National Association of Collegiate Esports (NACE) and the North American League of Legends Championship Series Players Association (NALCSPA) have joined forces to create educational opportunities for LCS players.
The alliance also gives players a chance to enter coaching, analysis, and administrative positions at collegiate esports programs across North America.
RELATED: NACE enters strategic partnership with Skillshot Media
The current nature of esports often sees people having to choose between pursuing education or taking the plunge to become a professional esports player. This partnership is said to be “the first of many steps” to address such an issue.
Michael Brooks, Executive Director of NACE, commented in a release: “When talks started late last year about educational opportunities for professional players I was deeply intrigued. We’ve known for years that due to the young ages of some of these top-tier professional players that they were forced to make some really difficult decisions for their futures. Certainly, no one wants these players to feel like the door to educational opportunities was closed to them because of their pursuits in the professional space – but that door is difficult to navigate without some effort to make the process clear.
“Additionally, we were quick to recognize the wealth of talent and expertise these young men and women had to offer to the collegiate space, which while growing at a rapid rate is still very much in its infancy. I cannot say enough about the amazing leadership Hal Biagas and the NALCSPA Executive Committee have shown by taking the initiative to bring our two groups together.”
RELATED: Eastern Michigan University taps Gen.G for esports program
NACE has been gathering available job openings targeted at individuals with professional experience for the last two months and has worked alongside various NACE members to acquire institutional information.
In a statement, the NACLSPA expressed its collective excitement surrounding the partnership: “The NALCS Players Association is excited to partner with NACE and its member schools to provide educational opportunities for current and former LCS and Academy pro players. These pro players are extremely talented, motivated and intelligent individuals who have much to offer higher education institutions in both the classroom and their esports programs.
“Working with Michael Brooks and his team at NACE has been a pleasure and the NALCSPA looks forward to a productive and mutually beneficial relationship with NACE and its member schools.”
Esports Insider says: The choice between education and pursuing a playing career in esports has always been difficult for aspiring players so this partnership could a great way for opening doors for current and former professional and academy players.