The post Marzano and Magana Five-Year Study Shows Attendance and Discipline Gains from School Gaming Programs appeared first on PlayVS.
]]>The study analyzed student-level data from grades 6–12 across the 2020–21 through 2024–25 school years in the Wichita Public School District. Outcomes for participants were compared to more than 100,000 non-participating peers. Researchers calculated standardized effect sizes and conducted multilevel modeling to account for school-level differences. The findings show consistent, meaningful advantages for students involved in the programs, with the strongest outcomes for those participating in both.
Major Findings From the Study
Across five consecutive school years, students participating in structured PlayVS Gaming Concepts courses and school-based Esports programs demonstrated sustained and measurable gains in attendance and behavior.
For districts confronting chronic absenteeism, these results extend beyond engagement metrics. In many states, public school funding is directly tied to average daily attendance. Recovering even a handful of instructional days per student can represent the protection of hundreds of thousands of dollars at the school level while also increasing academic learning time. More time in class means more funding, more instructional continuity, and better academic outcomes.
Reductions in disciplinary incidents further preserve instructional continuity, reduce administrative strain, and strengthen overall school climate, compounding both the academic and operational benefits for schools.
“This study confirms what many educators have observed firsthand,” said Dr. Sonny Magana, founder of Magana Education and co-author of the study. “When students feel a sense of identity, belonging, and purpose, attendance improves, and positive behavior follows. Gaming Concepts and Esports create structured environments where students are accountable to a team, connected to real-world skills, and motivated to show up.”
Dr. Robert J. Marzano, one of the most cited education researchers in the United States, co-led the analysis. The research represents one of the most comprehensive examinations to date of gaming-based academic programs and student outcomes.
What the Study Concludes About Schools Implementing Gaming Concepts and Esports
Through the study, the researchers identified several consistent patterns among schools implementing structured Gaming Concepts coursework and team-based Esports programs:
“These results highlight the power of connecting academic learning to industries that students recognize and aspire to join. Gaming Concepts integrates communication, data analysis, media production, and leadership into a rigorous instructional framework,” said Michael Russel, EdD, Director of Education at PlayVS. “When students see a future pathway connected to what they are learning, their investment in school increases.”
Live Webinar: Deep Dive into the Research
To further explore the findings, Sonny Magana will host a live national webinar in partnership with PlayVS on March 10 at 4:00 p.m. CST. During this session, Magana will break down the study’s methodology, unpack the five-year data analysis, and outline actionable strategies for district and school leaders.
The webinar will provide practical guidance for schools seeking to improve attendance, strengthen student engagement, reduce behavioral incidents, and build sustainable pathways to career-connected learning.
Register to Attend at playvs.com/researchwebinar
Read the Full Report and Learn More About Gaming Concepts at gamingconcepts.gg
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About PlayVS
PlayVS is North America’s leading scholastic and collegiate gaming platform, helping students unlock the educational, social, and personal benefits of competitive gaming. Gaming Concepts’ award-winning gaming curriculum is dedicated to building structured, community-driven pathways into competitive gaming and digital careers. Through its innovative curriculum and immersive programming, Gaming Concepts empowers students with the skills, teamwork, leadership, and strategic thinking required to succeed both in and outside the classroom. PlayVS is the official esports partner of the NFHS Network, the Special Olympics, and more than 40 state and regional organizations across the U.S. and Canada
About Dr. Robert J. Marzano
Dr. Marzano is a nationally recognized education researcher and author whose work has influenced instructional practice and leadership in schools across the United States and internationally.
About Dr. Sonny Magana
Dr. Sonny Magana is the founder of Magana Education and an internationally recognized leader in educational innovation, student engagement, and measurable impact in K–12 systems.
Media Contact [email protected]
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]]>The post PlayVS and Urban One Launch Historic National HBCU Esports Community During Black History Month appeared first on PlayVS.
]]>This one-of-a-kind partnership combines Urban One’s cultural authority and its 80 million monthly unique reach, with PlayVS’s extensive collegiate competition infrastructure, creating both visibility and access to scale. The initiative is designed to honor the legacy of HBCUs while building a sustainable pipeline that connects talented K-12 gamers to higher education opportunities across the nation.
