The World Esports Association (“WESA“) has announced that OpTic Gaming has joined as a member of the association and FaZe Clan is a full member once more.
FaZe Clan were one of the founding members of WESA but left after a few weeks. There was much debate as to why and it was reported that a key reason was a demand for exclusivity with ESL. You can read the IGN story here.
“We are honored that OpTic Gaming, one of the most popular esports teams in the world with a massive social following and fan base, has elected to join WESA. We are also pleased that FaZe Clan will remain as a Member of our organisation,” commented Ken Hershman, Executive Chairman and Commissioner, WESA.
He continued: “The recent team additions to WESA demonstrate our continued commitment to bringing the world’s best esports organizations together in order to positively impact professional esports. Having the expertise and professionalism of OpTic Gaming and FaZe Clan as part of WESA will greatly aid us in fulfilling that mission.”
“We share the same vision as WESA and its membership to professionalise the esports industry,” said Hector Rodriguez, Owner, OpTic Gaming. “We look forward to working with the organisation and our fellow Members on advancing the progress that they have already made.”
OpTic Gaming joins ten other esports teams (EnVyUS, FaZe Clan, Fnatic, G2 Esports, mousesports, Natus Vincere, Ninjas in Pyjamas, Renegades, SK Gaming and Virtus.pro), and ESL as members of WESA.
WESA’s aim is to further professionalise esports by introducing elements of player representation, standardised regulations and revenue shares for teams. It seeks to “create predictable schedules for fans, players, organisers and broadcasters, and bring all stakeholders to the discussion table”.
“We’re impressed with WESA’s growth and impact on the industry over the last year. Expanding membership with more North American teams, introducing key regulations and the commitment of member organisations to abide by the changes, and a new Commissioner with a background in the traditional media space really solidified our interest in remaining a part of WESA, “ said Erik Anderson, Manager, FaZe Clan. “FaZe Clan is committed to being an active member of WESA moving forward and growing the esports industry.”
Esports Insider says: After SK Gaming and Renegades joined recently, WESA has now received another boost. A lot of the idea behind WESA rings true in Riot’s recent North American LCS franchising system – but it’s not really applicable to CS:GO. Congratulations to OpTic, FaZe and WESA on the news.
