Game on! Esports back for Riverina Cup 2021

Published: 08 Sep 2021 12:05pm

Wagga Wagga City Council will again team up with leading esports provider Australian Esports League (AEL) to host an online gaming tournament for local gamers in the Riverina and beyond for the second year in a row.

The 2021 Australian Esports League Riverina Cup will offer gamers the chance to compete and win prizes across two world renowned esports titles CS:GO and Rocket League.

The esports tournament will kick off 5 October with registrations open from 6 September at the AEL website.

Competition will take place in team formats - 3v3 for Rocket League and 5v5 for CS:GO - every Tuesday evening with live match broadcast and commentary.

Players will compete for a share of the $1,400 prize pool and the title as the Riverina Esports Champion for 2021!

Mayor of the City of Wagga Wagga Cr Greg Conkey OAM said the return of esports to the Riverina provided a welcome activity for the community currently experiencing State lockdown restrictions.

“It’s great to have esports back on the calendar this year after a successful inaugural tournament in 2020,” Cr Conkey said.

“Being able to compete in a COVID-safe environment is a great attraction for both novice and serious gamers to get involved in Esports.

“The pandemic has thrown its challenges at our community but hosting the Riverina Cup again this year is another opportunity to get involved in an activity which is sure to be a lot of fun.

“Esports is an extremely large global industry, and this tournament is a chance for the Riverina to log on and earn some exposure on the national platform.”

AEL Director Darren Kwan said his team is delighted to continue its partnership with Council to support and promote esports to the Riverina community.

“This is encouraging healthy participation and community engagement through esports. I wish all players the best of luck in the coming competition,” Mr Kwan said.

The two games selected for this event cater for all levels of players and are both family friendly. During the three weeks of heats, players will earn points towards a place in the grand final which will include the top eight in each game.

During selected matches there will be a live broadcast with commentary which will be streamed for audiences to watch.

To register for either game, go to AEL’s website at www.ael.org.au/riverina