“Black gamers are among the most influential audiences in the industry, yet Black professionals represent only about 5% of its workforce,” said Tiffany Nasralla, Chief Revenue Officer, Urban One. “The gap isn’t about talent. It’s about access. Through our partnership with PlayVS, we’re using our platform to build a national stage for HBCU students, expanding visibility, structured competition, and real pathways into the industries they’ve long helped define. This is about turning cultural influence into lasting opportunity.”
A Home for Every HBCU
Recognizing the need for a unified competitive stage, this partnership establishes a league available to any HBCU looking for a place to compete. Whether a university has an established esports program or is just beginning its journey, this league provides the infrastructure, standards, and platform needed to thrive. Registration will begin this Fall with the official season of competition launching next February.
“For our students, esports is more than just competition; it is a gateway to technology, media, and leadership,” said Jaden Roberts, the President of Howard’s Esports Association. “It is inspiring to see Urban One, with its deep ties to Howard through the legacy of Cathy Hughes, partnering with PlayVS to elevate that opportunity. We are eager to participate in this new league and to contribute to a dedicated community that gives HBCU talent the national stage it deserves.”
Strategic Rollout and Timeline
PlayVS and Urban One are taking a deliberate, community-first approach to developing the National HBCU Esports Community. The phased rollout is designed to ensure thoughtful program development, institutional alignment, and sustainable growth.
Elevating HBCU Voices on a National Stage
Urban One will amplify the initiative through its expansive content distribution network and owned suite of media platforms. Coverage will extend beyond competition to spotlight the distinct campus culture, academic excellence, and student leadership that define the HBCU experience.
“As pioneers in the collegiate space, Southern University EDGE is excited to join forces with PlayVS and Urban One. This partnership bridges the gap between competitive gaming and the vibrant culture of HBCUs, meeting our students exactly where they are with a dedicated stage to showcase their skills,” said Christopher Turner, Esports Program Director at Southern University.
About Urban One
Urban One, Inc. (urban1.com) is the largest diversified media company primarily targeting Black Americans and Urban consumers in the U.S., reaching 80 million unique users monthly. Its assets include TV One and CLEO TV, collectively available in 40 million households; Radio One, with 74 broadcast stations in 13 top African American markets; and REACH Media, with 312 affiliates over 94 markets and home to nationally syndicated shows such as The Rickey Smiley Morning Show, The D.L. Hughley Show, Get Up! Mornings with Erica Campbell and The Morning Hustle. Urban One’s digital division, iONE Digital, engages 31 million monthly users across leading brands like Bossip, HipHopWired, MadameNoire, and NewsOne.
About PlayVS
PlayVS is North America’s leading scholastic and collegiate gaming platform, helping students unlock the educational, social, and personal benefits of competitive gaming. The company brings together students, coaches, educators, and schools through structured, education-aligned competition across K-12 and college. Launched in 2025, the PlayVS College League (PCL) builds on PlayVS’s scholastic foundation by extending structured competition into higher education. PlayVS is the official esports partner of the NFHS Network, the Special Olympics, and more than 40 state and regional organizations across the U.S. and Canada. To learn more, visit playvscom.
Media Contacts:
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]]>The post PlayVS & desportz Announce Strategic Partnership to Bring Gaming Concepts Curriculum to Indian Schools appeared first on PlayVS.
]]>This collaboration marks the first major initiative to integrate a structured, accredited gaming curriculum designed for the K-12 segment directly into the Indian school system, aligning fully with the vision of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.
“This partnership represents a major milestone for Gaming Concepts and PlayVS” said Jon Chapman, CEO of PlayVS. “Through our partnership with desportz, we are bringing North America’s leading gaming curriculum to an international audience for the first time. Gaming Concepts transforms a global passion for gaming into real-world career pathways in technology, media, and design, while building essential 21st-century skills like collaboration and critical thinking.”
Filling a Crucial Educational Gap
While the Asian-Pacific EdTech market has seen explosive growth in test-prep and adult upskilling, this partnership directly addresses the need for a credit-eligible curriculum focused on the younger demographic (Grade 6+) where early exposure to digital skills can shape long-term academic and career outcomes.
“We are proud to serve as the exclusive partner bringing Gaming Concepts to India,” said Aditya Kailas Nair, Director of desportz. “Today’s students need skills that extend beyond traditional subjects, and Gaming Concepts gives schools a practical way to teach digital literacy, health and wellness, and STEAM through an experience students already connect with. As PlayVS’s partner on the ground, we are focused on driving adoption and ensuring the program is deeply integrated into local school communities.”
