E-Sports

NFL draft at Lambeau showcases esports’ growth in Wisconsin, globally

While NFL draft picks dreamed of future championships, high school senior Joey Diiorio was winning one upstairs in Lambeau Field. While future NFLers heard their names called from the Draft Theater stage, Joey Diiorio cemented his own championship six stories up inside Lambeau Field. Diiorio, a high school senior from New Hampshire, on April 26 […]

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1 month ago

April 29, 2025

Your Sports Nation

While NFL draft picks dreamed of future championships, high school senior Joey Diiorio was winning one upstairs in Lambeau Field.

While future NFLers heard their names called from the Draft Theater stage, Joey Diiorio cemented his own championship six stories up inside Lambeau Field.

Diiorio, a high school senior from New Hampshire, on April 26 won the Madden NFL Youth Championship before an audience of local kids from Special Olympics Wisconsin and northeastern Wisconsin Big Brothers Big Sisters chapters. Like any eSports championship, shoutcaster Adam Thornton provided commentary for the crowd. Organized by PlayVS (spoken as “play versus”) and the NFL, the event drew a surprise visit from Packers CEO Mark Murphy while Packers tackle Rasheed Walker presented Diiorio with the championship trophy and signed autographs for the kids.

Diiorio defeated Chaz McCray, a freshman from Atlanta, in an intense, best-of-three Madden NFL 25 showdown that included all the drama you’d expect in an NFL game. There were fumbles and interceptions, clock-eating drives, two-minute drills, surprise plays, two-point attempts and tactical shifts in play selection.

The big difference? Pro football teams have whole coaching staffs to choose plays and implement in-game adjustments based on their their opponents’ moves. McCray and Diiorio also scan through offensive play calls and defensive schemes in seconds, but they do so entirely on their own.

McCray, playing as the Kansas City Chiefs, won the first game handily before Diiorio, playing as the Baltimore Ravens, eked out a 21-20 win in game two, which was decided on a missed field goal. McCray kept the final match close with a late, blocked field goal with 25 seconds left that shocked both players and the audience. But McCray could not capitalize on the chance to re-take the lead and Diiorio took the title with a 19-13 win.

From Madden to Rocket League, esports has become a multibillion dollar business

Esports continue to grow in popularity each year. Global revenues are expected to approach $5 billion in 2025, and it’s expected to grow rapidly in the years ahead, according to Statista. For comparison, the NFL reported about $23 billion in revenues in its 2024 fiscal year.

It’s not hard to see why it’s expected to grow rapidly when more than 60% of Americans play video games, and 70-80% of younger generations report playing video games for at least one hour per week, the Entertainment Software Association reported in 2024. Respondents said video games provide joy, mental stimulation, relieve stress, improve cognitive skills and bring different types of people together.

Appleton’s Landon Kirkland, 11, started playing Minecraft, but has since found Madden and Fortnite. He likes Madden’s graphics and the fun challenges that he can try over and over again, but is used to playing on a PC, not a PlayStation.

“My dad likes more challenging games like me. My mom doesn’t get it, but they both do a great job trying to listen and understand it,” Kirkland said.

It’s not just sports titles like Madden, either. PlayVS offers high school leagues and tournaments for titles like Rocket League, League of Legends and Super Smash Bros., too. Aaron Kelley, a spokesperson for PlayVS, said esports appeals to a wide range of young people, from high school football players to hardcore gamers. And the activity can also connect them with a variety of career paths, whether it’s as a player, a shoutcaster calling matches, or the more technical aspects of streaming events.

“A lot of these kids don’t do other extracurriculars. It’s their first chance to play for their school,” Kelley said. He later added that esports can often bring teenagers together who might not otherwise hang out.

Diiorio said he was shocked when McCray blocked his late-game field goal attempt to stay alive and offered McCray a shoutout after the event ended.

“Chaz is a freshman in high school. He has a big future in Madden. I’m a senior. I don’t have too much more time playing Madden, Chaz will be great, I promise y’all,” Diiorio said before thanking his parents for their support.

