Carlow University Department of Athletics hired Carl Zappa III as the inaugural esports head coach for the 2023-24 season. Zappa, who has been a long-time Associate Head Coach with Carlow’s men’s and women’s soccer programs, was chosen from a pool of candidates looking to make history with the launch of the Celtics esports team.

“I’m very excited to be a key part of building and launching our esports program and the inaugural team. The support from academics and athletics has been integral in getting the facility built, the major launched and the team prepared to compete,” Zappa said.

Coach Zappa already has experience building an athletics program from the ground up at Carlow. Zappa was part of the inaugural men’s soccer coaching staff in 2016 and will continue serving on the staff for the soccer programs.

“To be able to break ground with two different athletic programs at Carlow has been a treat. There is an extra element of excitement with the athletes on a brand-new team. The athletes will be making Carlow history from day one and will have an active role in building the culture of the program and forging the team’s legacy," Zappa added.