Key Highlights of the Initiative:
The partnership agreement starts with immediate efforts this year to introduce the program to leading schools across CBSE, ICSE, and State Boards in preparation for the next academic admission cycle.
About PlayVS
PlayVS is North America’s leading scholastic and collegiate gaming platform, helping students unlock the educational, social, and personal benefits of competitive gaming. The company brings together students, coaches, educators, and schools through structured, education-aligned competition across K-12 and college. Launched in 2025, the PlayVS College League (PCL) builds on PlayVS’s scholastic foundation by extending structured competition into higher education. PlayVS is the official esports partner of the NFHS Network, the Special Olympics, and more than 40 state and regional organizations across the U.S. and Canada. To learn more, visit playvs.com.
Media Contact: [email protected]
About desportz
desportz was established with the objective of developing a structured, responsible, and education-led esports ecosystem in India. Since its inception, desportz has focused on creating learning pathways that connect student interest in gaming with academic outcomes, digital skills, and long-term career awareness. Through curriculum design, educator engagement, and industry collaboration, desportz has consistently advocated for esports to be approached not as recreational gaming, but as a disciplined, skill-based learning opportunity aligned with institutional values and student wellbeing.
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]]>The post Collegiate Esports Recruiting 101 appeared first on PlayVS.
]]>This guide walks students and parents through key steps to navigating college esports recruitment – from first contact to securing scholarships – while highlighting how PlayVS bridges the gap between high school and collegiate play.
Recruiting in collegiate esports works much like traditional athletics. Coaches look for skilled, coachable players who demonstrate strong communication and teamwork. Students should start by researching programs that align with their academic and gaming goals.
PlayVS Recruitment offers a free and easy way for high school students to get noticed by colleges and be in line for potential scholarship opportunities. Students 16+ in the U.S and Canada can sign up for free at: playvs.com/recruit
Be professional and proactive. Students should take ownership of communication, whether through email, social media, or platforms like Discord. If the program has a recruiting survey, make sure to do it. These are commonly linked on social media, website, or Discord. Coaches and directors actively track and find recruits through these questionnaires, and want to see responsibility and initiative – qualities that reflect leadership potential.
When reaching out to programs, share highlights from your matches on PlayVS high school leagues. Many collegiate coaches already recognize PlayVS competitions as a benchmark for structured and legitimate esports experience.
Not all collegiate esports programs are the same. Some offer scholarships, while others provide competitive club experiences. Research schools, their game titles, and their esports facilities before committing.
Visiting campuses is highly encouraged. Touring an esports facility can provide insight into what life as a student-athlete might look like. Schools using PlayVS often maintain connections with college esports programs, making this transition even smoother.
Collegiate esports scholarships are expanding rapidly. Many universities now offer partial or full scholarships for skilled players. PlayVS helps students gain recognition through official rankings and partnerships that make it easier for coaches to discover talent.
If you’re looking to prepare academically, PlayVS Recruitment offers a free and easy way for high school students to get noticed by colleges and be in line for potential scholarship opportunities. Students 16+ in the U.S and Canada can sign up for free at: playvs.com/recruit
Parents play an important role in supporting students through this journey – While esports may feel unfamiliar, it offers real opportunities for personal development, scholarships, and future careers in technology, broadcasting, and gaming. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Coaches understand that gaming might not be in your realm of expertise, and are more than happy to answer any questions you might have, or address concerns about school and life balance, time management, and your prospective student’s schedule.
PlayVS Recruitment offers a free and easy way for high school students to get noticed by colleges and be in line for potential scholarship opportunities. Students 16+ in the U.S and Canada can sign up for free at: playvs.com/recruit
As esports continues to grow, the connection between high school and collegiate programs will strengthen. PlayVS is helping build that bridge, ensuring students have a clear path from classroom to competition.
Whether you’re a student aiming for recruitment or an educator helping guide your playersprovides the structure, legitimacy, and visibility needed to reach the next level.
The path to collegiate esports starts with preparation, professionalism, and the right platform. By competing through PlayVS, students gain valuable exposure and experience valued by college programs nationwide. Esports offers more than just competition for students, it provides a community, a purpose, and a pathway to brighter futures.
PlayVS Recruitment offers a free and easy way for high school students to get noticed by colleges and be in line for potential scholarship opportunities. Students 16+ in the U.S and Canada can sign up for free at: playvs.com/recruit
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]]>The post PlayVS Acquires Vanta Esports, Strengthening the Nation’s Largest Education-Focused Gaming Ecosystem appeared first on PlayVS.
