[CSN] Manpacks Rundown #16

I think it is important for people to hear the story on why and how Manpacks.com decided to jump into eSports. The name alone will make several of the younger people on the Team Liquid forums giggle like school children and mock the idea, so I figure I might as well give some insight into why this very sort of sponsorship is more important then you may believe. Yes, the idea and name of Manpacks is a bit interesting and quite a new concept for many esport fans. Just the idea of changing underwear and socks more then 2 times a week is a novel idea for 'gamers'.. right? See, that is what the rest of the world thinks of gamers and that is why this product is not only perfect from a practical standpoint but also from a marketing standpoint.

I was first introduced to Manpacks by Jason Tugman of iheartesports.com. Yes, the famed creator and owner of those awesome esport stickers hooked me up with Ken (Co-founder) at manpacks. Anyway, Ken loved the opportunity that is esports and wanted to put support behind it. He made it clear though, and I totally agreed, that his product would take time for the community to embrace and that he did not want to come in and try to be some "big commercialized sponsor that was gonna throw money at events, use up the demographic and move on". Manpacks and Ken wanted to start slow and actually make a difference in the community.
How, you ask? Well..that is where CSN comes in. The Cyber Sports Network would help brand Manpacks for esports. Listen.. we (CSN) already have the female market cornered (Rachel/Seltzer).. why not get the guys on board too!

Before CSN and myself would go any further with it.. I had to test the product! ** Warning, the following description may be unsuitable for gamers under 17 ** I got my hands on my own Manpack about 3 days after they shipped it. The pack includes black athletic socks, a white T-shirt and black "Saxx" boxer briefs. I think the last time I wore boxer briefs, Bill Clinton was caught with his down. No joke. I was a bit apprehensive, but hey.. they were free. I tried the socks on that day. I had an 11 hour day at class and figured there would be no better way to test them. They are, without doubt, the most comfortable and breathable (you older guys or sports guys will know what that means) socks I have ever owned. I own a lot of socks by the way!. I tried the T-shirt next and again on another one of my 11 hour class days. It is an undershirt, but unlike most, it is not 100% cotton. You know how athletic polo shirts made by Nike can stretch a bit and are very breathable. That is this shirt! Manpacks was 2 for 2 so far on having me sold on their product! The boxer briefs were last up. I held my "Saxx' up, fully inspected the size large and then put them on. Instant gratification guys! Now, I would never think to pay more then 10 bucks for a par of boxers.. but that mindset was quickly changed. These boxers lasted a full day of walking, sitting and scratching and are easily the most comfortable boxers I own. I have already put my order in for another pair of 'Saxx'.

So.. there is my story. Honest and Brutal.. and I bet you wont ever hear another organizer, team manager or pro player give you this sort of description or insight into a sponsor. Please, remember, if we want eSports to grow, we have to grow outside of those we already target and that includes the type and size of the sponsors we bring into our little community. I encourage you all, women included, to get your hands on a manpack today!