SHEYBOYGAN (WGBA) -- Packers all-time leading rusher Ahman Green was introduced Wednesday as the head coach of Lakeland University's brand new E-Sports program.
The 42-year-old Green will lead the video game competition when it launches next fall.
"Just as much as I love football, I love playing video games," Green said Wednesday. "Just like people that love to hunt, that love to fish, that like to do activities and hobbies... that was my hobby."
Green said he has spent time with professional Madden NFL players, and has found professional gaming and professional football aren't that different.
"They spent their weeks before a tournament... they spent eight hours training," he said. "Learning coverages, learning to adjust their linebackers and their safeties just like we would do on the traditional field."
Green's first order of business if fitting, given his background. He's putting an emphasis on physical fitness.
"I'm not trying to scare the gamers at all," he laughed. "I just want to show them how to work out. How to stretch.
"I don't need fast (gamers)," he said. "I need quick reflexes."
The potential gamers are on board with the footballer's fitness plan.
"You have to be fit in order to think properly," said Robert Xiong, a sophomore at Lakeland. "I'm excited about doing some training in the gym."
And even more excited to have a famous coach launching the program.
"I love the Packers and I used to watch them all the time," Xiong said. "For him to be here. The all time rusher... I'm speechless. The all-time rusher here at Lakeland."
The Lakeland E-Sports program will launch next fall. It's one of more than 150 schools competing in the National Association of College E-Sports.