Special opportunity at Lambeau Field for a ‘shoutcaster’ originally from the Green Bay area

The April 26 showdown in the Lambeau Field club level was particularly special for Thornton.

Thornton has been a shoutcaster for 10 years now, but grew up in De Pere before moving to Minnesota. A shoutcaster, for those like this reporter who didn’t know, announces matches, provides color commentary and hypes up the crowd.

Thornton said he wasn’t a popular kid growing up, but found solace, friends and his passion in video games. Now, to be back at Lambeau Field, to have the Packers and NFL recognize how huge esports is, he said brought everything full circle.

“To come back and do something with Lambeau Field, the NFL, the Boys & Girls Clubs and Special Olympics Wisconsin is pretty cool,” Thornton said. “This is a global phenomenon. It’s not going away.”

When he got the chance to interview Mark Murphy for a moment before handing the mic off to the surprise guest, it just added to the moment.

“It goes to show you how much he cares, it shows how much he’s dedicated to it,” Thornton said.

Waupun coach talks benefits to students in short- and long-term

More than 500 high schools across the U.S. have created esports teams to compete in a variety of team games via PlayVS’s platforms and more than 5,200 students represent their high schools in competitions, Kelley said. In Wisconsin, more than 100 school districts have joined the Wisconsin High School Esports Association.

PlayVS often helps schools like Waupun Junior/Senior High School get the consoles, equipment and support they need to start a team.

Pat Bennett, Waupun’s eSports coach and a lifelong gamer, said about 25 students joined the team in its second season, which ended in April. Besides the students loving the chance to compete, he said the program introduces students long-term opportunities like broadcasting, graphic design, match-day management and social media marketing.

“It’s a billion-dollar business, bigger than music and movies, and it’s growing,” Bennett said.

Contact business reporter Jeff Bollier at (920) 431-8387 or jbollier@gannett.com. Follow him on Twitter at @JeffBollier.

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E-Sports

Beloit hosts Esports showcase for teams across the Midwest

BELOIT, WIS. (WIFR) – Organizers of the 2025 Eclipse Scholastic Esports Showcase said it’s the first of its kind event in Wisconsin: Teams gathered from across the Midwest to compete in Beloit Saturday. Esports are becoming one of the fastest growing competitive activities in high schools. Event organizers said Saturday’s event is a milestone in […]

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7 hours ago

June 1, 2025

Your Sports Nation

Esports are becoming one of the fastest growing competitive activities in high schools. Event organizers said Saturday’s event is a milestone in Beloit’s rise as a regional leader in tech, innovation, and the sports gaming industry.

The Esports showcase was powered by Irontek, a coworking community and tech hub, alongside the Milwaukee Esports Alliance, and the Wisconsin High School Esports Association.

The event welcomed teams from Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana, North Dakota, Minnesota, and Michigan, all battling it out to win the title of ‘Midwest’s best.”

Game On: Beloit hosts Esports showcase for teams across the Midwest(WIFR)

“Let’s go see what we can do that really hasn’t been done elsewhere around the state of Wisconsin, and so the answer to that was a showcase of this nature which brings in top talent from those Midwestern states to kind of battle against one another,” said Brandon Tschacher, the president of Milwaukee Esports Alliance.

The showcase features state champions from each of the Midwest states. The players battled in what they are say are two fan favorite games: Rocket League and Super Smash Bros. Ultimate.

“This kind of southern Wisconsin region has been a hot bed actually of scholastic Esports. What it has shown is where investment has been made, results and progress is happening,” explained Tschacher.

The event also welcomed universities so players could meet and interact with schools who can take their gaming to the next level.

Tournament competitor Joseph Watzka said he has been gaming most of his life and has created a rather ‘smashing’ resume in the Esports community.

“I’m the seventh in Wisconsin for PR, I’m the sixth best link in the world,” explained Watzka.

Watzka adds he is excited for the future of Esports, as organizers say it’s one of the fastest growing activities nationwide.

“I’m really excited, I’m really happy for it, I think if a new Smash Brothers comes out it’s going to be really big, and I’m very excited for that, I just hope they don’t butcher my character,” said Watzka.

