Griffith City Council presented Griffith’s first Esports Cup on Friday 22 and Saturday 23 April, with the event a resounding success for local enthusiasts.
Council’s Director Organisational and Economic Development, Shireen Donaldson said more than 130 registrations were received, exceeding event organisers expectations.
“Last year we surveyed local youth to see what kind of events they would like to participate in and Esports was a clear front runner,” said Mrs Donaldson.
“With thanks to a grant from the Department of Regional NSW (Office for Regional Youth), we were able to work with the Australian Esports League (AEL) to bring this fantastic event to Griffith.
“The two days were a resounding success with young people enjoying online competitive favourites such as 1v1 Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, Minecraft and Mario Kart 8 as well as enjoying the free play zone with bonus games such as Just Dance, Age of Empires and Halo – it was incredible to see so many enjoying Esports in a social environment,” added Mrs Donaldson.
Supersmash tournaments were live streamed over the two days, with community members watching on and cheering the competitors. New friendships were formed and many parents chose to come along and watch their children compete and play, creating a really enjoyable atmosphere.
Mrs Donaldson said competition was fierce, but friendly.
“Whilst everyone was in it to win it, the vibe in the room was amazing, with many participants later exchanging details to stay in touch. With COVID impacting our social interaction over the last two years, this was a great opportunity for likeminded people to get together and form relationships,” she said.
Winners of the SSBU and Mario Kart Open Tournament were (Gamer names used):
Mario Kart
1. Jono
2. The Yoshi Boi
3. rachael
SSBU:
1. Knight
2. Ollie
3. Meteora
4. Shadow
Minecraft winners were:
• Will from Leeton High School
• Preston from Marian Catholic College
• Finley from Leeton High School
Griffith Mayor, Councillor Doug Curran said he was amazed at the skills and sportsmanship on display.
“I am really pleased Council could bring the Esports Cup to Griffith and the number of participants demonstrates that Esports is emerging as a sport, which like any other sport, can be trained for to develop skills to enhance the game experience,” said Councillor Curran.
“Being in the room and observing the skills, determination and tenacity of the participants was certainly eye opening and I applaud each and every gamer!”
“Early feedback was really positive, with many requesting follow up events – if you attended, please consider completing our survey to help make events like these bigger and better in the future,” added Councillor Curran.
To complete the survey, please visit griffith.nsw.gov.au/esports
