The Detroit Red Wings are one of three NHL franchises participating in a gaming pilot program — Game On: An NHL/NHLPA Scholastic Gaming Initiative — designed to inspire the next generation of hockey fans through competitive esports and skill-building activities.
Launched by Los Angeles-based PlayVS, a leading amateur esports platform, the initiative is funded by the NHL/NHLPA Industry Growth Fund (IGF) with the goal of promoting access, inclusion, and connection through gaming.
In addition, the new initiative will provide young players the chance to engage with their local NHL teams. The New Jersey Devils and Los Angeles Kings also are participating in the pilot.
As part of the pilot, players between 13-21 years old will not only be able to participate in competition, but also will engage in positive, structured gameplay that promotes leadership, teamwork, and critical thinking skills that are crucial both on and off the virtual rink.
The program’s focus on healthy competition, social connection, and digital literacy is aimed at helping players build essential life skills while fostering a sense of community through gaming.
High schools also will take part in club-specific activations throughout the spring season, including in-person events and student engagement experiences with the NHL franchises.
The first activation took place on March 20 with the New Jersey Devils as part of the team’s Devils Gaming Group Theme Night, where 40 students and coaches were hosted at the Devils Gaming Group Lounge at Prudential Center to play EA SPORTS NHL 25 including special guest appearances by New Jersey Devils executives, alumni, and the NJ Devil mascot.
To cap off the season, PlayVS will host a virtual national EA SPORTS NHL 25 tournament from June 13-15, offering players in the U.S. the chance to compete for top honors and connect with peers across the country. Registration is open through PlayVS’ Stadium platform.
“Gaming has the power to bring today’s young players together in ways that are both meaningful and lasting,” says Jon Chapman, CEO of PlayVS. “Through this partnership with the NHL/NHLPA’s Industry Growth Fund, we’re not only creating new opportunities for players to engage with their favorite sport but also helping them develop critical life skills — like leadership, communication, and resilience — through healthy competition.”
PlayVS says it views the pilot with the IGF as the first step in a broader effort to create dynamic esports opportunities for students across North America.
The program seeks to expand access to esports and further the positive impact it has on students by providing new avenues for social interaction, academic improvement, and skill development.
For more information, visit playvs.com.
