Founded by professional hockey player Zachary "Zach" Hyman, E11 Gaming is a new esports organization based out of Toronto, Ontario. Hyman, the Toronto Maple Leafs' left-winger, is being established as a means of investing in successful esports players that can win tournaments. E11 Gaming has already set its sights on tournaments at TwitchCon and the Fortnite competition taking place from October 26th to 28th, and will be sending players on its roster to these events.
This is the first esports venture for Hyman, who will be joined by industry veteran Oliver Silverstein. According to Hyman, the decision to launch E11 Gaming came from his belief in the developing industry and the need to "start [his] own thing." Furthermore, the establishment of this organization legitimizes esports as conventional athletes break into the industry.
Athlete-Owned eSports Organizations
E11 Gaming is Owned and Operated by a Current NHL Player
Trend Themes
1. Athlete-owned Esports Organizations - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Explore partnerships between professional athletes and eSports organizations to gain credibility and tap into new audiences.
2. Investment in Esports Players - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Create platforms or agencies that specialize in investing in and managing successful eSports players for tournament participation and endorsements.
3. Crossover Between Traditional Sports and Esports - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Develop initiatives that bridge the gap between traditional sports and eSports to create new revenue streams and fan engagement opportunities.
Industry Implications
1. Esports Organizations - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Capitalize on the growing interest in eSports by developing athlete-owned organizations that attract both fans and potential investors.
2. Sports Investment Firms - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Create investment firms or platforms that specialize in scouting, financing, and managing eSports players for traditional athletes and other investors.
3. Sports Merchandise and Marketing - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Partner with athlete-owned eSports organizations to create unique merchandise and marketing campaigns that bridge the gap between traditional sports and eSports.