An NHL/NHLPA Scholastic Gaming Initiative

PlayVS announced today the launch of Game On: An NHL/NHLPA Scholastic Gaming Initiative, a new program to inspire the next generations of hockey fans.

In partnership with the NHL/NHLPA, the competitive gaming opportunity is funded by the league’s Industry Growth Fund (IGF), with the inaugural launch taking place in three NHL Club markets: New Jersey Devils, Los Angeles Kings and Detroit Red Wings.

The interactive experience is available for participants between the ages of 13 and 21.

High schools can also participate in club-specific activations throughout the Spring season, which will focus on virtual competitions plus in-person events that aim to help develop social connections, digital literacy, and critical thinking skills.

The first event took place in New Jersey back in March, with 40 students and coaches on hand at the Devils Gaming Group Lounge to play EA Sports NHL 25 and interact with team officials and more.

PlayVS is set to host a virtual national EA Sports NHL 25 tournament as a grand finale to the season. From June 13 to 15, players in the U.S. will have the chance to compete for top honors while interacting with peers across the country.

Registration for the tournament will open through PlayVS’ Stadium platform in mid-May.

“Gaming has the power to bring today’s young players together in ways that are both meaningful and lasting,” Jon Chapman, CEO of PlayVS, said in a statement. “Through this partnership with the NHL/NHLPA’s Industry Growth Fund, we’re not only creating new opportunities for players to engage with their favorite sport, but also helping them develop critical life skills–like leadership, communication, and resilience–through healthy competition. We’re excited to continue expanding access to competitive gaming and making esports and gaming a core part of the school experience.”

PlayVS has partnered with USA TODAY High School Sports for the past several years, with the first-ever Super 25 esports rankings going live in 2024.

Since then, competitive esports has grown across North America, and the Game On: An NHL/NHLPA Scholastic Gaming Initiative will look to further those positive progressions.