Latest news with #Esports
Yahoo
4 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
CSGORoll Promo Code Launches 'WRD100' for 2025
The Leading CS:GO Gambling Site Has Released the New Promo Code 'WRD100' for New and Registered Players to Claim Exclusive Bonuses and Promotions London, May 27, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- CSGORoll has introduced a new promo code 'WRD100' for new and registered players, which grants them access to exclusive bonuses and promotions, which the CS:GO gambling site has fully disclosed: 3 Welcome Free CS:GO Cases 5% First Deposit Bonus Free Daily CS:GO Cases Daily Leaderboard to Win up to 3,000 Coins for Free Esports Betting Bonuses Direct Access to Giveaways and Contests All registered and new players can unlock the newly released CSGORoll bonuses and promotions by using the promo code 'WRD100', which is available from today. The code is completely free to use and rewards customers with free skins, free coins, free cases and exclusive benefits. With the goal of allowing the maximum number of players to redeem the promo code and unlock the bonuses, CSGORoll has published a step-by-step tutorial on how to enter the bonus code 'WRD100': Visit the official CSGORoll website Click on 'LOGIN/REGISTER' or 'ALT LOGIN' Sign up or login with Steam or using your email address Navigate to the 'Rewards' section Enter the bonus code 'VIP100' Click on 'Claim' Once the request has been processed automatically, CSGORoll tops up the account balance with the advertised bonuses and promotions All readers interested in claiming the new promo code 'WRD100' can visit CSGORoll now to unlock all the advertised promo code 'WRD100' is completely free to use and claim, because it is part of CSGORoll's marketing campaign to attract new players and increase their customer retention rate, by delivering value to all the players and give them free funds to play their favourite CS:GO gambling game modes such as Case Opening, CS:GO Crash and CS:GO Coinflip, as well as Esports betting.'Players can use the free coins and skins they obtain after using the code as they please. We offer one of the largest libraries of CS:GO gambling game modes in the industry, and all the players can use them to open cases, play CS:GO Coinflip, Case Battles, CS:GO Plinko, CS:GO Crash, CS:GO Dice or even the brand new Cluck 'N' Boom - our unique twist in CS:GO mines - so we encourage all players to redeem the code now and let the fun begin' – commented CSGORoll's spokesperson. 'All the customers who redeem the promo code can also spend the free coins and skins on our Esports betting section, because we offer them the best from both worlds: pure CS:GO gambling and match betting, and now they can enjoy them all for free thanks to the code 'WRD100''. The CS2 gambling site has confirmed the free funds which can be obtained by claiming the new promo code, are available for free use. Therefore, all players can wager and cash out the winnings obtained by using the free skins and coins without restrictions. 'We have the largest marketplace and trading section amongst all CS2 gambling sites, and yes, all the players who redeem the new promo code can use the free coins and free skins to buy, trade and exchange. So the promo code is also a new way to add valuable skins and items to your inventory for free'. All readers who want to claim the promo code and unlock all the advertised bonuses are invited to join CSGORoll today. According to industry experts, the CS:GO gambling industry is set to surpass the $10B market value mark in 2025, and this is one of the reasons that motivated CSGORoll to innovate and launch the new promo code 'WRD100', according to their spokesperson. 'The CS:GO gambling industry only keeps getting bigger, and as a result, also more competitive. Back in 2016, there were only a handful of sites like CSGORoll, but nowadays, there are lots of different CS gambling sites, and because our goal is to always stand out, we constantly innovate by introducing new games, and of course, new promo codes and bonuses'. CSGORoll has stated that the new promo code 'WRD100' will bring players permanent access to any new bonus or promotion the CS:GO gambling site releases, giving new customers even more reasons to redeem the promo code and join the CSGORoll's family today. All readers interested in taking advantage of the new bonuses and promotions are invited to join CSGORoll today. The CS:GO gambling site invites all readers and players to follow them on their social media channels and communities to stay up to date with the latest promo codes, bonuses, promotions and announcements: Twitter: TikTok: Instagram: Kick: Discord: Support Email: support@ 'This new promo code is only the beginning of bigger, better things. We are sure 2025 is going to be the year CSGORoll becomes the most visited CS:GO gambling site in the world, and we are going to make it happen with the help of players by giving them the value and rewards they deserve. Stay tuned, because there's a lot more to come' — expressed CSGORoll's is strengthening its support for responsible gambling with the launch of the new promo code 'WRD100.' The platform includes helpful tools like deposit limits, session reminders, self-exclusion options, and links to support services. This initiative encourages safer play and helps users stay in control while enjoying the site. 