Staff Reports | Happenings & Events
Arizona’s Children Association will partner with Grand Canyon University Esports and the Arizona Cardinals to host the third annual Gaming for Arizona’s Children event on Saturday, Nov. 14, and Sunday, Nov. 15.
The two-day esports competition will bring together gamers from across Arizona while raising support for children and families served by Arizona’s Children Association, according to a press release. A portion of every ticket sold will benefit the organization’s programs and services.
The event will feature competitions in Super Smash Bros., Rocket League and Marvel Rivals. Players will compete Saturday, Nov. 14, at Grand Canyon University, with top competitors advancing to championship finals Sunday, Nov. 15, at State Farm Stadium before the Arizona Cardinals face the Los Angeles Rams.
“Gaming for Arizona’s Children demonstrates how play can be a powerful tool for connection. For many children in foster care, gaming provides a way to stay connected with friends, siblings, and supportive adults when other parts of their lives are changing, creating moments of stability, belonging, and hope,” Tracy Thurston, president and chief executive officer of Arizona’s Children Association, said.
“We’re grateful to GCU and the Arizona Cardinals for helping us support children and families across Arizona.”
Registered tournament participants will receive entry into one competition and a ticket to the Cardinals-Rams game. Participants will also be eligible for championship prizes and a postgame photo opportunity on the stadium field. Reserved seating will allow teammates, coaches, family members and supporters to attend the game together.
The event will also provide young adults in the organization’s Successful Transition to Adulthood program with opportunities to shadow GCU staff members and learn about esports production, event operations and related career paths.
Gaming for Arizona’s Children also has personal meaning for Jay DeShong, director of esports at Grand Canyon University. Adopted by his grandparents after experiencing instability and the loss of his mother at a young age, Mr. DeShong helped establish the event to raise awareness and support for children and families facing similar challenges.
“I didn’t have an easy start, but I had people who believed in me,” Mr. DeShong said. “Now I get to be part of an event that gives kids support, community and a look at a future they might not have imagined for themselves.”
