I ran across an interesting post on the evolution of agent recruiting in pro football. And, after spending the early part of this week digesting the MYM fiasco involving Kori, it got the gears turning about player representation in the eSports hemisphere. My thoughts on a similar topic can be found here but they left out a key point: the economic perspective. If only because an analysis isn’t complete without exploring that angle.

Most people can agree that, we (human beings) respond to incentives. So the subject of equitable player treatment in eSports demands a fair look at where the incentives lie. In other words, who stands to gain what by ensuring players like Kori aren’t subjected to the documented mistreatment by orgs like MYM. Obviously the player(s) in question have quite a bit to gain, but who else is incentivized? Specifically, what is the economic viability of a structure/person/group providing the education, support and advocacy posited by gamers like Snoopeh? It’s a simplistically complex question that begs to be addressed.

Bryce Blum’s reddit details some of the legalities involved with the situation. Still, legal consequences aren’t incentives. In other sporting arenas, it makes very good business sense to provide the type of support that would prevent players from being exploited. Agents, talent management organizations, and even unions all thrive when players are put in positions to succeed (on and off the playing field). Which is why I agree that a players union isn’t the answer right now. However, until this gap is bridged in eSports, it’s hard to imagine this nightmare NOT repeating itself.

Hopefully, we’ll see innovative approaches to making this a reality very soon. Maybe crowd funding is an option. Or perhaps an independently run players group of some sort. Especially since the paradox is that, without better player representation, eSports as a whole will suffer.

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Alex Fletcher is founder & president at eSports Group, where he helps customers meet their eSports advisory & consulting needs. When Alex isn’t glued to a screen, he spends time with his wife, their two dogs, and pretends to learn Polish. Feel free to stalk him on Twitter – @FletchUnleashed