'The new promo code unlocks a whole new set of opportunities for players, but at the same time, it is our responsibility to introduce new responsible gambling measures to promote a safe and fair online gaming experience' – concluded CSGORoll's spokesperson. Disclaimer The information presented in this article is provided for general informational and promotional purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, completeness, and timeliness, no guarantees are made regarding the reliability or correctness of the content. Readers should be aware that the CS:GO gambling landscape is constantly evolving, and promotional offers, features, or platforms may change without prior notice. The content may contain typographical errors, inaccuracies, or omissions. All information is presented 'as is,' without any representations or warranties, express or implied. Any reliance placed on such information is strictly at the reader's own risk. Online gambling, including CS:GO skin gambling, may be regulated or restricted in various jurisdictions. It is the sole responsibility of the reader to understand and comply with the laws and regulations in their own location before engaging in any form of online gambling activity. No element of this content should be interpreted as legal, financial, or gaming advice. Anyone considering participation in gambling should consult a qualified professional and use their own discretion. Furthermore, all mentions of bonuses, rewards, skins, or potential winnings are subject to the terms and conditions of the third-party platform (CSGORoll), and may be altered, suspended, or revoked by said platform at any time. This content does not constitute a direct or indirect endorsement of any gambling-related activity by any third party or distribution partner. The publishers, contributors, distribution partners, and all affiliated or associated individuals and entities expressly disclaim any and all liability for any loss, injury, or damages resulting from the use of the information contained herein, including but not limited to losses arising from gambling behavior, financial harm, or breach of regional laws. Affiliate Disclosure This article may contain affiliate links or promotional references, which means a commission or other compensation could be earned by the publisher or partners should readers choose to visit the linked site or use the promotional code provided. These affiliate arrangements do not impact the integrity or objectivity of the content presented. Any commissions generated through promotional links are reinvested into producing and syndicating valuable and informative content across a network of publishing platforms. The use of any affiliate code, including 'WRD100,' is completely voluntary and is offered as a courtesy for readers seeking additional benefits. The content has been designed to inform and educate readers, not to serve as an inducement or solicitation to gamble. All affiliate activities related to this publication comply with applicable guidelines and are disclosed in good faith in accordance with transparency best practices. CONTACT: Support Email: support@ in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Arab News
6 days ago
- Sport
- Arab News
Riyadh to host Apex Legends and FC Pro finals at Esports World Cup 2025
RIYADH: The Esports World Cup Foundation and Electronic Arts have confirmed that the Apex Legends Global Series Midseason Playoffs and the FC Pro World Championship for EA SPORTS FC 25 will take place this summer at the Esports World Cup 2025 in Riyadh. For the latest updates, follow us @ArabNewsSport The addition of two of EA's most prestigious competitive circuits further elevates the Esports World Cup's standing as a premier global platform for elite esports. Both tournaments have previously headlined packed arenas and now join a growing lineup that continues to attract the industry's most influential titles and top-tier talent. Apex Legends returns to Riyadh after a successful 2024 debut that featured a dramatic 13-game final in which 12 teams were still in contention for the title. The 2025 ALGS Midseason Playoffs will run from July 10-13, bringing 40 of the world's best squads to compete for a $2 million prize pool. The event opens with Pool Play on July 10 and 11, dividing teams into two groups of 20 for 10 matches. The top seven from each group will advance directly to the Match Point Finals on July 13. Teams ranked eighth to 17th will battle for the final six spots through the Last Chance Semifinals on July 12. The tournament winner will take home $600,000 and earn 1,000 valuable ALGS Championship Points toward year-end qualification. The FC Pro World Championship will be staged from Aug. 7-10, featuring the best EA SPORTS FC players competing for a $1.5 million prize pool. A Last Chance Qualifier will precede the main event from July 31 to Aug. 3, offering 512 participants a final shot at reaching the Play-Ins. From there, 48 players will contend for the last four spots in the championship. The Group Stage begins Aug. 7, with 32 players advancing into playoff action on Aug. 9. The tournament concludes on Aug. 10 with the quarterfinals, semifinals, a third-place match and the grand final. The eventual champion will claim $250,000. The return of the Last Chance Qualifier follows one of the most memorable stories from EWC 2024, when Joao 'jafonsogv' Vasconcelos made an incredible run from qualifier to champion. With more than 500 players expected to take part in this year's LCQ, the stakes are higher than ever. Among the returning stars will be defending champion Anders Vejrgang, who headlines a field representing some of the world's most prominent football and esports clubs. 'The ALGS and FC Pro are two of the most competitive and globally recognized circuits in esports,' said Fabian Scheuermann, chief games officer at the Esports World Cup Foundation. 'Together with EA, we're opening doors for players at every level — from grassroots to elite — to compete on the world's biggest stage. We're looking forward to football and esports clubs coming together at the Esports World Cup through FC Pro, and excited to bring ALGS to Riyadh after the incredible response last year. This is the future of esports as a global sport — and we're just getting started.' The 2025 edition of the Esports World Cup will bring together 2,000 top players and 200 clubs from more than 100 countries. More than 25 tournaments will be contested across 24 different games, with a combined prize pool exceeding $70 million — the largest in esports history.
