legends” varsity team captain Tucker Johnson has some bonus loot after recently being awarded the $5,000 GCI Esports Scholarship. Johnson was recognized for his leadership, dedication and ability to elevate those around him. The award highlights not only his competitive skill but also the way he balances academics with athletics while helping build a stronger esports community at UAF.
Johnson said UAF’s dedicated Alaska Esports facility has been key to that growth. Practicing in person helps his team overcome the limitations of online play, sharpen strategies and connect with other varsity squads. The facility also eliminates common at-home issues such as unstable connections or faulty setups, allowing players to focus fully on competing. GCI’s reliable internet is just as critical, Johnson said that connectivity provides the speed and stability to keep his team competitive.
"I don't have to worry. That's my big thing is consistency, just making sure it doesn't jump. I can work with high ping because I've lived in Alaska my whole life.” When Johnson learned he had received the scholarship, the first person he called was his father, who had helped cover much of his college expenses. Sharing the good news, he said, felt especially meaningful. For him, the award represented more than financial relief.
Growing up in Alaska, Johnson rarely saw opportunities in competitive gaming. Aside from a PC shop in Fairbanks and programs at the Boys and Girls Club, there were few spaces dedicated to esports. A facility and scholarship program once felt unimaginable. Now, he says, it's encouraging to see esports gaining momentum in the state. “It's nice to know that you can get scholarships for esports up here in Alaska. There are segues to play competitively, and you can actually see benefits from it, at least within Alaska, which I feel a lot of people might not think that.”
