Gannon University to welcome region’s first high school eSports invitational in August

In partnership with Velocity Network, Inc. (VNET) and Northwest Tri-County Intermediate Unit 5 (IU5), Gannon University will be hosting the inaugural Flagship City Esports Invitational: “The Battle of Lake Erie.” The tournament will take place on August 19–20, 2023 at Gannon’s Recreational and Wellness Center — coinciding with CelebrateErie and Gannon’s welcome week.

“In Erie County and across the country, fiber is every gamer’s number-one choice for high-speed internet,” said Joel Deuterman, President and CEO of VNET. “The Flagship City Esports Invitational will put Erie on the esports map and VNET is proud to be able to provide local gamers a unique opportunity to showcase their skills through the unmatched benefits of broadband.

“We look forward to welcoming high school gamers, Gannon University students, and the Erie community for the first of what we hope will become an exciting annual event.”

Prior to Aug. 19, a virtual tournament will take place July 22 and 23, with the qualifying players advancing to the in-person championships competing on stage and on stream.

Following that virtual tournament, the official Battle of Lake Erie tournament will then kick off on Aug. 19 with gamers representing regional high schools located in the IU5. Battling it out in Super Smash Bros and Rocket League, gamers will have the opportunity to claim the official gamer title and other exciting prizes. Continuing the excitement on Sunday, Aug. 20, Gannon University students and the general public will take the stage to compete in Rocket League, Super Smash Bros and Mario Kart.