With a career journey spanning traditional sports and esports, Brandon Parramore’s leadership philosophy prioritizes personal connections, community growth, and fostering a team-first mentality at Florida Southern College.
From his days as a collegiate swimmer to his current role as the Esports Director at Florida Southern College, Parramore has brought a unique blend of traditional sports discipline and innovative thinking to the burgeoning world of esports.
“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.
From Swimming to Esports: A Bold Transition
Parramore’s career trajectory is anything but conventional. He began as a swimming coach after a successful collegiate swimming career, having competed at Division II level for all four years.
“I actually started as a swim coach. I was a collegiate swimmer,” Parramore recalls, indicating that sports have always been a significant part of his life.
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,” he explains.
“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.”
Photo by Melanie DePriester
Building a Community Beyond Gaming
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.
The most recent volunteering event that Parramore urges his players to go to is the Polk County Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s.
One notable initiative of expanding beyond the gaming 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,” he explains.
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.
Leadership Philosophy: Everyone is Important
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,” he 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.”
Parramore’s commitment to fostering a positive environment also includes addressing team conflicts directly and constructively. “The biggest thing is to hear both sides before making any assumptions,” he says.
Whether resolving interpersonal disagreements or addressing toxic behavior, his focus is on teaching students skills that will serve them in life beyond esports.
Measuring Success Beyond Wins
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.”
His belief in hard work is another foundational principle. “You can’t put in a mediocre effort and expect rewards,” Parramore says. “It’s a lesson I try to instill because it’s critical for life after college.”
Overcoming Challenges and Looking Ahead
Adapting to the unique culture of esports has been one of Parramore’s greatest challenges. “In traditional sports, hard work is often more visible. In esports, the results are in wins and losses, but you have to dig deeper to see the effort behind the scenes,” he reflects.
Despite these challenges, Parramore remains optimistic about the future. His long-term goals include expanding the team to over 30 members, diversifying the program’s reach, and fostering connections with local schools to nurture the next generation of esports talent.
“I want our program to grow beyond the campus,” he says, envisioning a future where Florida Southern’s esports team serves as a model for community engagement and excellence.
A Home Away from Home
For Parramore, Florida Southern is more than a workplace—it’s home. “I love it here. It’s two hours from my parents, and family is important to me,” he shares. While he’s open to future opportunities, his focus remains on building a legacy at Florida Southern.
The Lasting Impact of Leadership
As Parramore reflects on his leadership journey, one thing remains clear: his dedication to helping students succeed. “I’m their biggest stepping stone,” he says. “My program prepares them for the next part of life, teaching them lessons they’ll carry forward.”