Organizers say Wisconsin is starting to separate itself nationally as a destination for Esports and giving players the opportunity to grow.

Esports events usually take place in areas like Madison or Milwaukee, but organizers say they hope to have similar events in the Beloit area in the future.

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E-Sports

Dates, times and matchups set for KHSAA softball and baseball tournaments

Several Central Kentucky teams to watch in both competitions LEXINGTON, Ky. (ABC36 NEWS NOW)- Local high school baseball and softball teams know their foes for the 2025 KHSAA State Tournaments in Lexington. Baseball- Kentucky Proud Park | June 5-14 First time 11th Region winners Sayre will play Taylor County from the 5th Region on the […]

Published

10 hours ago

June 1, 2025

Your Sports Nation

Several Central Kentucky teams to watch in both competitions

Kentucky HS board wants preapproval for esports players

LEXINGTON, Ky. (ABC36 NEWS NOW)- Local high school baseball and softball teams know their foes for the 2025 KHSAA State Tournaments in Lexington.

Baseball- Kentucky Proud Park | June 5-14

First time 11th Region winners Sayre will play Taylor County from the 5th Region on the opening day of the tournament in Lexington. First pitch is set for June 5 at 5 p.m.

Boyle County will take on the to-be-determined winners of Region 16 at 1:30 p.m. on the same day. Harrison County plays last on the opening day at 8:30 p.m. versus Wolfe County.

The championship game is on June 14.

Softball- John Cropp Stadium | June 5-14

Scott County, who beat archrivals Great Crossing in the 11th Championship, will play Bullitt East on June 5 at 8:30 p.m. North Laurel faces off against Henderson County on the same day at 10 a.m.

Harrison County also has its softball team heading to Lexington to face off against Holy Cross Covington a day later at 10 a.m.

The title game is on June 14.

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E-Sports

USA TODAY Sports/PlayVS Super 25 esports rankings: Top high school teams since 2019

After a busy national signing day and close to the 2025 spring season, the best of the best high school esports teams step into the spotlight. The all-time Super 25 listed below have dominated in state and regional leagues across on the PlayVS platform since 2019, excelling in games such as “Madden NFL,” “Rocket League,” “League of Legends,” […]

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14 hours ago

May 31, 2025

Your Sports Nation

Championship wins: 7

Runner-up finishes: 1

T-24. Freedom High School (Va.)

Championship wins: 7

Runner-up finishes: 0

T-24. Timpanogos High School (Utah)

Championship wins: 7

Runner-up finishes: 0

T-24. Biloxi High School (Miss.)

Championship wins: 6

Runner-up finishes: 4

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY High School Sports Wire: USA TODAY Sports/PlayVS esports Super 25: All-time rankings

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E-Sports

Hyundai Motor India Limited onboards Pankaj Tripathi as its new Brand Ambassador

Gurugram | May 31, 2025: Hyundai Motor India Limited (HMIL) is proud to announce the onboarding of acclaimed actor Pankaj Tripathi as its new brand ambassador. Known for his versatility and grounded charm, Pankaj Tripathi perfectly embodies HMIL’s values of reliability, authenticity and a deep-rooted connection with India’s diverse audience. This strategic partnership marks a […]

Published

16 hours ago

May 31, 2025

Your Sports Nation

Gurugram | May 31, 2025: Hyundai Motor India Limited (HMIL) is proud to announce the onboarding of acclaimed actor Pankaj Tripathi as its new brand ambassador. Known for his versatility and grounded charm, Pankaj Tripathi perfectly embodies HMIL’s values of reliability, authenticity and a deep-rooted connection with India’s diverse audience. This strategic partnership marks a new chapter in HMIL’s journey to resonate more meaningfully with Indian customers and craft experiences that move with the spirit of India.

With a legacy of innovation and trust, HMIL has long been a household name in India. Onboarding Pankaj Tripathi as part of HMIL family aligns with the brand’s vision of strengthening its emotional connect with the people of India, while also adding a touch of star power. With this association, HMIL further strengthens its ambassador lineup that already includes iconic personalities.

