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Joshua Garr
Founding Team, CEO at LEVELUP Arena - Esports Pro Player - $13.2k 2021 winnings - I build functional and profitable esports facilities and programs
Professional Background
Joshua Garr's journey in the world of esports began in 2005 when he stepped onto the competitive scene, well before the global recognition of esports as a legitimate entertainment sector. In 2007, he played a pivotal role in elevating esports by integrating it into recruitment events for the Kansas National Guard, showcasing his ability to connect gaming with larger community and organizational goals.
With a robust career incrementally expanding over more than 15 years as a professional esports player, Joshua has amassed extensive experience within the startup esports environment. He possesses an innate understanding of brand management, educational programming, and the nuts and bolts of league and event operations. His dedication to fostering grassroots community engagement around esports events, particularly youth esports league operations, has paved the way for the growth of competitive gaming at the local level.
Currently, Joshua serves as the CEO and owner of LVLUP Arena, a prominent esports venue with two expansive facilities under construction in Kansas City and New York, each exceeding 20,000 square feet. Under his visionary leadership, a team of 30 employees is poised to set new standards in the esports industry, providing gamers with unparalleled experiences in a state-of-the-art environment.
Apart from his role as CEO, Joshua is also a Managing Partner at Get Good Khed, one of the most exclusive esports firms noted for its authentic and in-depth knowledge of the industry. His contributions underscore a commitment to the authenticity and strategy necessary for both fledgling and established organizations seeking to navigate the ever-evolving esports landscape. Joshua has developed an invaluable playbook that emphasizes growth and excellence, helping various organizations harness their full potential and emerge successfully into the esports market.
In his own words, Joshua believes in the importance of getting the fundamentals right: "Always remember if you can’t get the small things right, there is no way you can get the big ones!" His perspectives resonate deeply within the community, especially as he insists on correct spelling—esports or E-Sports—as a metaphor for the attention to detail required in this competitive industry.
Education and Achievements
Joshua Garr pursued his Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) degree in Business, Management, Marketing, and Related Support Services at Fort Hays State University. His educational foundation complemented his practical experience in the gaming industry, enabling him to merge business acumen with his passion for esports.
Joshua has held several notable positions throughout his career, including:
- Founder of LEVELUP Esports Arena, which focuses on creating immersive gaming environments.
- Formerly the founder of LVLUP Esports, where he developed programming and initiatives that laid the groundwork for future esports events.
- Former Managing Partner at Get Good Khed, where he shaped the strategic direction of the firm.
- Formerly a Sensei at Gamer Sensei, where he provided coaching and guidance to up-and-coming gamers, demonstrating his commitment to mentorship within the esports ecosystem.
- Directed Employment Services at COF TRAINING SERVICES INC, blending his managerial skills with community service to support workforce development.
- Competed at a high level in Major League Gaming's Halo competitions, which provided him with firsthand experience in the competitive gaming industry from the player's perspective.
Achievements
Some of Joshua's outstanding achievements include the orchestration of over 150 successful midnight game release events at various big-box retail stores, underscoring his capability in event management and marketing within the gaming sector. His forward-thinking approach and relentless pursuit of excellence have established him as a trusted name in esports consulting, with a focus on authenticity and real-world experience.
In summary, Joshua Garr is a seasoned esports professional whose insights and leadership are transforming the landscape of competitive gaming. With a foundation steeped in competitive experience and a vision tailored for future growth, he continues to inspire both emerging talents and established organizations in the vibrant world of esports.
