MTA announces final weekend of Alaskan esports tournament

PALMER — MTA is hosting the final weekend of the state’s largest esports gaming league this weekend.

According to a recent press release, Alaska has increasingly become a hub for esports with MTA continuing to play a leading role in this rise with community-building tournaments, supporting the esports programs of its partner Mat-Su Borough School District, as well as strong partnerships with leaders like AK Gamers, Arctic Comic Con, Senshi Con and more.

Alaskan esport players from across the state have competed for the past eight weeks in select games, including Fortnite, Apex Legends, League of Legends, Rocket League, and Super Smash Bros Ultimate.

The final weekend of the tournament will feature special guests including former Seattle Seahawk tight end Luke Willson and gaming personality Logan Kimmell of Kimmell Gaming, who will both appear to discuss their experiences and love of gaming.

MTA’s annual gaming tournament has served as a signature event promoting the non-profit MTA Foundation for the last four years, according to the press release.

MTA grows its sponsor relationships through the event, bringing new sponsors and more money to the great work of the MTA Foundation. Sponsors span across the United States and this year include Elite sponsors Ciena and Monster Energy.

According to the press release, MTA’s most recent gaming tournament raised nearly $30,000 for the MTA Foundation, and this year’s tournament is on track to surpass that.

It was also recognized as the “best virtual event” by Alaska Business Magazine.

“Since we launched, MTA Gaming’s goal has been to build lifelong, strategic relationships within Alaska gaming and ultimately promote technological awareness and education,”MTA Public Relations Manager Jess Gilbert stated in the press release. “With all of the great participants, sponsors and guests taking part, this year’s inaugural league has already proven to do just that. This event underscores our long-running commitment to giving back to the communities we serve, and we thank all in those communities who play a role in this effort.”

All proceeds from the esports tournament go to MTA Foundation, which strives to grow talent, promote technology adoption and boost economic development and entrepreneurship throughout Alaska.

The MTA Virtual Gaming Tournament takes place Saturday, Jan. 29 and Sunday, Jan. 30. Viewers can watch the tournament unfold live on Twitch each day starting at 10 a.m.

For more information, visit mtasolutions.com/esports.

For more information about the MTA Foundation, visit mtafoundation.org.

Contact Mat-Su Valley Frontiersman reporter Jacob Mann at jacob.mann@frontiersman.com