Ball State University welcomed back alumnus David Letterman on Wednesday, as his INDYCAR team announced an esports partnership with the university.  IPR’s Jacob Hale reports.

“What do you think these scholarships are going do for some of these kids?” asked a reporter.

David Letterman, bringing his signature sense of humor, replied, “Beer money, probably.”

Letterman returned to campus to celebrate a partnership between his racing team, Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing, and Ball State’s Esports program.

Ball State President Geoffery Mearns says that the investment in the esports brings students together

“So, this investment that we’ve made in this facility is producing a great return already.  It’s bringing students together from different disciplines; not just students that want to compete as esports athletes, but also students who want to be involved in broadcasting or media design or business.”

The partnership brings with it the Rahal Letterman Lanigan Scholarship: a four year, $5,000 award  provided to two members of Ball State Universities esports team.

Esports Varsity Coach Blake Hall says the scholarship sends a message to the esports athletes

“I mean it’s just awesome to see support to our program as a whole, no matter what form it is. But it’s just great that students are going be able to come here, be able to get help financially with their schooling, but also be able to compete at a level they want to.”

The scholarship begins during the Fall 2022 semester, however the deadline for applications is March 15. The sole prerequisite is that the applicant have some experience in either simulation racing or real-life racing.