Speaking on the new exciting partnership, Mr. Tarun Garg, Whole-Time Director and Chief Operating Officer, Hyundai Motor India Limited, said, “At HMIL, we celebrate stories of progress and inspiration. We are delighted to welcome Pankaj Tripathi to HMIL family. His grounded persona, exceptional talent and widespread appeal resonate with the values of HMIL and our vision of ‘Progress for Humanity’. Together, we aim to drive deeper emotional connections with our diverse customer base across India.”

Acclaimed actor Mr. Pankaj Tripathi, said, “It is an honour to associate with Hyundai Motor India Limited, a brand that has long stood for trust, innovation and customer-first approach. My first car was a Hyundai, and over the years, that relationship has grown into something truly personal. As someone who deeply values simplicity, sincerity and staying true to one’s roots, I find a natural alignment with HMIL’s ethos. I look forward to this partnership where together, we can connect with people across the country – not just through technology, but through shared stories and values.”

This association promises to add a new dimension to the brand’s narrative, one that speaks not just through machines, but through emotions, honesty and a shared sense of purpose. Pankaj Tripathi brings with him a sense of dependability and real-world relatability that mirrors HMIL’s commitment to offering products that are not just technologically advanced, but also deeply humane in their appeal.

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E-Sports

USA TODAY Sports/PlayVS esports Super 25: All-time rankings

HSS Staff and PlayVS | USA TODAY High School Sports Esports national signing day kicks off with 11 commitments USA TODAY High School Sports and PlayVS unveil the second annual esports national signing day, celebrating the next generation of collegiate gamers. After a busy national signing day and close to the 2025 spring season, the […]

Published

18 hours ago

May 31, 2025

Your Sports Nation

HSS Staff and PlayVS
| USA TODAY High School Sports

Runner-up finishes: 1

T-24. Freedom High School (Va.)

Championship wins: 7

Runner-up finishes: 0

T-24. Timpanogos High School (Utah)

Championship wins: 7

Runner-up finishes: 0

T-24. Biloxi High School (Miss.)

Championship wins: 6

Runner-up finishes: 4

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E-Sports

Barça eSports – Giantx Pride: League Champions! (3-1)

Barça eSports have been crowned Superliga Domino’s champions in League of Legends. The Catalan side defeated GIANTX Pride 3-1 in Friday’s grand final of the Spring Split, held in front of hundreds of fans at the Municipal Theatre of Torrevieja. This marks Barça’s first Superliga title, confirming their status as one of the top teams […]

Published

22 hours ago

May 31, 2025

Your Sports Nation

Barça eSports have been crowned Superliga Domino’s champions in League of Legends. The Catalan side defeated GIANTX Pride 3-1 in Friday’s grand final of the Spring Split, held in front of hundreds of fans at the Municipal Theatre of Torrevieja. This marks Barça’s first Superliga title, confirming their status as one of the top teams in Spain’s competitive scene.

The path to glory was not straightforward. After a slow start to the season, Barça gradually found their rhythm and reached the Swiss Stage with a 6-4 record. There, they fell to UCAM Esports, but quickly turned things around with a series of key victories: Veni Vidi Vici (2-1), Movistar KOI Fénix (2-1) and LUA Gaming (3-1), followed by a thrilling 3-2 semifinal win over Los Heretics.

Despite GIANTX Pride entering the final as favorites, having dominated the regular season (8-1) and breezed past Heretics in the upper bracket, it was Barça who rose to the occasion. They claimed a closely fought opening game, lost the second in dominant fashion, but responded with a smart, coordinated effort in the third. With momentum on their side, they closed out the fourth game to seal the win. Local talent Sergio “Legolas” Vicente was named Final MVP, playing a decisive role in teamfights and clutch moments.

With this victory, Barça eSports finally claim their long-awaited title after falling short in two previous finals (Summer 2024 and Winter 2025, both lost to Heretics). This time, third time truly was the charm.

No rest for the champions: Barça eSports will now compete in the EMEA Masters, the international tournament bringing together the best regional teams from across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa.

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