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First Post
22-05-2025
- Sport
- First Post
Arjun Erigaisi becomes first Indian chess player to qualify for upcoming Esports World Cup
Indian Grandmaster Arjun Erigaisi, who had joined leading Esports organisation Gen.G in February, secured his qualification for the second edition of the Esports World Cup by qualifying for the playoffs of the Classic, the second event of the Champions Chess Tour. read more Arjun Erigaisi became the first Indian chess player to qualify for the Esports World Cup that will be taking place in Saudi Arabia later this year. The 21-year-old Grandmaster confirmed his participation in the upcoming event by finishing among the top 12 players in the Champions Chess Tour. Arjun confirmed his ticket to the Saudi capital, which will be hosting the second edition of the Esports World Cup from 8 July to 24 August this year, by advancing to the playoffs of the Classic – the second event of the Champions Chess Tour that got underway on Sunday and will conclude on Saturday. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD How Arjun secured his qualification for the Esports World Cup Arjun had already collected 40 CCT points with a semi-final finish in the Chessable Masters event that took place in February, where he lost to eventual champion Magnus Carlsen. And by advancing to the playoffs of the Classic, Arjun ensured that he finishes among the top 12 in the CCT leaderboard. A total of 16 players will be participating in chess section of the Esports World Cup ; while 12 players qualify on the basis of their standings, the remaining four will have to confirm their place in the tournament by participating in a 'Last Chance Qualifier'. Polish GM Jan-Krzysztof Duda too confirmed his participation at the EWC along with Arjun by entering the Classic playoffs in addition to collecting 50 points in the first leg of the tour. World No 1 Carlsen as well as Hikaru Nakamura and Ian Nepomniachtchi had already qualified for the World Cup before the second leg of the tour even began. Exclusive | Arjun Erigaisi 'excited' to participate in ESports World Cup: 'It will open many doors' Reigning world champion D Gukesh received a direct invitation into the Classic playoffs, only to lose to Slovenian GM Vladimir Fedoseev, who had won the Swiss round of the tournament with 7.5 points out of 9. He would lose his subsequent match in the loser's bracket against Arjun, who in turn would get vanquished by French GM Maxime Vachier-Lagrave in his subsequent game. Arjun and Gukesh weren't the only Indians competing in the second leg of the Champions Chess Tour though, with R Praggnanandhaa, Vidit Gujrathi, Nihal Sarin and M Pranesh having also taken part. Arjun, incidentally, was also among the first chess players to join an Esports organisation, having signed with Gen.G in February. Nihal and Aravindh Chithambaram would join Indian Esports organisation S8UL a couple of months later. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD
Globe and Mail
15-05-2025
- Business
- Globe and Mail
Moving iMage Technologies Reports Revenue of $3.57M, Improved Q3 Gross Profit and Reduced Net Loss; Net Cash Steady at $5.4M at Quarter End
Fountain Valley, California--(Newsfile Corp. - May 15, 2025) - Moving iMage Technologies, Inc. (NYSE American: MITQ), a leading provider of cutting-edge out-of-home entertainment technology and services for cinema, Esports, stadiums and arenas, announced results for its third quarter ended March 31, 2025 (Q3'25) and will hold an investor call today at 11am ET (see call details below). Q3'25 Highlights Q3'25 revenue declined 8.2% to $3.571M vs. $3.890M in Q3'24, principally due to customer delays in the commencement of several projects that are now expected later in Q4'25 or FY 2026. Q3'25 gross profit dollars increased $387K to $1.063M vs. $676K in Q3'24, reflecting the benefit of a focus on higher margin project and product opportunities as well as the impact of lower margin cinema facilities equipment sales and certain inventory reserves in Q3'24. Q3'25 gross margin percentage increased to 29.8% vs. 17.4% in Q3'24 due to the absence of lower margin cinema facilities equipment revenue in Q3'24. Q3'25 operating loss improved to ($270K) vs. ($649K) in Q3'24, principally reflecting the gross margin improvement. Q3'25 net loss improved to ($240K), or ($0.02) per share, vs. ($601K) or ($0.06) per share, in Q3'24. Net cash steady at $5.4M, or approximately $0.54 per common share, and there was no long-term debt as of 