]]>The acquisition of Vanta adds 3,000 K–12 schools to the PlayVS network and reinforces its position as the most comprehensive competitive gaming and education ecosystem, spanning K–12 and college. Together, PlayVS and Vanta create a unified, education-aligned platform designed to support organized competition, expert coaching, educator enablement, and clear pathways for student growth, development, and advancement.
“Vanta has built an exceptional, education-focused platform rooted in coaching, mentorship, and safe competition,” said Jon Chapman, CEO of PlayVS. “By bringing our organizations together, we can expand access for more students, provide greater support for educators, and better serve schools and communities nationwide. Our mission has always been to unlock the positive power of gaming, including teamwork, leadership, confidence, and problem-solving, and this expansion allows us to deliver that impact at significantly greater scale.”
Expanding the PlayVS Ecosystem Through Coaching and Education
Vanta Esports brings a differentiated, coaching-led model that connects youth players with trained and vetted esports coaches who lead team practices and one-on-one sessions focused on strategy, teamwork, communication, and holistic skill development. Delivered through Vanta’s youth-safe, COPPA-compliant esports platform, these programs are offered both as season-long team experiences and through flexible individual scheduling. Vanta also adds a strong presence in key states, including Texas and Hawaii, along with a portfolio of marquee events such as the Hawaii Esports Invitational and championship LAN events including the Texas State Championship, which will continue under the PlayVS umbrella with the benefit of expanded scale and infrastructure.
“From the start, it was clear that PlayVS and Vanta share the same beliefs about the positive role gaming can play in students’ lives,” said Patrick Cronin, CEO of Vanta. “Our teams are deeply committed to coaching, community, and meaningful competition, and we’re excited to keep building together.”
Building a Complete Pathway for Students and Schools
The acquisition of Vanta builds on PlayVS’s recent expansion, including Generation Esports and Playfly College Esports in 2025, and strengthens its commitment to comprehensive, school-based competitive gaming. Together, these platforms support students and schools through structured competition, expert coaching, educator enablement, and expanded programming across esports, broadcasting, and STEM.
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About PlayVS
PlayVS is North America’s leading scholastic and collegiate gaming platform, helping students unlock the educational, social, and personal benefits of competitive gaming. The company brings together students, coaches, educators, and schools through structured, education-aligned competition across K-12 and college. Launched in 2025, the PlayVS College League (PCL) builds on PlayVS’s scholastic foundation by extending structured competition into higher education. PlayVS is the official esports partner of the NFHS Network, the Special Olympics, and more than 40 state and regional organizations across the U.S. and Canada. To learn more, visit playvs.com.
Media Contact: [email protected]
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]]>The post Player Spotlight: Claudia Mauwa appeared first on PlayVS.
]]>When Claudia Mauwa walked into the esports room at Omaha Central High School for the first time, she was not sure she would fit in. She had never played team esports before. She had never played a game on a keyboard and mouse. She only knew Valorant from watching streamers online during the early days of the pandemic. Still, when she saw her school had added Valorant to its esports lineup, something in her sparked. She gathered her courage, approached Coach Jonathan Franta, and said she wanted to join.
What happened next is what Claudia describes as surprising in the best possible way. From the moment she sat down at the Valorant pod, people greeted her like she already belonged. Teammates said hello. Her captain helped her learn the basics. No one made her feel inexperienced or out of place. She expected to feel intimidated, but instead she felt welcomed. She quickly realized that the esports environment was different from what many assume. Students there understand what it feels like to feel excluded, so they make sure new players do not feel that way.
Transitioning from watching Valorant to playing it competitively came with real challenges. Claudia had to learn aim, maps, abilities, and how to communicate under pressure. The learning curve was steep, yet she found the experience deeply rewarding. Playing helped her understand strategy and teamwork on a level she never felt as a spectator. With every practice, she grew more confident and more connected to her team.
Outside her school’s environment, Claudia sometimes faced the familiar difficulties of being a girl in a male-dominated gaming space. In online matches, she often hesitated to speak, knowing how some players might respond. Even so, she continued playing because she loved the game and refused to let negative voices take that from her. Inside her school’s esports room, she found the opposite of hostility. She found encouragement, support, and an environment where she could grow.
