Growing esports franchise Valhallan announced the acquisition of NXT UP Esports, the largest provider of virtual youth esports camps and leagues across the United States. The move enables Valhallan to provide an inclusive environment for esports competition, regardless of skill, for kids anywhere in the world, even if there isn’t a Valhallan arena close by.
“NXT UP Esports is the perfect addition to add virtual programs in areas where we don’t have Valhallan arenas – youth players and teams everywhere will be able to join, train and compete with us,” said Matt Phillips, brand president of Valhallan (pictured). “It also opens doors to further Valhallan’s global expansion, enabling us to serve significantly more gamers anywhere they might be. It’s exciting news for our players, franchise owners and youth esports as a whole.”
With the acquisition of NXT UP Esports and the recent acquisitions of the United Federation of Esports Athletes (UFEA) league and the North American Esports League (NAEL), Valhallan now boasts thousands of teams and players, solidifying the brand further as the largest youth esports franchise.
Like Valhallan, NXT UP Esports prides itself on its youth development that teaches players essential life skills through video games, with the belief that the lessons kids learn from being a part of a team can extend to all aspects of their lives, now and in the future.
The acquisition also brings NXT UP Esports founder Luke Zelon to the Valhallan team as the new vice president of media and partnerships. Under Luke, NXT UP Esports has established partnerships and connections with influential esports and youth programs such as the Boys and Girls Clubs of America, Team Liquid and traditional sports company U.S. Sports Camps. Valhallan will look to add additional partnerships that are aligned with the brand.
“By combining the training and curriculum of Valhallan with the virtual capabilities of NXT UP Esports, Valhallan can offer the experience of a lifetime for young gamers from almost anywhere in the world,” said Luke. “With the new addition, Valhallan can now reach a larger audience while bringing exciting new opportunities to the world of esports.”