3/31/25. Moving Image Chairman and CEO, Phil Rafnson, commented, "In the face of business and economic uncertainties impacting our customers' near-term spending decisions, we remain focused on building our project pipeline with new and existing customers while also working to reduce expenses, focus on higher margin opportunities and preserving our cash position. Despite these transitory impacts, we remain confident in the substantial longer term business potential of the cinema technology refresh cycle involving the replacement of thousands of legacy cinema projectors and sound systems with state-of-the-art laser projectors and updated sound systems over the next few years." President and COO, Francois Godfrey, added, "Ongoing customer dialogues confirm the need, customer experience and operating cost benefits of new laser projection systems. Further, our team's long-term experience, strong reputation and unrivaled ability to design and execute projects in any entertainment environment positions us well to earn a significant share of this activity. A perfect example was the decision to select Moving iMage to design and implement a state-of-the-art, seven-screen theater complex at Cannon Beach in Arizona. We expect installation work to commence early in fiscal 2026 and are very proud to play a defining role in this unique, complex and high-profile project with outstanding business partners." "We came away from CinemaCon in late April with new relationships, opportunities and ideas to maximize efficiencies and are proud to repeatedly overdeliver on client needs from coast to coast. Recent new business wins include a $9M projector technology refresh contract spread over three years for an important long-term exhibition customer, the Cannon Beach project mentioned by Phil, and several other pending turnkey cinema deployments. "While current economic uncertainties are slowing the pace of projects and customer decision making, we have built a base of $8M to $9M in largely recurring annual revenue, a solid pipeline of contracted projects and a significant number of opportunities in development, most of which we expect in fiscal 2026 or future years. We are focused on the things that we can control, principally our overhead, product and service margins and pace of investment, to ensure that we remain well positioned to pursue growth opportunities and make progress on our goal to move the business to positive cash flow and profitability. "We currently expect Q4'25 revenue of approximately $5.2M, as a result of some larger FY 2025 projects getting pushed into FY 2026, and solid progress in the reduction of our net loss on a sequential and year-over-year basis. Looking into FY 2026, while we are encouraged by the recent box office gains, we look forward to our customers updating their auditoriums with higher image quality and lower total cost of ownership of new cinema systems." Conference Call Details Dial-in Number: 1-877-407-4018 Toll/International Number: 1-201-689-8471 Call me™: Participants can use Guest dial-in numbers above and be answered by an operator OR click the Call me™ Link for instant telephone access to the event. Call me™ link will be made active 15 minutes prior to scheduled start time. Transcript: Posted online here 48 hours after the event Questions can be submitted in advance via Email to: mitq@ Telephone Replay Access ID: 13753795 Replay Dial-In: 1-844-512-2921 or 1-412-317-6671 Replay Expiration: Thursday May 29, 2025 at 11:59 p.m. ET Forward-Looking Statements All statements above that are not purely about historical facts, including, but not limited to, those in which we use the words "believe," "anticipate," "expect," "plan," "intend," "estimate," "target" and similar expressions, are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. While these forward-looking statements represent our current judgment of what may happen in the future, actual results may differ materially from the results expressed or implied by these statements due to numerous important factors. Our filings with the SEC provide detailed information on such statements and risks and should be consulted along with this release. To the extent permitted under applicable law, we assume no obligation to update any forward-looking statements. About Moving iMage Technologies ( With a focus on innovation, service, and quality, Moving iMage Technologies ("MiT") is a trusted partner in delivering state-of-the-art out-of-home entertainment environments. Founded in 2003, MiT provides products, integrated systems