UArizona Esports Launches Scholastic Youth Affiliate Program to Empower Local Esports Teams

[Tucson, October 9th, 2023] - The University of Arizona's Esports program is proud to introduce its Scholastic Youth Affiliate Program (SYAP), aimed at fostering the development and growth of high school and middle school esports teams in the Tucson area. This exciting initiative promises to provide partnership and unparalleled exposure for local high school and middle school gamers while building a bridge between scholastic youth and collegiate esports.

The UArizona Esports SYAP offers a wide range of benefits to affiliated high schools and their esports teams, including:

1. Streaming and Casting: Affiliated high school esports teams will have the opportunity to showcase their skills and compete on UArizona Esports' rapidly growing Twitch channel, which currently boasts over 600 followers. This exposure will provide a platform for high school players to share their talents with a wider audience.

2. Media Coverage: The program includes extensive coverage on UArizona Esports' social media platforms, giving high school teams the visibility they need to attract attention from esports enthusiasts, potential sponsors, and colleges.

3. Engagement and Community Development: Affiliated high school teams will have the chance to interact with UArizona's varsity and academy esports athletes, creating a supportive community and fostering mentorship opportunities.

SYAP aligns with UArizona Esports' mission to advance esports in academia and strengthen the esports ecosystem at all levels. By providing support, exposure, and engagement opportunities to local high school and middle school teams, the program seeks to nurture a pool of talented and prepared athletes for future competition at the collegiate level.

"The affiliate program is an important part of our ongoing commitment to the growth of esports in our community," said Ian Escalante, Director of UArizona Esports. "We believe in the potential of high school gamers.  this program will help them hone their skills, build connections, and take their passion for esports to the next level while celebrating their incredible accomplishments within the competitive space"

I really like the simplicity of saying affiliate program, especially with a quote since I’d never say that mouthful lol. And take their passion to the next level while celebrating their incredible accomplishments within the competitive space? I really want to include that thought somehow.

UArizona esports is thrilled to announce the following schools as the first UArizona Esports HSA teams:

For more information about the UArizona Esports High School Affiliate program or to inquire about becoming an affiliate, please visit: https://esports.arizona.edu/opportunities/high-school or contact Daelynn Hunter, Assistant Director of Esports..

For media inquiries, please contact: Gracie Lordi, Head of Communications and Content Creation - glordi@arizona.edu