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Sept. 19, 2022 - When the �鶹��ý Varsity Esports team starts its third season this fall, players will be donning new jerseys with a Covington-based IT company logo on them.

Blair Technology Group, an internet retailing company that specializes in buying and selling quality pre-owned and refurbished computers and other computer-related products, embarked on a unique partnership with the NKU Esports program over the summer. Wanting to do more than merely sponsor the team, Blair Tech and their new gaming division, Periphio, wanted to be at the forefront of fostering the continued growth of NKU Esports.

“Our relationship with Blair Technology and Periphio gaming is more than a sponsorship. It is really a partnership,” Dr. Jim Buss, founder and general manager of NKU Esports, said. “Our production teams are working closely together to tell our stories to a broader audience.”

“We truly couldn't be happier partnering with NKU and the Esports team,” says Brian Lightner, Periphio master chief, "By offering a wide range of quality gaming PCs, Periphio enables more people to get into PC Gaming, helping to grow the PC gaming community through exposure and access. Periphios' partnership with NKU creates a perfect marriage by bridging a large, established community with a specialized community-builder like Blair Technologies and Periphio.”

Blair Technology Group was established in 2005 by lifelong northern Kentucky resident Andy Blair. The once start-up located in Blair’s home, is one of Microsoft’s No. 1 refurbishers in the world. Periphio gaming launched in 2019 to pave a new pathway toward gaming that includes re-using viable components, custom building systems to meet gamer needs, and supporting the local and regional Esports landscape.

As part of their commitment to NKU Esports, Blair Technologies and Periphio have donated custom-built gaming PCs for both the varsity and club Esports programs, money for scholarships to attract high-caliber players and assistance for those with financial need, as well as support in creating content for social media and live streams.

The partnership with NKU also inspired Blair to construct a studio at their facilities that NKU students can use for producing content with the Periphio team.

Varsity Rocket League player, Liam Greene, already sees the benefit. “I am beyond excited to work with a reliable brand like Periphio. Having top-of-the-line gear helps us focus on winning and improving our team. I can’t wait to see where we can take this partnership in the future.”

To learn more about the NKU Esports program, visit its website.