Over the years, there has been a distinct growth in population of gamers. This growth in population has led to newer opportunities. With a high interest in video game participation and the enjoyment of video game streaming, eSports provides engaging experiences that reconstructs the way one views sporting events.
This year at SXSW, The eSports Gamification of Real Sports panel will discuss the evolution of traditional sports to eSports. Adrienne Lawrence, a broadcast talent from both traditional sports and Madden League, will host this panel along with co-founder of Fan Controlled Football League (FCFL) Patrick Dees, Emmy-winning producer Ariel Horn, and NFL veteran Chad “Ocho Cinco” Johnson.
Lawrence has been on all sides of the sporting spectrum. For many years, she reported from the sideline for Madden NFL, ESPN’s SportCenter and ESPN2, as well as informing audiences on ESPNRadio, ESPNW and ESPN.com.
Before discovering her passion for sports news and media, Lawrence was a practicing attorney. She utilizes her background in law to confront the legal issues that are a result of law and sports.
What sparked your interest in sports news and media?
“Sports have always been a passion of mine. Sharing that passion with others is rewarding in its own. Also, as a lover of sports and an attorney, I relish the opportunity to provide fans with knowledge on legal issues that intersect with sports so that the fans have a better understanding of a matter that impacts something dear to their hearts.”
What does the future of eSports look like?
“As eSports continues to evolve, it will begin to take on more of the features of the sports business. We’ll see TV promos, regulations, sponsorship deals, marketing campaigns, etc. We’ll also see a more diverse range of athletes, who may not have the physical athleticism to compete on the actual field but do have other skills that allow them to excel at the controller. This creates opportunities for those who’ve historically been discouraged or excluded from competing, such as women, certain minority groups, those with physical limitations.”
What do you expect traditional sports operators and broadcasters to gain from the experiences of eSports?
“Those who’ve worked in traditional sports broadcast will gain a more open mind when it comes to athleticism and skillsets. They’ll appreciate and observe a new type of athlete and competition. Also, experiences in eSports will give broadcasters and operators more opportunity to share their knowledge and love of all sports with this world.”
For more information about this topic, please visit the panel on Friday, March 8 at 2 p.m. at the JW Marriott Salon 1-2.