Affinity Esports Group, Connecticut’s premier provider of healthier gaming, has acquired CT Esports Academy and expanded its partnership with Riverbrook Regional YMCA. This marks a key expansion in Affinity Esports' presence, bringing esports programming and community engagement to Wilton.

“This acquisition allows us to unify and elevate the esports experience for Wilton families and demonstrate what we can do alongside a partner like the Riverbrook Regional YMCA,” said Mark Kilpatrick, Founder and CEO of Affinity Esports Group. “We’re honored to build on CT Esports Academy’s foundation and offer new opportunities for learning, growth, and healthier gaming.”

This fall, Affinity Esports’ offerings will include after-school programs, game nights, social gaming clubs, educational classes, club teams, and birthday parties. For families seeking weekly care options, the After-School Study & Play Club runs weekdays from 3–5 PM, with school-to-YMCA transportation available. For a more personalized experience, private coaching is also offered in gaming, content creation, and coding.

Fall programming begins August 25 and runs through December 31. Registration is now open at wiltonymca.org/gaming-esports.

“Affinity Esports has shown a deep commitment to our values and our members,” said Christene Freedman, CEO of Riverbrook Regional YMCA. “At the YMCA, we believe in meeting young people where they are—and today, that includes the digital arena. Esports is more than gaming; it’s a gateway to teamwork, leadership, and opportunity. By partnering with Affinity Sports, we’re expanding our mission to foster community, inclusion, and personal growth in a space where youth already thrive.”

“Passing the torch to Affinity Esports is something I feel truly confident about,” added Richard Casner, former CEO and Owner of CT Esports Academy. “Their vision and experience make them the right leaders to take this program to the next level.”

Affinity Esports is exploring new relationships with schools, recreation departments, and nonprofits in Wilton and beyond to grow engagement.

About Affinity Esports Group

Affinity Esports Group is Connecticut’s leading organization for healthier gaming. With studios in Newtown, Milford, and Wilton, plus a statewide network of mobile partners, Affinity delivers structured, inclusive programs in welcoming spaces where players of all ages can build skills, learn, and connect.

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“Esports is more than gaming; it’s a gateway to teamwork, leadership, and opportunity.” – Christene Freedman, CEO, Riverbrook Regional YMCA