National Model for Creating Secure Digital Environments for Kids Makes Its Debut in St. Louis
Contender Esports Becomes First Gaming Center Network to Integrate Kidas’ AI-Powered ProtectMe PC Technology into ggCircuit Software.
Photos provided by Contender Esports
Parents can now feel safer each time their child or teen picks up a mouse, types on a keyboard, or commands a game controller or joystick. Once they enter the world of online video gaming, they are exposed to possible threats. Two companies have joined forces to guard against such threats and create a safer digital playground for them.
Youth engaging in esports in the St. Louis region and beyond can now have the unparalleled protection of Kidas' AI-powered ProtectMe technology. This watershed moment is first launching protection through its first-ever integration with ggCircuit at Contender Esports' St. Louis location. It will roll out in other locations in the country soon.
Contender Esports Gaming Center
This strategic partnership introduces sophisticated text and voice communication monitoring designed to combat the pervasive online threats facing young gamers.
Kidas Head of Parenting Jenna Berger said, "As a mom of four, I know firsthand how concerned parents are about what their kids might be exposed to in online games. This partnership gives parents peace of mind by ensuring their children are participating in safe, supportive gaming environments that prioritize wellbeing alongside competition."
Youngsters get ultimate protection at Contender Esports while playing video games in a potential minefield of outside threats.
Through state-of-the-art artificial intelligence, the technological breakthrough behind ProtectMe’s real-time threat detection can silently analyze in-game communications to identify potential harassment.
“At Contender, we are committed to offering a safe and fun place for gamers of all ages and we appreciate Kidas and the tools they provide us to keep Kidas customers safe and their parents informed,” said Contender Esports CEO Brett Payne.
Staff and parents nearby as kids enjoy unparalleled protection of Kidas' AI-powered ProtectMe technology at Contender Esports.
Esports Director of Operations Mike Chapman oversees the implementation of these safety measures. Through this partnership, St. Louis gaming centers are becoming national models for creating secure digital environments.
By transforming online gaming from a potential minefield of toxicity into a protected space of skill development, this innovation represents more than technological advancement—it's a commitment to nurturing the next generation of digital citizens.
86 percent of young gamers aged 13 to 17 experience harassment in online games. Safety guides available for download here courtesy of Waterford USD.
Given that 86 percent of young gamers aged 13 to 17 in the U.S. experience harassment in online games, the future of educational esports depends on creating an ecosystem where parents and administrators feel confident about the safety of youth participants.
Kidas' ProtectMe PC software enhances the security of esports and allows them help schools and gaming venues build enjoyable, long-term programs that everyone can trust for their kids.
ProtectMe's best-in-class voice and text monitoring technology enables esports venues to detect and address harmful behavior, such as cyberbullying and harassment, early and effectively. When implemented in esports venues, ProtectMe provides immediate, real-time alerts for any concerning behavior, allowing staff to take swift action.
The next generation of digital citizens are nurtured at Contender Esports.
Recognizing the urgent need for enhanced safety measures in youth gaming environments, Contender Esports is the first gaming center network to onboard ProtectMe through ggCircuit. The deployment will begin at its St. Louis, Mo., location, with additional expansion planned in Springfield, MO, Tulsa, OK, and Hudson Valley, NY.
About Kidas
Kidas is a technology company developing AI-powered text and voice communication tools to protect online users from toxicity, cyberbullying and other predatory behavior. Its proprietary ProtectMe software for children’s PC games analyzes in-game voice communication, text activity and screen time, silently integrating into hundreds of popular games and monitoring for predatory actions and privacy concerns. Custom weekly, monthly and, if needed, daily / immediate reports are generated and emailed to parents, letting them know if their child encountered threats.
Additionally, Kidas’ ProtectMe Bot is the first and only bot available for Discord with voice and chat moderation capabilities designed to combat toxicity among users, ensuring a positive experience for everyone using the platform and maintaining server security. For more information, visit www.getkidas.com.
About ggCircuit, LLC.
ggCircuit, LLC., an Esports Entertainment Group, Inc. company, is dedicated to delivering comprehensive software and service solutions for gaming centers, esports arenas, and collegiate programs. With features like matchmaking, user engagement, and marketplace integrations, ggCircuit enables venues to run successful events, leagues, and competitions for players worldwide.
About Contender Esports
Contender Esports is a franchise network of gaming centers designed to serve and elevate local esports communities. Offering state-of-the-art PC and console gaming stations, Contender Esports provides a hub for open play, structured leagues, tournaments and competitive seasons. With a mission to empower youth through gaming, Contender Esports fosters leadership, teamwork and critical thinking skills, while partnering with schools, nonprofits and businesses to create inclusive and development-focused gaming environments.