“By providing super-fast broadband connections for both downloading and uploading, Verizon FiOS Internet service creates great home entertainment experiences by shattering the limits we’ve come to accept – limits such as speed and bandwidth that get in the way of fun,” said Brian Angiolet, director of marketing for Verizon FiOS. “What better way to demonstrate that than by creating unprecedented online experiences – like the FiOS Grand Tournament – that rely heavily on broadband connectivity and speed to maximize fun.”

Adds Doug Lombardi, Director of Marketing for Valve: “Verizon FiOS Internet is an ideal solution for Steam customers looking to push the limits of their online gaming experience.”

In coming weeks, Verizon will launch a series of additional initiatives that will enable consumers to experience the Internet without limitations – something only Verizon FiOS can offer. These will include Verizon FiOS experiences in video games, fashion and live events.

The FiOS Grand Tournament will bring together the best in class of the interactive entertainment sector. Valve, creator of best-selling PC game franchises Half-Life and Counter Striketm will provide tournament entrants free access to its new, highly acclaimed Half-Life 2: Deathmatch PC game for the tournament beginning May 17.

Beyond demonstrating the advantages of the speed and enormous download and upload capacity of Verizon FiOS Internet service, Half-Life 2: Deathmatch will showcase the ease of Steam, Valve’s direct platform for digital content delivery.

Verizon offers FiOS high-speed broadband service over its new, advanced fiber optic network in parts of 16 states – a network that brings the power of fiber all the way to the home. With maximum download connections of up to 30 megabits-per-second (Mbps), and upload connections of up to 5 Mbps, FiOS provides gamers with the speed they need to compete. Although users of any Internet service can play in the tournament, finalists will face off live on the Verizon FiOS Internet service, experiencing its breakthrough speed, capacity and fun.

Managed by the Cyberathlete Amateur League (CAL), the FiOS Grand Tournament officially starts May 17 when players can begin downloading Half-Life 2: Deathmatch from Valve’s Steam service located at www.steamgames.com. Players will then be able to register at www.fiosgrand.com and begin practicing until June 15.

Tournament play will begin on June 15 and the top 64 players will be ranked according to the CAL’s official ladder ranking system, until only eight players remain. Those eight players will then face-off in a dramatic head-to-head tournament that culminates with one winner fragging their way to the $100,000 prize.

More information about the tournament and its rules will be available online at www.fiosgrand.com.