Lolesports call for freelance writers!

Riot·May 31, 2018·1 votes·5,813 views

Lolesports is once again looking for stories and articles from freelance writers. In particular, we’re looking for feature writers who grew up reading the likes of Grantland (RIP). We want unique stories about players, teams, and the League of Legends esports scene as a whole -- stuff that flexes your storytelling muscles and dives more into personalities and less into why you might think X is better than Y.

Some examples include pieces we’ve published before like The Hai Road, Play Beautifully, Intentionally Feeding, and Brother Sven. We’re also interested in more voice-driven pieces by writers who take on humorous tones (like this Ringer piece) or approach storytelling from unique angles (like this ESPN piece). Pieces should be written with an English-speaking audience in mind.

To apply, send an email to [email protected] that includes your pitch(es), two writing samples, and a one-paragraph bio on who you are and what drives you to League of Legends esports.

FAQ

Do I need any experience?

No, but you need to be at least 18 years old. We’re just looking for good writers and we understand your background doesn’t necessarily reflect your ability.

Do I need to be based in Los Angeles?

Nope! We think it might be helpful, but it’s not a deal breaker.

Can I write about any league? Or do I need to focus on the NA LCS?

We’re looking for pieces that would cater to an English-speaking audience (particularly in NA). This will generally center around the NA LCS, but there are examples where that may not be the case.

What does the typical process look like?

If we accept your pitch, you will then send us a draft and then you may need to work with us on multiple revisions. Timelines will vary depending on the nature of the project but that will be communicated at the outset.

I have a very specific question -- what’s the best way to reach you?

You can send us an email at [email protected].

Kien Lam is a writer for Lolesports. You can find more ~~awful~~ great jokes and commentary on his Twitter.

11 Comments

IcyPepperMay 31, 20181 votes

How much does it pay?

RiotMean Mister KienMay 31, 20183 votes

Rates will vary depending on experience.

IcyPepperMay 31, 20181 votes

A bit unusual for freelance, but thanks for the answer~!

Maybe I'll apply? Who knows?

[sg-lulu]

KiggleslogicMay 31, 20181 votes

I've applied and I can't wait to get more information about this. It sounds incredibly interesting [slayer-pantheon-thumbs]

Glaurung88Jun 4, 20181 votes

Me too! I'm excited to maybe write, but I'm more excited to read what comes out of this.

GwynderMay 31, 20181 votes

Sounds interesting. Although I am based in AUS... They do have the OCE here though and the LCK is only an hour behind ;)

III BAKURYU III Jun 1, 20181 votes

What exactly is there to write about that hasn't already been done before?

Memes?
Some weird stupid games that players play when they're knocked out of tournaments like twister, VR experiences? Rubbing on Korea's nipples from pwning every other region tournament after tournament? China and EU just "there" always coming in 2nd-3rd/4th every tournament? NA getting bent over time after time?

We've already seen 7-8 years worth of "Esports" articles and it's gotten real boring and repetitive.

Crzymstrbkwrm876Jun 1, 20181 votes

Isn't that the point of trying to find an author with a good use of voice and/ or storytelling? To make it a bit more interesting? Personally, the articles that have come out this year I've felt are much better than the ones released in the past. Especially the ones where the author ranks NA teams, that guy is hilarious.

III BAKURYU III Jun 1, 20181 votes

True. The articles and storytelling the last few months have been a bit better oppose to previous years but it will soon fade.

Either the writer won't care to put in the effort when the desire to do so is same ol' - same ol' results. It's like being a broadcaster for GSW/CLE are you really that excited, have much else to say, surprised.

Let's say you become a Riot writer( in which I wish you the best) and you have to literally write the same thing over and over, you wouldn't get bored? Even if you're a great writer the grind will get to you cause there's only so many memes that are "there"

TL - 4th LOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLIOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLLOLOILLLLLOLOLOLOL Hilarious!
SKT - Wins - TSM - Group stage failures............... C9 - GIVE THEM YOUR ENERGY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Like we've already seen those memes/facts and yet, 7-8 years in and it seems that's really the only storylines that seem to get read, article after article.

Are you going to be any different if you do get the job are anyone else? Yeah, the articles have been "funny" but not so much informational with stats, previous stats, history etc - we've already seen "funny/meme filled articles" going on 8 years now!