(WASHINGTON, DC) – February 26, 2018 – In year two of their partnership, Events DC and NRG Esports today announced a new training home in Washington, DC. The location will house NRG’s developmental Overwatch Roster for the Contenders Series. This strategic move to Washington, DC showcases Events DC’s long-term commitment to the rapidly growing esports landscape and its ecosystem in the nation’s capital.
“Washington, DC is an innovative city with a flourishing creative economy that continues to position itself to attract new visitors, future residents and industries to bring new revenue to the city. While technology is shaping the future of entertainment, esports is just another opportunity for us to showcase DC. Through Events DC’s esports initiative, the District remains committed to creating a hub for esports,” said Deputy Mayor Brian Kenner.
NRG’s Overwatch Contenders Roster will consist of six professional players from three different continents, who will now live and compete together under one roof. Having a dedicated training space has become a popular trend with professional players. The team house will allow for the best possible training environment by creating a central location for the players to live, play and work together.
The Contenders League season one will run for six weeks and the first match for the NRG team will take place on March 13 at 6:00 p.m.
"We are thrilled to be continuing the relationship between Events DC and NRG for another year. This year's focus on our Contenders Overwatch roster, that we will be housed in Washington DC, is incredibly exciting and offers up a host of new ways for Events DC and NRG to activate together," said Brett Lautenbach, President of NRG Esports.
The Overwatch Contenders team will wear a specialized tournament jersey featuring Events DC branding. The players will also participate in on-site activations in partnership with Events DC across the city as well as drive branded content.
“Everyone is very excited to represent NRG and to be given the opportunity to represent Events DC in Overwatch Contenders. We can't wait to move to DC and begin grinding,” said Robert Garcia, NRG Contenders Overwatch Player.
There are 12 teams in the North American region and there are six other regions, from across the globe, each with 12 teams participating in season one of the Contenders league.
Matches will be played (online) once a week on either Tuesday or Sunday from the team house. The season culminates in a playoff with a total prize pool of $185,040.00. To view the full season one schedule: https://contenders.playoverwatch.com/en-us/schedule.