North American esports organization M80 announced Monday that it has partnered with sports education brand IMG Academy to help launch a new esports camp at the IMG Academy campus in Bradenton, Florida, starting in May. The three week program promises “an elite esports training experience” with the hope of building up the next generation of competitive gamers in North America. The program will combine online learning with hands-on training at IMG Academy.
Financial terms of this new partnership were not disclosed, though
The new program will begin in May and is aimed at teens ages 12-18 interested in training and then competing in Valorant, Rocket League, and League of Legends. Students will learn directly from esports professionals such as M80’s Vice President of Esports Don “Syyko” Muir, Mind Body Esports Clinical Director Edward Cleland, and others. Daily activities will include physical and digital development, a focus on in-game strategies, teamwork and team building, and mental and physical health, according to the announcement. Minors will be accompanied by their guardians.
“Providing the structure needed for the growth of generational talent is critical to developing esports in North America, and M80 is proud to be leading the charge,” said Marco Mereu, M80 founder and CEO. “With over 300 universities offering esports scholarships in North America, there’s never been a more important time to provide a path to those opportunities, both in professional and collegiate play. Our partnership with IMG Academy will offer a one-of-a-kind program that leans on the esports leaders of today to inspire the pro players of tomorrow.”
The schedule for the programs are as follows:
Valorant:
- Two (2) week online education: Access opens May 26.
- On-site at IMG Academy in Florida: June 9 – 13.
Rocket League:
- Two (2) week online education: Access opens June 2.
- On-site at IMG Academy in Florida: June 16 – 20.
League of Legends:
- Two (2) week online education: Access opens June 9.
- On-site at IMG Academy in Florida: June 23 – 27.
Applications for the hybrid course are now open at www.imgacademy.com/sport-camps/esports.