Coach Stephen Peterson Now Leading EDGE Esports with 20+ Years of Esports Mastery
We’re thrilled to introduce Stephen Peterson, our new Gaming Coach at EDGE Esports! Peterson brings more than twenty years of competitive gaming and esports expertise to the team.
Coach peterson’s Credentials
- Current Head Coach of the Texas A&M University–Kingsville Esports Program
- Previous Basketball and Esports Coach at Tuloso-Midway ISD
- Previous Media Director for the PBA Tour on Fox Television
- Retired Professional Esports Player [Gamertag: Solarith]
Building Champions at Texas A&M University–and now at EDGE Esports
As Head Coach of the esports program at Texas A&M University–Kingsville, Peterson has built a thriving, sustainable esports culture in South Texas. He oversees player development, team strategies across multiple games, tournament organization, and competitive scheduling.
More importantly, he helps student-athletes turn their gaming passion into real-world skills: leadership, discipline, teamwork, and resilience.
His efforts have boosted collegiate esports visibility in the region and forged strong connections between campus life, local communities, and competitive play.
Texas A&M University Kingsville Fall Expo Tournament
A Veteran of the Esports Evolution
Active since 2005, Peterson has been at the heart of esports’ incredible growth, from humble LAN parties to today’s massive collegiate and professional scenes. His competitive journey includes iconic titles like Halo, Call of Duty, and World of Warcraft.
He’s competed as a professional esports player in major circuits such as Major League Gaming (MLG), UMG Gaming, and the Halo Championship Series (HCS), among others, giving him deep insights into high-stakes competition, strategy, and the mental demands of the stage.
Peterson was a fixture in the early console FPS esports scene, earning recognition among peers still to this day. He competed under the gamertag of Solarith and was associated with several teams including Triggers Down, VvV, Turning Point, & many others.
Teammates included Cody Brock [JuicyFruit], Brett Leonard [Naded], Tyler Blevins [Ninja], Ryan Kidd [Rage], Justin Mann [SK], Anthony Rooks [Twezo], and many other noted professional players.
Pro esports career
A Unique Holistic Coaching Approach
What truly sets Coach Peterson apart? His experience isn’t limited to esports, he’s coached traditional sports at middle and high school levels and still works with youth athletes today.
This cross-disciplinary background shapes his philosophy: blending esports tactics with timeless principles like communication, accountability, and mental toughness.
Whether guiding elite pros or nurturing newcomers, Peterson creates inclusive, structured environments focused on long-term growth, adaptability, and strong team dynamics.
Texas High school Esports State Championships | Baylor University
Welcome to EDGE Esports, Coach!
With decades of experience, cross-sport insights, and a genuine passion for player development, Coach Stephen Peterson is the perfect leader to help our athletes thrive in the fast-evolving world of esports.
Welcome to the team, Coach! We’re excited to see the impact you’ll make giving our players the EDGE they deserve!
Want to join the team under Coach Peterson?
Learn about TRYOUTS here.
The EDGE Esports Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization serving students ages 12-18 who attend a public school, private school, charter school, or homeschool within the Coastal Bend area.