Esports shaped her habits as a student as well. She became more organized with her time so she could finish homework before practice. She grew more comfortable speaking with teammates and discovered how shared interests could help her connect with new people. As someone who considers herself introverted, she found the confidence she did not expect to gain through a video game.
One of Claudia’s favorite memories is the team’s first win. Early in the season, communication had been inconsistent, and the group was still learning how to play together. That first victory changed everything. She remembers the excitement, the laughter, and the energy that filled the room. Coach Franta remembers looking across the space, seeing her arms shoot straight into the air and knowing instantly that they had finally secured the win they had been chasing.
As the season continued, Claudia became a steady presence for her team. She gravitated toward supportive roles like Initiators and Sentinels because they match her real-life personality. She prefers helping the team stay grounded rather than being the loudest voice in the room. Her coach describes her as a calming force in a high-energy environment. When she arrived after finishing homework, her teammates often reacted with relief and excitement because her presence made the group feel complete.
Claudia’s connection to gaming was shaped in part by the streamer Valkyrae, whose positivity and authenticity made her feel welcome in the community. Seeing someone from an underrepresented background thrive helped Claudia imagine a place for herself. She noticed how few women and how few Black women appear at the highest levels of esports and hopes her presence helps younger students feel encouraged to join.
Looking ahead, Claudia hopes to continue playing Valorant in college while pursuing a future in the medical field. She wants esports to remain part of her life because of the joy and support it has given her. Coach Franta describes her growth as remarkable and hopes she receives every opportunity she works for. He sees in her a student who is adaptable, reliable, and a quiet leader who makes everyone around her better.
Claudia hopes students who are unsure about joining esports remember why they love the games they play and not let stereotypes or fear influence their choices. If she had listened to her own doubts, she might never have discovered a place where she feels inspired, supported, and confident every day. Her story shows how a welcoming esports program can help students find connection, purpose, and a sense of belonging that reaches far beyond the screen.
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]]>The post Cove Coronado is Forging a New Legacy in Madden NFL 26 appeared first on PlayVS.
]]>Alongside the support of Head Esports Coach, Mario Villalobos, Cove was capable of carving a unique journey to channel his passion for football that turned into a catalyst for personal growth.
When Cove transferred to Lancaster High School in his senior year, his original goal was to join the football team. Having started playing football at the age of 6, Cove had built a true love and passion for the game. Over the years, he played on teams with undefeated seasons, was featured in the local newspaper, and earned MVP honors at the LA Chargers and Rams football camps at Sofi Stadium.
However, when his transfer paperwork for the team was declined, Cove’s 10 years of playing had hit a roadblock. Faced with this obstacle, Cove chose not to miss a beat. With a long-standing interest in competitive Madden and after he saw that Lancaster had an esports program, Cove knew he had found the perfect place to pivot and leave his mark. That season, Cove became Lancaster Esports’ first-ever Madden player.
“Competing in esports, particularly as the first Madden player at my school, brought a new sense of excitement and honor to my high school experience.”
Having successfully established the program several years prior, Coach Villalobos was excited at the prospect of expanding the team’s roster to include Madden NFL 26 and givinge a new student a path for success, just as it had for so many of his other students.
“Esports has the potential to be a program of the future,” Mario shared, “because you don’t have to be a five-star athlete… anybody can compete in their favorite game”.
When Cove played football, he primarily held the position of center,a position that required a high-demanding football IQ. He fondly remembers his favorite moment: winning back-to-back undefeated seasons and Super Bowls with his team.
Before joining the esports program, Cove’s Madden journey began about five years ago, inspired to try playing after watching his father’s own passion for the game. Cove learned quickly to hone his skills in the game, incorporating much of what he was learning on the field at the time into his offensive and defensive strategy as well as play calling.
In transferring his skills from the field to the sticks, for Cove, Madden isn’t just a game; it’s an advanced film room. The virtual experience provided him with a deeper understanding of game strategy, specifically how to beat different coverages and how linemen set up their blocks. Through Ultimate Team, Cove also learned about the legends of the sport and studied their techniques to improve my own skills. For example, Cove discovered Reggie White’s famous hump move in Madden, practiced it in-game, and then studied how to stop it on the field.
“Going into the film room,” Cove recalled, “the coaching staff mentioned slide protecting and iding the blitz, and I already knew so much more than that just from playing Madden… I was already so much more advanced than everybody else in that room. It was ridiculous.”
