U.S Soccer, the football federation for the United States of America, has named esports operations company Esports Engine as the official production provider for the eNational Team Closed Finals.
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The collaboration is the first time Esports Engine has joined forces with a sporting federation. In recent months, the company has expanded its UK operations staff, hiring former Gfinity employees Martin Wyatt and Paul Kent as Head of UK Program Operations and Head of UK Production Operations.
The eNational Team Closed Finals, which begins on April 9th, is the conclusion of its nationwide online competition. The winner of the event will represent the U.S eNational Team that will compete in the FIFAe Nations Online Qualifier 2021.
Adam Apicella, Co-Founder and President of Esports Engine, commented on the partnership in a release: “As gaming and sports culture become more intertwined, we see events like the U.S. Soccer eNational Team Finals as unique opportunities to drive engagement amongst current fans, reach new audiences, and grow love of the sport.”
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Esports is an area that isn’t new for U.S Soccer. The federation first launched its search for eNational team representatives in 2019, with the victors taking part in the FIFA eNations Cup.
David Wright, Chief Commercial Officer at US Soccer, spoke on the initiative: “We are excited to open a pathway to the eNational Team for the broader community of players and fans across the United States, while also recognising the commitment and success by those at the top of the FIFA Global Series rankings.
“Esports continues to provide us with an opportunity to connect with new fans and grow interest in the sport of soccer here in the United States. We are looking forward to a thrilling competition and determining our two eNational Team representatives for this year.”
Esports Insider says: US Soccer joining forces with Esports Engine is a solid move. The operations company has a wealth of experience in producing and operating a range of esports events making this collaboration a good deal for all parties involved.