Introducing the ECL Lite & Core Post-Season Cooldown

As the ECL Lite and Core regular seasons approach their conclusion, the focus naturally turns to the playoffs. While the top teams continue their journey toward the championship, we also want to make sure that the season doesn’t simply end for those who fall just short of playoff qualification.

For that reason, we’re introducing a new post-season competition for ECL Lite and ECL Core:

The Post-Season Cooldown Tournament

The Post-Season Cooldown Tournament is designed specifically for teams that do not qualify for the playoffs, giving them the opportunity to continue playing meaningful, competitive matches while the main playoffs are being played.

Rather than the season ending abruptly, the Cooldown Tournament offers a structured and level-appropriate way to close out the season.

How it works

• The Cooldown Tournament will be held separately for Lite and Core - one for each division
• Eligible teams are those that do not qualify for the playoffs
  • Teams are allowed to opt out, with the default expectation that teams will participate.
• The tournament will run parallel to the playoff phase
• All Cooldown Tournaments will be played in a group stage format

Group stage format – more games, better matchups

The Cooldown Tournament will be played in a group stage format, ensuring that all participating teams get multiple games against opponents of a similar level.

This format was chosen intentionally to:

• Guarantee more games for every team
• Avoid one-and-done eliminations
• Create closer, more balanced matchups
• Give teams a chance to build momentum and confidence toward the end of the season

For teams that may have struggled during parts of the regular season, this structure provides the opportunity to play several competitive series against teams with comparable results — often leading to tighter games and a more enjoyable experience.

What’s next?

Further details — including group sizes, match counts, and scheduling — will be shared closer to the playoff phase once final standings are confirmed.

We’re excited to introduce the Post-Season Cooldown Tournament as a new part of the ECL Lite and Core season structure and look forward to seeing more great games played right through to the end of the season.