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The coalition has the support of Contender Esports.
SBJ file
The coalition has the support of Contender Esports.

Springfield Sports Commission forms esports coalition

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The Springfield Sports Commission, which works to shore up sports tourism in the area, is launching an esports coalition.

The Springfield Esports Coalition was formed Dec. 15, according to a news release. The goal is to drive awareness of esports to bring economic value to the region.

“We are excited to dive into the world of esports," said Lance Kettering, executive director of the Springfield Sports Commission, in the release. "It is our goal to make Springfield a destination and hub of esports activity in the region and the United States. We feel fortunate to have a strong esports community in the Springfield area, and we are ready to harness that strength and make an impact for the benefit of Springfield.”

The coalition comprises a committee of the Springfield Sports Commission with representation from its board of directors, along with the support of Contender Esports LLC. The latter business, founded by Brett Payne, has been working to build a foothold in the esports market, according to past reporting.

“Springfield is in the unique position to be the centerpiece of esports in our nation," Payne said in the release. "The coalition gives context and a path for our city to not only be elevated as America’s No. 1 esports city, but also to provide strength to all parties in our community to thrive together as never before.”

The coalition will provide monthly networking events, and events are in the works, including the Missouri High School Esports Invitational in spring 2023, the Corporate Cup and the Missouri High School Esports Showcase in fall 2023.

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