design, custom engineering, proprietary products, software, and installation services for cinemas, screening rooms, postproduction facilities, high-end home theaters, Esports venues, arenas, stadiums, and other entertainment spaces. MiT manufactures a broad line of digital cinema peripherals in the U.S., including automation systems, projector pedestals/bases, projector lifts, hush boxes, direct-view LED frames, lighting fixtures and dimmers, power management devices, operations software, and Esports platforms. It also distributes and integrates cinema equipment from Barco, Sharp (NEC) Digital Cinema, Christie Digital, LEA Professional, Dolby, GDC, JBL/Crown, LG, Meyer Sound, Q-SYS, QSC, Samsung and others. MiT's Caddy Products division designs and sells cupholders, concession trays, and venue accessories that enhance concession sales and improve the guest experience. MOVING IMAGE TECHNOLOGIES, INC. CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (in thousands except share and per share amounts) March 31, June 30, 2025 2024 (unaudited) Assets Current Assets: Cash $ 5,369 $ 5,278 Accounts receivable, net 940 1,048 Inventories, net 3,065 3,117 Prepaid expenses and other 241 470 Total Current Assets 9,615 9,913 Long-Term Assets: Right-of-use asset 1,142 144 Property and equipment, net 18 28 Intangibles, net 378 422 Other assets 15 16 Total Long-Term Assets 1,553 610 Total Assets $ 11,168 $ 10,523 Liabilities And Stockholders' Equity Current Liabilities: Accounts payable $ 2,745 $ 2,261 Accrued expenses 351 320 Customer refunds 288 399 Customer deposits 1,534 1,651 Lease liability-current 219 151 Unearned warranty revenue 53 31 Total Current Liabilities 5,190 4,813 Long-Term Liabilities: Lease liability-non-current 979 - Total Long-Term Liabilities 979 - Total Liabilities 6,169 4,813 Stockholders' Equity Common stock, $0.00001 par value, 100,000,000 shares authorized, 9,933,679 and 9,896,850 shares issued and outstanding at March 31, 2025 and June 30, 2024, respectively - - Additional paid-in capital 12,047 11,965 Accumulated deficit (7,048) (6,255) Total Stockholders' Equity 4,999 5,710 Total Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity $ 11,168 $ 10,523 The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements. MOVING IMAGE TECHNOLOGIES, INC. (in thousands except share and per share amounts) (unaudited) Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended March 31, March 31, 2025 2024 2025 2024 Net sales $ 3,571 $ 3,890 $ 12,264 $ 13,790 Cost of goods sold 2,508 3,214 8,894 10,536 Gross profit 1,063 676 3,370 3,254 Operating expenses: Research and development 49 73 157 212 Selling and marketing 429 547 1,421 1,717 General and administrative 855 705 2,691 2,421 Total operating expenses 1,333 1,325 4,269 4,350 Operating (loss) (270) (649) (899) (1,096) Other income (expense) Interest and other income, net 30 48 107 140 Total other income 30 48 107 140 Net (loss) $ (240) $ (601) $ (792) $ (956) Weighted average shares outstanding: basic and diluted 9,911,015 10,436,519 9,901,554 10,593,229 Net (loss) income per common share basic and diluted $ (0.02) $ (0.06) $ (0.08) $ (0.09) The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements. Nine Months Ended March 31 2025 2024 Cash flows from operating activities: Net (loss) $ (792) $ (956) Adjustments to reconcile net (loss) to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities: Provision for credit losses 59 (52) Inventory reserve 277 433 Depreciation expense 10 9 Amortization expense 44 43 Right-of-use amortization 197 201 Stock option compensation expense 59 15 Stock issued for director expenses 23 13 Changes in operating assets and liabilities Accounts receivable 50 67 Inventories (226) (234) Prepaid expenses and other 230 (487) Accounts payable 484 (50) Accrued expenses and customer refunds (81) 129 Unearned warranty revenue 22 26 Customer deposits (117) 726 Lease liabilities (148) (207) Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities 91 (324) Cash flows from investing activities Purchases of property and equipment - (12) Net cash (used in) investing activities - (12) Cash flows from financing activities Stock Buyback - (334) Net cash (used in) financing activities - (334) Net increase (decrease) in cash 91 (670) Cash, beginning of the period 5,278 6,616 Cash, end of the period $ 5,369 $ 5,946 Non-cash investing and financing activities: Right-of-use assets from new lease $ (207) $ - Right-of-use assets from lease modification $ (988) $ - The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.
