Erie, PA (July 6, 2023) — In partnership with Gannon University and Northwest Tri-County Intermediate Unit 5 (IU5), Velocity Network, Inc. (VNET) announced today that they will be hosting the inaugural Flagship City Esports Invitational: "The Battle of Lake Erie.” The tournament will take place on August 19–20, 2023 at Gannon University’s Recreational and Wellness Center — coinciding with CelebrateErie and Gannon’s Welcome week.
“In Erie County and across the country, fiber is every gamer's number one choice for high-speed internet,” said Joel Deuterman, President and CEO of VNET. “The Flagship City Esports Invitational will put Erie on the esports map and VNET is proud to be able to provide local gamers a unique opportunity to showcase their skills through the unmatched benefits of broadband.
“We look forward to welcoming high school gamers, Gannon University students, and the Erie community for the first of what we hope will become an exciting annual event.”
Prior to August 19th, a virtual tournament will take place July 22nd and 23rd, with the qualifying players advancing to the in-person championships on August 19th competing on stage and on stream.
Following that virtual tournament, the official Battle of Lake Erie tournament will then kick off on August 19th with gamers representing regional high schools located in the IU5. Battling it out in Super Smash Bros and Rocket League, gamers will have the opportunity to claim the official gamer title and other exciting prizes. Continuing the excitement on Sunday, August 20th, Gannon University students and the general public will take the stage to compete in Rocket League, Super Smash Bros, and Mario Kart.
Joining VNET officials at the press conference to kick off this exciting esports tournament was Adrienne Nannen, Events Manager, City of Erie; Sarah Ewing., Provost and Vice President of Student Experience, Gannon University; Brad Whitman, Executive Director of the Northwest Tri-County IU5; and members from VisitErie and the Erie Sports Commission.
To register, please visit: www.flagshipcityesports.gg