Set to become a billion-dollar industry by the end of 2021, esports has come a long way from its modest roots in small-scale gaming competitions. But as esports continues its meteoric growth, our partners at Generation Esports are taking esports beyond the arena and into the community.
Based in Kansas City, Generation Esports commands the High School Esports League (HSEL) and Middle School Esports League (MSEL), which connect underserved students to the gaming industry through extracurricular esports programs. The organization also runs leagues for junior colleges and parks and rec centers across the country. The programs are designed to foster teamwork skills, encourage new friendships and introduce students to professional pathways in the gaming industry.
When we recently partnered with Generation Esports, we knew their strength was in their story. Not only were they raising the reputation of esports as a legitimate varsity school sport – they were connecting students to potentially life-changing opportunities.
On Saturday, Aug. 14, Generation Esports kicked off their partnership with Kansas City’s professional esports team, the KC Pioneers, and it was our job to get the word out. We leveraged our established media contacts to reach all the relevant verticals, including esports, gaming, business and technology. We also capitalized on the story’s local impact by targeting Kansas City print and online media.
Our pitching efforts resulted in a heartfelt feature with Flatland, Kansas City PBS’ digital magazine. The news story featured current members of the KC Pioneers and Generation Esports’ director of programs and partnerships, Nehemiah Odior. Each shared about how esports has changed their lives for the better, countering the negative stereotypes that paint gaming as a mindless, unhealthy addiction.
“You need coaches, you need a team, you have a team dynamic, you do things mostly in person,” said Nehemiah Odior to Flatland. “You’re not really sitting in a dark room, just playing by yourself and wearing a hoodie. That perception isn’t really realistic anymore.”
As competitive esports continues to expand, be sure to keep an eye on Generation Esports. We are so excited to support their mission to raise the next class of esports professionals.