When competing, Cove’s team of choice has become the Baltimore Ravens for their stout defense and versatile offense featuring Lamar Jackson and Derrick Henry. In approaching a match, Cove treats it like a deep dive into film study. He analyzes his opponent’s past scores and tendencies to assess their offense, all while maintaining supreme confidence in his own strategic attacks.
Cove’s Madden preparation also continues to be a family affair, as he spends 30 minutes before every match practicing with his dad, who runs specific blitz packages to prepare him for tournament play.
“I get to see how it breaks down into a chess match,” Cove explains. “This improves your overall game sense in a way.”
As a senior and a team captain, Cove’s greatest contribution to the Lancaster esports program has been to his teammates. Though he naturally keeps to himself, he pushed outside his comfort zone to recruit others to compete in Madden and even mentor a freshman teammate, a clear sign of leadership.
Looking ahead, Cove hopes his Madden success will inspire others to continue the program. More than any trophy, he wants his legacy to be defined by his character:
“I would like to be remembered for how I was as a person, being a leader, more than just my gameplay,” Cove said.Cove’s love for Madden will not end with his high school journey. He will continue to hone his skills and shoot for a ranking in Madden Ultimate Team as well as be a mentor to the next generation of esports members. We have not heard the last from Cove.
“Madden has taken my love for football and magnified it. It gives everyone—no matter their athletic ability, age, gender, or challenges—the chance to step into the game and become All-Madden. For me, it’s more than just competition; it’s a way to stay connected to the sport I love and to keep pushing myself to be the best.”
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]]>The post PlayVS and Palmer Hamilton Esports Partner to Empower Scholastic Esports Programs Nationwide appeared first on PlayVS.
]]>PlayVS is proud to announce a new partnership with Palmer Hamilton Esports, a leader in innovative educational furniture and design solutions, and their partner company, RESPAWN, the premier brand for competitive gaming furniture. As part of the partnership, Palmer Hamilton Esports and RESPAWN will serve as the Official Desk and Gaming Chair Partner of PlayVS and the PlayVS Collegiate League (PCL) as a collaborative, trusted resource providing consultative services, furniture, and resources to elevate scholastic esports programs in the PlayVS network at any stage in their journey.
Together, we’re bringing next-level esports environments and experiences to schools and colleges across the country.
Through this collaboration, Palmer Hamilton Esports and RESPAWN will engage directly with program directors, coaches, and administrators in the PlayVS ecosystem. Their mission: to help schools design high-quality, ergonomic, and engaging gaming spaces that boost the student experience.
“This partnership between Palmer Hamilton, RESPAWN, and PlayVS helps us take esports in education to the next level,” said Jeff Palumbo, Director of Esports at Palmer Hamilton. “Together, we’re creating more than just gaming spaces — we’re building pathways for students to learn, lead, and compete in environments that inspire teamwork, inclusivity, and academic engagement.”
Palmer Hamilton Esports joins The Collective, PlayVS’s exclusive network of trusted partners that provides valuable resources and support to the K12 and collegiate esports communities. As a member of The Collective, Palmer Hamilton Esports will have a dedicated presence on the PlayVS platform and website, showcasing a curated list of recommended product options, including considerations for programs of all budget levels, as well as the ability to request free collaborative consultations from an experienced professional.
“Creating spaces where students can thrive, compete, and build community is core to our mission,” said PlayVS’ Director of Scholastics, Josh Cobb. “Palmer Hamilton Esports’s expertise in educational environments, combined with RESPAWN’s leadership in gaming furniture, makes this partnership a natural fit for advancing scholastic esports.”
With this partnership, PlayVS and Palmer Hamilton Esports are setting a new standard for how schools approach esports, blending competitive excellence with comfort, design, and educational value.
To help guide program leaders and school decision-makers into solutions that work for every situation, PlayVS and Palmer Hamilton Esports will co-host the Esports Lab Solutions Webinar Series, a four-part event designed to educate administrators, coaches, and technology directors on creating functional and inspiring esports spaces.
The first webinar is scheduled for November 18th and will be geared towards College Program Directors. Click here to register for our November 18th Collegiate Webinar.
The second webinar, taking place December 10th will be focused on K12 Scholastic Esports Programs. Click here to register for our December 10th Scholastic Webinar.
