If you know me, you already know—I love esports and want to see the industry grow the right way. To do that, we need more local, youth-focused competitions that give young players a real chance to compete, connect, and develop. While there are plenty of esports events in North Carolina, most are fighting game tournaments or adult-oriented. There are very few options exclusively for youth, and that’s something we wanted to change.
That’s how the idea for the NC Esports Cup was born.
What Is the NC Esports Cup?
The NC Esports Cup will be the first annual, statewide youth esports competition in North Carolina, open to all young gamers across the state (and yes, out-of-state players are welcome too!).
The goal is to give players a chance to:
- Test their skills against others in their age group
- Gain exposure to brand partnerships, colleges, and career opportunities
- Experience esports in a structured, professional, and encouraging environment
It’s not just about who wins, it’s about helping young players grow and see how far they can go in a supportive, community-driven setting.
Event Details
🗓 Dates: May 16–17, 2026
📍 Location: Hosted by North Carolina Esports Academy
🎮 Games Featured:
- Super Smash Bros. Ultimate – May 16
- Fortnite – May 17
The winners from each game will earn a spot in the Amateur Esports Association’s 2026 All American Nationals, representing North Carolina at the national level.
But the event won’t just be about competition, we will also host an esports education panel and announce the 2026 NC Esports Awards to celebrate achievements across the local gaming community.
Why It Matters
Events like this help lay the foundation for the future of youth esports in North Carolina. They show that gaming can be more than just a hobby; it can be a pathway to learning, leadership, and teamwork.
By keeping the focus on youth development, community, and opportunity, the NC Esports Cup is designed to be fun, educational, and sustainable—the three pillars that drive everything we do at North Carolina Esports Academy.
We’re excited to make this an annual event that grows year after year and continues to showcase the incredible talent of North Carolina’s young gamers.
