Last spring, Bowdoin computer science majors Will Jorgensen ’24 and William Warlick ’24 embarked on what would become a transformative project: introducing fantasy sports to the NESCAC. Their vision was to create a platform where NESCAC football fans could delve into the thrilling world of fantasy football.
The idea came about last fall, when the pair lived in an apartment next to the football field. “We noticed the strong interest, particularly from parents and alumni, with fans of visiting teams driving to watch the games,” Jorgensen said. What started as just a concept then started to take shape over the subsequent months.
For Jorgensen, fantasy football is entirely new. With his sole experience in fantasy sports being Fantasy NASCAR, the project posed a significant learning challenge. “Given my limited background, there was a steep learning curve. I got advice from friends that play a lot of Fantasy,” he said.
Technical hurdles went beyond just the game’s structure. Both Warlick and Jorgensen had to learn to run a web server, manage databases and ensure robust data security on the fly.
The app, now resonating in the NESCAC community, is designed with the unique attributes of NESCAC football in mind. It facilitates the drafting of a 16-man roster and incorporates traditional features like waivers and trades. Adjustments had to be made to accommodate the 10-team NESCAC format, such as capping leagues at eight players to account for the much smaller player pool than traditional fantasy football and introducing individual defensive player drafts instead of team defenses.
Their Instagram, @fantasynescac, stands as evidence of the traction they’re gaining. As Warlick pointed out, “The growing community on our Instagram shows us that there is a lot of anticipation.” Moreover, the development journey was interspersed with unexpected collaborations. “We began receiving outreach from diehard NESCAC football fans interested in helping out as analysts,”
Warlick explained, highlighting a particularly notable mock draft from Bowdoin student Sam Angevine ’24.
The platform gears up for its full-scale launch, with the draft feature set to roll out this week as the teams finalize their roster announcements. A specially designed player rating algorithm ensures fairness, drawing from previous performance data to aid users in their drafting decisions.
Feedback from the NESCAC community has been overwhelmingly positive. Messages brimming with enthusiasm, curiosity and valuable insights have underscored the app’s potential. Yet, both Jorgensen and Warlick have realistic expectations.
“While we’re hopeful, there’s always the possibility that the user uptake might not be super high in the first season. This project has been a great learning experience,” Jorgensen reflected. Those who are interested in learning more about Fantasy NESCAC and starting a league can do so at fantasynescac.com
