
Melanie Dipriester
Staff Writer
From his days as a collegiate swimmer to his current role as the Esports Director at Florida Southern College, Brandon Parramore has brought a unique blend of traditional sports discipline and innovative thinking to the burgeoning world of esports. His leadership philosophy prioritizes personal connections, community growth, and fostering a team-first mentality at FSC.
“I believe you should find something to do that you’re happy with. Don’t do something you’re not happy with,” Parramore says, reflecting on his career shift from swim coaching to esports management. This thought process not only guided his personal journey but also influenced his approach to mentoring students and building a thriving esports program.
Parramore’s career trajectory is anything but conventional. Parramore began as a swimming coach after a successful collegiate swimming career, having competed at the Division II level for all four years. However, the early mornings, late nights, and 60-plus hour work weeks of coaching began to take a toll on him.
“I kind of got tired of coaching swimming. It can be mentally and physically draining if you’re not happy with what you’re doing,” Parramore said.
“Esports is a different world,” Parramore admits. Yet, Parramore leverages the lessons learned in traditional sports, emphasizing teamwork and individual growth.
“I try to carry over elements like everyone being part of the team. I want everyone to get along and know each other,” Parramore said.
“Brandon has always made himself available as a resource, clearly outlines his professional standards for us, and at the same time, maintains a cordial and pleasant relationship with his players,” Nicholas Dragowski said, a senior and a member of the League of Legends team.
Parramore’s vision extends far beyond the virtual battlefield. At Florida Southern, he has implemented strategies to ensure the esports program integrates deeply into the broader community.
“I want everyone to participate more, not just in games but within the community,” Parramore explains. Encouraging students to engage with campus events, represent the esports team during tours, and volunteer in local initiatives helps weave the team more deeply into the fabric of the college community.
One of the recent volunteering events he urged his players to attend was the Polk County Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s.
“Brandon encouraged us to do the walk for Alzheimer’s, and it was a lovely experience,” shared Lorna Truett, a sophomore and a member of the League of Legends team. One notable initiative of expanding beyond the FSC community includes his involvement with the Boys and Girls Club, located just a few miles from campus.
“They built a brand-new esports room over there for the kids that come to their after-school program,” Parramore said.
Having a role in this project allows Parramore to shape how esports is integrated into the community, providing local youth with valuable resources and opportunities.
Parramore’s leadership style is deeply personal, shaped by his belief in the inherent value of every team member. “Everyone is important to me, whether you’re a top-ranked player or just starting out,” Parramore emphasizes.

He likens his role to that of a parental figure, especially for students far from home. “When they come to college, I’m the closest thing they have to a parent if they don’t go home. Making sure they know I’m there to take care of them is something I’ve carried over from sports.”
For Parramore, success isn’t just about championships. While the program boasts achievements like titles in Rocket League and League of Legends, he measures success in personal and collective growth.
“I look at growth in terms of improving facilities, increasing opportunities, and even helping students raise their grades,” he shares. “It’s about creating an environment where everyone feels valued and has the chance to excel,” Parramore said.
Throughout Parramore’s time at Florida Southern College, he has helped the students, and the coaches achieve success. “I’ve only known Brandon now for a year, and in that year, it’s been nothing but positives throughout my time at Florida Southern College. Brandon has and continues to give us goals to set for ourselves and to reach. He’s accountable, he’s fair, and has helped me throughout my sophomore and junior years of college,”Jacob Powell said, a junior and a member of the Overwatch team.
“I feel that, as both player and coach, Brandon has given me various opportunities to be a leader in esports. Helping with scheduling with scrimmages and practices and leading a team in discussions are two skill sets that I was able to grow. This not only helps in esports but also in my full-time job as a band director, as many times,” shared Brad Tsubaki a former League of Legends player and the current coach for the team.
His belief in hard work is another foundational principle: “You can’t put in a mediocre effort and expect rewards,” Parramore said. “It’s a lesson I try to instill because it’s critical for life after college.”
As Parramore reflects on his leadership journey, one thing remains clear: his dedication to helping students succeed. “I’m their biggest stepping-stone,” he said.
By equipping participants with essential life lessons and practical skills, he ensures they are well-prepared for the challenges ahead.
“My program prepares them for the next part of life, teaching them lessons they’ll carry forward,” Parramore said.