Aiming “to fuse the thrill of indoor soccer with the dynamic world of gaming and esports,” the Dallas Sidekicks announced Monday that Hector Rodriguez, founder and CEO of Frisco-based OpTic Gaming, has joined the team’s ownership group.

Known online and in the video gaming world as “H3CZ,” Rodriguez could be a secret weapon for the team’s mission of broadening its appeal and building a “passionate, engaged” fan base.

“Hector Rodriguez joining us is a game-changer,” Sidekicks President Jesse Llamas said in a statement. “Indoor soccer holds immense potential for innovation, and our aim is to unite the physical and digital realms, creating an immersive journey that resonates with fans of all ages.”

That vision is shared by Rodriguez, for whom soccer has always been a passion.

“This is all about connecting the rich traditions of soccer with the ever-evolving worlds of gaming and content,” Rodriguez said in a statement. “Together, with the Sidekicks’ legendary Texas brand, we have the opportunity to bring lifelong and new fans an exhilarating experience.”

Terms of the deal were not disclosed.

Follows addition of former Mavs star to the ownership lineup

The move represents the latest high-profile addition to the Sidekicks’ ownership group. In July, former Dallas Mavericks star Eddie Najera joined the group as a part owner.

Rodriguez founded OpTic Gaming in 2006. In 2021, OpTic merged with Dallas-based Envy Gaming to form a combined North Texas esports powerhouse under the OpTic name. Today, OpTic is one of the most successful gaming companies worldwide, with its YouTube channel boasting 1.5 million subscribers.

As for the Sidekicks, the team is currently gearing up for its home opener December 9 at the Credit Union of Texas Event Center in Allen.

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