To many people’s knowledge, esports and first person shooters are no stranger to each other. From Goldeneye 007 to Overwatch, first person shooters have evolved overtime and have attracted many young players to the genre. Infamous games such as Battlefield and Call of Duty have brought historical and future wartime simulations and the best players have mastered the strategy behind the game. The US Air Force has recognized these players talents as they highlight key skills and strategies that they teach new recruits, but in video game form. Strategies such as calling orders, communicating situations and status, and working as a unit to achieve a goal are highly taught skills in the US military. Counter Strike, being one of the most recognized esports, was selected as the USAF’s first step.

The USAF has chosen to sponsor ELeague, the North American esports organization Cloud 9’s Counter Strike: Global Offensive team. The ELeague has welcomed them with open arms as they have appreciated the values of the Air Force and the service of the men and women involved. The partnership seems to be a valuable one in terms of cementing esports in the public eye. With more official exposure and a sponsor like the USAF, esports will surely be recognized as important to the culture of today’s youth.