There's a misconception in the esports industry that every single person who works in the field also excels at gaming-- as if it is a prerequisite. Just because the best of the best are performing on stage under the bright lights, doesn't mean those who work behind the scenes or on the casting desk can play at a Grand Master level.

In fact, it's quite the opposite.

A large number of individuals who have found success in the esports space actually stink at the games they love. Does it help if the General Manager of an esports organization can play at a high-level? Sort of. Does it make him any less qualified for the job if he isn't? Nope.

At the InvenGlobal Esports Conference [IGEC], you'll hear from a handful of individuals from around the world and esports space who have found their niche, ran with it and succeeded without being all that great at the games they love.

The Panelists

Jared Jeffries was named Echo Fox President in July 13, 2017. In this role, he is actively involved in roster selection and team management, player recruiting, hiring and managing team coaches and GMs and overseeing player training, health and wellness programs. He'll also works in Echo Fox brand building, including overseeing the streaming platforms, social media efforts and sponsor and advertiser relationships

Costume creator, FITNESS SUPERSTAR and fan-pop culture powerhouse, Alicia Marie, discovered fitness at the age of eight after spotting a comic book shot of DC Comic’s Wonder Woman kicking the pants off some villains – in star-studded booty shorts. Alicia is a published author (THE BOOTY BIBLE ), she stars in her own workout DVD series, (The 30-Day BUTTLIFT - Lionsgate), she is a television and multi-media fitness personality (MTV), a 70-time national and international magazine cover model and a professional cosplayer and costume and prop-crafter. A gamer and lover of all things FG, MOBA and "RPG," Alicia was an inspiration concept model for video game characters such as Wonder Woman (Injustice 2) and Mileena (Mortal Kombat) and she has lent her facial features for various character creation concepts for aliens in video games, androids and even zombies for Xbox. 

Chris Puckett is a Hall of Fame Broadcaster and North American esports pioneer with over 15 years of experience in the field. Prior to hosting the Overwatch League, his long list of accomplishments include being an esports commentator for the Call of Duty franchise and creating his foundation in the HALO scene.

Moderating the panel is Trisha Hershberger, a tech & gaming host, and producer who has been featured on channels such as IGN, Rhett & Link, The Philip Defranco Show, Epic Meal Time, The Fine Bros, ScreenJunkies, Smosh & more.

This panel will take place at 5:00pm in Crystal Cove of the University of California Irvine's Conference Center. Feel free to check out more of the IGEC panels here: https://www.invenglobal.com/igec/panels.