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]]>The post PlayVS Partners with Extron to Elevate Scholastic Esports with Professional AV Technology appeared first on PlayVS.
]]>“By combining PlayVS’s competition platform with Extron’s professional AV solutions, we’re setting a new standard for scholastic esports innovation, helping schools prepare students for the future of gaming and beyond.” – Veronica Sander, VP of Strategic Partnerships
Together, we’re creating a stronger foundation for programs to flourish, from middle school through college. Our collaboration ensures schools have the tools they need to not only compete, but to connect, innovate, and thrive.
“We look forward to working with PlayVS,” says Anthony Cortes, Director of Sales and Marketing, Education Classroom Systems for Extron. “Their platform is transforming scholastic esports, and our AV solutions help schools bring that experience to life.”
We can’t wait to see the amazing programs schools will build with this new support, and we’re excited to keep pushing scholastic esports forward together.
Learn More About Extron’s Esports Offerings
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]]>The post Tottenham Hotspur and PlayVS Launch ‘Game to Glory’ Youth Gaming Challenge appeared first on PlayVS.
]]>LONDON AND LOS ANGELES, Sept. 29, 2025 – Tottenham Hotspur and PlayVS, North America’s leading scholastic and collegiate esports platform, today announced a new partnership to launch Tottenham Hotspur Game to Glory, a groundbreaking gaming and fan engagement initiative in the United States.
The program will unite students in two EA SPORTS FC 26 tournaments, culminating in a live-streamed finals broadcast. By blending soccer with competitive gaming, Tottenham Hotspur aims to reach youth in dynamic new ways during a pivotal moment for the sport’s growth in the U.S.
Tottenham Hotspur Game to Glory will provide students aged 13-22 with a unique opportunity to engage with the history and heritage of Tottenham Hotspur. Through branded competitions and interactive livestreams, participants will gain opportunities to compete and connect more deeply with the culture and tradition of the Club.
“This program is truly unique, and PlayVS is proud to partner with Tottenham Hotspur to bring the excitement and passion of their club to students across the U.S.,” said Jon Chapman, CEO of PlayVS. “Together, we’re opening new ways for young fans to connect with one of the world’s most iconic soccer clubs while building community and inspiring the next generation.”
The initiative builds on the surging momentum of soccer in the U.S. ahead of the FIFA World Cup in 2026, creating an avenue for students to not only play but also discover the heritage and culture of one of the world’s most iconic football clubs.
Will Hattam, Marketing Director at Tottenham Hotspur, said: “Tottenham Hotspur is committed to finding innovative ways to connect with fans, and Game To Glory gives us the opportunity to inspire young audiences in the U.S. through a passion for football and gaming. By partnering with PlayVS, we can share the heritage of our Club, build connections, and inspire passion for football at a time when the sport’s growth in the United States is building towards next summer’s FIFA World Cup.”
PlayVS will manage the full execution of the program, from student engagement and tournament to branded content and integration of prominent creators and broadcasters, delivering a turnkey experience that authentically connects Tottenham Hotspur with young fans through gaming.
Tottenham Hotspur Game to Glory will feature two competitions for U.S. students, with the first running October 10–12, 2025, and the second October 24–26, 2025. The winners will advance to the semifinals and finals, culminating in a live broadcast on November 10, 2025. Full details and registration are available at gametoglory.gg.
About PlayVS
PlayVS is North America’s leading esports and gaming platform, helping students unlock the many benefits of competitive gaming for students at every level. It offers a comprehensive community where players, coaches, educators, and parents come together to compete, connect, and grow. With the launch of the PlayVS College League (PCL) and the acquisitions of Generation Esports and Playfly College Esports, PlayVS now provides the most comprehensive pathway in scholastic esports, from middle school through college. PlayVS is the official esports partner of the NFHS Network, the Special Olympics, and 40+ state and regional organizations across the U.S. and Canada. To learn more, visit playvs.com.
About Tottenham Hotspur Football Club
Tottenham Hotspur Football Club, commonly known as Spurs, is one of world football’s most recognisable and popular clubs, with a global fanbase of millions. The Club has been an ever-present in the English Premier League since its inception in 1992, competing in European football in 18 of the last 20 seasons and lifting the UEFA Europa League title in 2025. To learn more, visit: https://www.tottenhamhotspur.com/
The post Tottenham Hotspur and PlayVS Launch ‘Game to Glory’ Youth Gaming Challenge appeared first on PlayVS.
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