Esports organization OverActive Media announced April 13 that the NHL’s Montreal Canadiens have joined its ownership group. OverActive Media is the organization behind teams such as the Toronto Ultra, Toronto Defiant and MAD Lions.
Alongside this announcement, OverActive Media reported the second closing on its private placement. The aggregate gross proceeds reached over $40 million.
Montreal Canadiens, OverActive Media and esports
The Montreal Canadiens’ investment in OverActive Media signifies a move into esports. According to the press release, they are looking to play a leadership role in the esports space.
Geoff Molson, the CEO, co-owner and president of the NHL team, said he is thrilled to join the partnership group. He added how he has followed the organization’s progress over the years.
Please help us welcome the newest members of our ownership group! #esports #sportsbiz https://t.co/w1Towndfgz
— OverActive (@overactivegg) April 13, 2021
“They are an impressive operation and clearly a leading organization in the global esports industry,” Molson said. “We could not be more excited for our future together.”
Chris Overholt, the president and CEO of OverActive Media, highlighted how partnering with the franchise would help inform his organization’s strategy.
“We are beginning to manifest our vision for building a world leading sports and entertainment organization for a new generation of fans,” Overholt said. “We have much to learn from Geoff Molson and his team, and we look forward to a long and successful partnership with the Canadiens and their leadership group.”
Arizona Coyotes, Washington Capitals and Toronto Maple Leafs
OverActive Media also announced that two professional hockey players have joined the organization as athlete owners. The two players are Phil Kessel from the Arizona Coyotes and Carl Hagelin of the Washington Capitals.
Any @CODLeague teams want to play some 3-on-3 hockey? Don't worry, we'll go easy on you 😏
Joining @Marner93 as members of the @OverActiveMedia ownership team, please welcome @PKessel81 and @CarlHagelin!#SooUltra pic.twitter.com/3wbWMQTUCg
— Toronto Ultra (@TorontoUltra) April 13, 2021
Both Kessel and Hagelin joined alongside Mitch Marner, who plays for the Toronto Maple Leafs. Marner joined OverActive Media’s ownership team back in 2020. The Toronto Maple Leafs player said he livestreamed with Toronto Ultra players in the past as well.
“As a gamer, my investment is an opportunity to join one of the best global esports organizations and to help bridge the gap between hockey fans and esports,” Marner said in the announcement.
He added how he was eager to introduce the Toronto Ultra and Toronto Defiant to the younger generation of traditional sport fans.
