New era for Kodiaks esports

The Lethbridge Polytechnic Kodiaks are proud to announce a leadership and structure change within the esports program. Former League of Legends coach Nate Johnson has taken on a new role as esports co-ordinator for the Kodiaks. Stepping into the head coach position for the League of Legends team is former esports student-athlete Christopher Marynowski.

“Esports is a constantly evolving world and in order for our programs to remain competitive and keep up with the progressing changes, we are making some as well,” says Todd Caughlin, Kodiaks Athletics director. “Having Nate move into a co-ordinator role allows all three Kodiaks esports teams to stay in the know; and bringing Chris in as coach of the Legends team is another big positive!”

Marynowski has been a key part of the Kodiaks League of Legends roster for the past two seasons. He won the Simulacrum Interactive Inc. Esports Leadership Award and the Outstanding Pillar Award at the KODIs in April – honours that reflect his commitment to teamwork and student leadership. Marynowski is entering his third year in the polytechnic’s Computer Information Technology program.

While this will be his first time leading a full team, he’s no stranger to the coaching scene.

“I’ve coached individuals before, but this is my first time taking on an entire roster,” says Marynowski. “It’s exciting to take on something I’ve never done before and help less experienced players grow and succeed.”

Marynowski says his time as a player shaped how he approaches leadership, adding he wants to focus on supporting the whole team rather than elevating individual stars. He says his hope is to continue developing a competitive, but fun environment.

“I think the more fun you’re having, the better you’ll play,” says Marynowski. “If players enjoy their experience, they’re more likely to stay committed and even recommend the program to others.”

As head coach, Marynowski plans to take a more active role in drafting strategies and game preparation and he says he’s eager to guide the team’s direction while still giving players a voice in their approach.

Supporting him behind the scenes will be Johnson, whose journey from player to coach to co-ordinator gives him a deep understanding of the program’s growth and goals.

“It has been an exciting journey watching Chris grow not just in skill, but in mindset – asking the right questions, stepping up when it mattered, putting the team first and constantly thinking beyond his own role,” says Johnson. “Coach isn't a title Chris is stepping into overnight, it’s a role he has been preparing for all along. I've seen it, I believe in it, and I couldn't be prouder to pass the torch.”

With the transition now in place, the Kodiaks are focused on preparing for the fall season with open tryouts beginning in September.

Kodiaks coaches actively recruit high school athletes around Alberta and neighbouring provinces. If one of the Kodiaks coaches hasn’t spoken to you yet, don’t worry. Simply fill out the recruitment form (gokodiaks.ca/recruitment), and they would be pleased to learn more about you.