Thursday, October 1, 2026
On Saturday, June 27, gamers and families from across the local community gathered to celebrate the grand reopening of Valhallan Esports Training Wantagh, which recently came under the ownership of local mothers Jackie Mangiolino and Allison Vaz.
During the six-hour event, attendees connected with one another by competing in esports tournaments, explored new gaming stations, and met local vendors. A refurbished gaming PC valued at $2,500 was among the day’s top prizes.
For Mangiolino and Vaz, the event marked more than a celebration. It also served as a reflection of their journey from customers to owners of Valhallan.
Both women were first introduced to the business through their sons, who participated in the arena's esports training programs. After seeing what they described as the program's positive impact on their children and the community, they decided to purchase the business when ownership changed hands. They officially became owners on January 30.
“What started as something our sons loved quickly became something our entire families believed in,” explained Mangiolino. “We saw the confidence, friendships, teamwork, and personal growth that happened here, and we wanted to make sure those opportunities remained available for local families for years to come.”
The grand reopening served as an example of the Valhallan’s mission to provide young people with the structure and coaching needed to develop teamwork, communication, leadership, critical thinking, and other lifelong skills through competitive gaming.
Throughout the day, participants competed in tournaments and met with other members of the local gaming community while parents learned about Valhallan’s approach to esports. Unlike recreational gaming, the program combines coaching with organized competition to help students build gaming and life skills.
The event also introduced new families to the arena while longtime members reconnected with the community.
“The response from the community was incredible,” said Vaz. “We met so many families who were curious about esports and others who have been part of the Valhallan family for years. It reinforced why we took this leap and how much opportunity exists to continue growing this community.”
Valhallan serves thousands of players as the largest youth esports franchise in North America. The Wantagh location offers youth programs for gamers ages 6 to 17, focusing on creating an inclusive environment where players can learn, compete, and connect with one another regardless of individual skill level.
Under the new ownership, the arena plans to expand its programs, strengthen community partnerships and continue introducing families to the educational and developmental benefits of organized esports.
