PlayVS, the leading amateur esports platform, announced the launch of a new 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 in three key NHL Club markets–home to the New Jersey Devils, Los Angeles Kings, and Detroit Red Wings as well as in a national, virtual EA SPORTS NHL 25 tournament.

The initiative, funded by the NHL/NHLPA Industry Growth Fund (IGF), is designed to promote access, inclusion, and connection through gaming, while giving young players the chance to engage with their local NHL teams in exciting, interactive ways.

As part of the pilot, players between 13-21 years old will not only be able to participate in the competition, but will also 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 will also 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, Devils Alumni and Mascot NJ Devil.

To cap off the season, PlayVS will host a virtual national EA SPORTS NHL 25 tournament from June 13-15, offering players in the US the chance to compete for top honors and connect with peers across the country. Registration for the tournament will open through PlayVS’ Stadium platform in mid-May.

“Gaming has the power to bring today’s young players together in ways that are both meaningful and lasting. 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. We’re excited to continue expanding access to competitive gaming and making esports and gaming a core part of the school experience,” said Jon Chapman, CEO of PlayVS.

SlotCycle, a leading platform for the resale and repurposing of gaming equipment, announced that it has joined the Association of Gaming Equipment Manufacturers (AGEM)—the premier international trade association representing manufacturers and suppliers of electronic gaming devices, lotteries, systems, table games, key components, and support products and services for the global gaming industry.

By joining AGEM, SlotCycle becomes part of a network of over 160 member companies across 22 countries, all committed to driving innovation, regulatory progress, and responsible growth within the gaming sector.

Jeff Jordan, CEO of SlotCycle, said: “Joining AGEM represents an important step in SlotCycle’s mission to modernize how the gaming industry manages its equipment lifecycle. Our goal is to bring greater transparency, trust, and operational efficiency to the resale and repurposing of gaming assets. Through our digital marketplace and full-service logistics center, we empower buyers and sellers to navigate the secondary market with confidence. AGEM’s leadership in fostering collaboration, innovation, and responsible practices makes it a natural partner for our vision of a more sustainable and accessible gaming ecosystem. We’re excited to contribute to its efforts and to help shape the future of gaming.”

Daron Dorsey, President & CEO of AGEM, said: “We are pleased to welcome SlotCycle into AGEM’s diverse membership. Their unique approach to the secondary market for gaming equipment brings a fresh perspective to our collective efforts. SlotCycle’s commitment to sustainability and innovation complements AGEM’s mission to support the global gaming supplier sector. We anticipate their active participation in our initiatives and value the expertise they bring to our community.”

SlotCycle’s membership reinforces its commitment to promoting sustainable practices and collaborative development across the gaming industry. Through this partnership, the company will support AGEM’s global efforts to advance the interests of gaming equipment suppliers via political action, regulatory engagement, trade show partnerships, educational initiatives, information sharing, and good corporate citizenship.

Lottery.com Inc., a leading technology company in digital lottery, sports and entertainment, announced the appointment of Marc Bircham to its Board of Directors as an Executive Director.

Currently serving as Director of Sports.com since March 2024, Bircham has played an instrumental role in advancing the Company’s expansion into global sports media and football club acquisitions. A UEFA Pro License holder, he has held senior coaching and managerial roles in England, Ireland, Italy, US, Canada, and the Caribbean.

Bircham is widely regarded as a Queens Park Rangers (QPR) legend and one of the most iconic figures in the club’s history. With over 300 professional appearances and 21 international caps for Canada, Bircham transitioned from an illustrious playing career into a dynamic and globally respected football executive and coach.

“Marc has made a tremendous impact at Sports.com, bringing deep industry knowledge, international experience, and a passion for innovation. His appointment to the Lottery.com Board reflects our confidence in his strategic leadership as we continue our international expansion across the sports, gaming, and entertainment sectors. Marc has demonstrated this year that he is a true leader—both on and off the pitch,” said Matthew McGahan, Chairman and CEO of Lottery.com.

Throughout his coaching career, Bircham has led top-tier programs including QPR, Como 1907 in Italy’s Serie B, Waterford FC in Ireland, and the Bahamas National Team. He was instrumental in signing global stars such as Cesc Fàbregas and Eberechi Eze and has been consistently recognized for transforming clubs operating under financial constraints and for nurturing youth talent—including England international Raheem Sterling.

Bircham said: “It’s an honor to be appointed to the Lottery.com Board of Directors. I believe in the Company’s vision and the power of uniting lottery, sports and entertainment into a global digital ecosystem. I’m excited to help shape the future of the Company and contribute to its continued growth.”