Albany County Executive Daniel P. McCoy joined with representatives of the Innovation Partnership—a joint effort between Albany County and MVP Health Care—to announce the launch of a new 12-week STEM Esports Program through the Albany County Parks and Recreation Department.

“Esports is more than just gaming, it’s an entry point into technology careers, a driver of teamwork and leadership skills, and a rapidly growing industry with real opportunities. This investment ensures that young people, regardless of their financial background, have the opportunity to develop valuable STEM skills while engaging in an activity they are passionate about. This program reflects Albany County’s commitment to youth engagement, ensuring that gaming is not just a hobby but a gateway to learning and success,” said Albany County Executive Daniel P. McCoy.

“At MVP Health Care, we believe in the power of technology and teamwork to shape the future and improve outcomes for the communities we serve," said MVP Health Care's Chief Digital & Information Officer, Michael Della Villa. “By supporting this Esports program alongside our partners, Albany County, we are helping to level the playing field and ensure that all students, regardless of their background, have the chance to develop valuable STEM skills and pursue their passions. We are so proud that together, we are fostering a community of future leaders and innovators.”

The program will provide students with access to state-of-the-art equipment and an immersive experience in esports while developing related skills such as broadcasting, coaching, and marketing. Participants will engage in activities to create and manage their own esports organization, focusing on branding, logo design, and social media management. They will also learn about online bullying, responsible gaming habits, and how to promote positive online communities. This program is backed by Claim to Fame Entertainment L.L.C the first dedicated business to the esports community in Upstate New York and a STEM.org accredited educator.

“When we started Claim to Fame, our goal was to bring awareness to careers in the gaming industry. This program and partnership with Albany County and MVP health is a great way achieve this our goal,” said Claim to Fame L.L.C CEO Michael Crossman.

“We are proud to partner with Albany County Executive Daniel McCoy and we are looking forward to building the best esport program in the state,” said Claim to Fame L.L.C CFO & VDO Gaming & Esports Education Owner John Crossman.

Esports is one of the fastest growing industries, with scholarship opportunities and career paths in fields such as computer science, digital media, and game development. By making esports more accessible, this investment helps level the playing field for students who may not have had access to these opportunities before. By embracing this industry, we can inspire the next generation of innovators and ensure that Albany County remains a hub for technological advancement. For more information and to register for the program visit albanycounty.recdesk.com/

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Pictured left to right: Albany County Deputy Commissioner of Parks & Rec Allie Robert, Claim to Fame LLC CEO Michael Crossman, MVP Health Care Vice President of Sales Everett Patterson, Ceo McCoy, County Legislator Tim Lane, Claim to Fame LLC CFO & Owner of VDO Gaming & Esports Education John Crossman, County Commissioner of arks & Rec Bakary Janneh and Menands Village Mayor Brian Marsh