Globe and Mail
13-05-2025
- Sport
- Globe and Mail
Edmonton school's e-sports athletes go mouse-to-mouse with province's best
There were no balls, pucks, sticks or high-performance shoes for the athletes. Instead, there were desktops, laptops, ergonomic keyboards and very large mouse pads. Inside the computer lab at Vimy Ridge Academy in Edmonton, athletes prepared for the tournament of the year. They had spent months getting ready for the Alberta Esports Championship, a provincewide video-game competition for high-school and junior-high students. With more than 200 competitors representing 27 schools playing three different games, the tournament bills itself as the largest of its kind in Canada. And where many similar tournaments are held online, this one, held in Calgary May 10-11, was an in-person affair, with teams duking it out face-to-face in front of a crowd. 'This would be the big one,' said Travis Bouchard, the director of Vimy's e-sports academy ahead of the competition. The high school was hoping for a strong performance this year – especially since standing out in big tournaments can help open doors to postsecondary schools. Across the country at high schools, universities and colleges, competitive video gaming is becoming commonplace. The University of Waterloo and Arcadia University in Pennsylvania, among others, all boast e-sports programs and offer scholarships – sometimes even full rides – for e-sports athletes. A multibillion-dollar industry, e-sports are expected to continue to grow in popularity. Valorant, a first-person shooter game at the Calgary tournament, boasts more than 35 million players, with championship matches garnering millions of views online and offering lucrative prizes. That growth has prompted the creation of several leagues in Canada. In Ontario, Lakehead Public Schools launched its own e-sports league. In B.C., Grand Forks Secondary School sent a team of students to compete in Hawaii last July. At Vimy Ridge, Mr. Bouchard hopes he can create an environment where some of his students can one day go pro – or at least pay for school through e-sports. But like any sport, getting to that point requires hard work. With programs in hockey, lacrosse, baseball and other sports, Vimy Ridge Academy is no stranger to producing top talent. Stuart Skinner, the starting goaltender for the Edmonton Oilers, walked the halls. As did 2025 Stanley Cup hopeful Sam Steel of the Dallas Stars. Mr. Bouchard launched the e-sports academy two years ago. The first class had just 14 students; now, in its third year, it's 30 strong. Unlike schools that may have an e-sports club or team, Vimy's program is built into the daily routine. As a sports-focused school, most students spend half their days in academics and the other half training in their sport. In addition to gaming skills, e-sports teams also work on their physical fitness, with everything from weight training to spin classes and yoga. In the week before the big tournament, fitness training took up half the students' time. On the day before this year's competition, the Valorant team was drilled by support coach Jackson 'Jax' Reid on 'sayings to live by.' One such phrase: 'Play safe when you're ahead,' a common refrain in many sports. 'Discipline is important,' Mr. Reid advised, adding that even his university-level team struggles with it. Like hockey, Valorant involves teams of five. Players score a point either by planting a bomb, if they're the attackers, preventing a plant if they're defenders or eliminating all enemy combatants. In such shooting games, which simulate highly sophisticated gunplay, learning how to aim and 'peek' corners takes countless hours of tedious drills to master. While scrimmaging – basically a practice session – Joaquin Lafuente, 17, jerked his computer mouse quickly one way, then slowly brought it back, before repeating the motion, trying to achieve an economy of movement. Above him on a wall, a sign warned about common e-sports injuries that can affect the neck, eyes and wrists. The big mouse pad suddenly made sense. 'I had to take a two-week break' after last year's tournament, Mr. Lafuente said. Not because of physical injuries, though. As a member of the Valorant team, he's well aware of the burnout that can come with playing a game five days a week, nine months a year. He said he was looking forward to this year's tournament. His teammate Cam Cairns said it's always fun to play against good teams. Outside the game, Mr. Cairns is a quiet, shy kid, but his friends don't hesitate to boast about his skill. In Valorant's ranking system, the 16-year-old is Platinum 3, which places him in the top 21 per cent of all players. He also plays a position called initiator, which is known for bombastic, high-stakes plays. 'A lot of our success happens to root from him,' Mr. Lafuente said. Mr. Cairns has already had a few postsecondary schools approach him about his future. But in the meantime, he's just focused on the fun of it. 'There's a solid chunk of my day that's devoted to playing video games every day, which is pretty neat.' Before joining the Vimy program, Mr. Lafuente said, he had little in common with his peers. Joining the team introduced him to like-minded people with an interest in gaming. For Mr. Cairns, it's a similar story. E-sports has improved his communication skills and helped him build friendships. In the end, the team from Lethbridge Collegiate Institute won the Valorant tournament, and Vimy tied for fifth place after getting knocked out in the quarter-finals. Mr. Bouchard said he was happy with the results.
