IMG is tapping into its pre-existing portfolio of resources at Bradenton, Fla.-based IMG Academy, announcing a week-long esports boot camp around Counter-Strike: Global Offensive. It’ll come with a starting price tag of $1,999.
The camp, which spans July 30 to Aug. 5, will be open to individuals aged 12-18 and feature professional CS:GO game instructors in addition to staffers from IMG Academy, which houses the Gatorade Sports Science Institute. IMG Academy currently focuses on training, nutrition, reaction times and fitness for middle school and high school athletes.
“We are excited to expand IMG’s esports portfolio with the debut of a unique camp experience at IMG Academy,” Lilia Russo, Director of Esports Strategy and Engagement at IMG, said in a statement. “Following the success of our professional development programs with FaZe Clan and compLexity, we are thrilled to continue supporting the growth of the esports industry by welcoming amateurs looking to gain a competitive edge and a well-rounded approach to gaming.”
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Added Spencer “Hiko” Martin, a professional CS:GO player in a statement: “IMG’s esports camp for CS:GO players seems like the perfect opportunity for kids to experience professional esports from an inside point of view. Having something like this when I was younger would have really kick started my professional career. I look forward to participating in this and encourage people to give it a try.”
Martin in addition to Alexander “Kassad” Trifunovic and Eric “adreN” Hoag will serve as professional game instructors as they lead campers in accuracy, map awareness, positioning and other strategic situations. IMG performance staffers will also run participants through mental and physical conditioning sessions, leadership development and nutrition seminars. Included with one’s attendance is access to IMG’s esports platform (Boomeo.com) that will feature training content for CS:GO.
As part of the larger WME | IMG sports and entertainment agency, esports has been a focal point over the past 18 months through brand and property consulting, representation and athlete development training. The agency partnered with Turner Sports for the Atlanta-based ELEAGUE that kicked off last year. In addition, WME | IMG has facilitated esports ownership deals for former NBA forward/guard Rick Fox, Boston Celtics forward Jonas Jerebko and the Philadelphia 76ers, who became the first U.S. professional sports franchise to purchase esports teams in 2016.