ClubWPT Gold Acquires Upswing Poker to Create Integrated Training Platform

A New Model for Online Poker

ClubWPT Gold is moving its focus beyond simply offering poker games to creating an ecosystem where players can actively improve their skills.

The company stated that the goal is to create a platform that “empowers players not just to play, but to improve and grow their game.”

This integration of education and gameplay is designed to create a stickier, more valuable experience for users, combining the “how-to” of poker strategy with the “where-to” of online play.

Upswing Founder to Remain Involved

Upswing Poker founder Doug Polk, a well-known figure in the poker community, will remain involved with the brand following the acquisition. In a statement, Polk framed the deal as a positive evolution for the company he started nearly a decade ago.

“After an almost decade-long run on our own, it’s time to make this a tag team event,” Polk said. “These are two great companies that make the poker world a better place.”

Crucially for existing Upswing Poker members, Polk confirmed that the current team will not be departing. “The Upswing team is not going anywhere,” he stated. “We will be staying on board to help facilitate a successful transition and to shape the future of both companies.”

Incentivizing Learning with Sweeps Coins

A key component of the integration is a new incentive program that directly links Upswing’s training products with ClubWPT Gold’s sweepstakes-based gameplay. Customers who purchase Upswing’s educational courses will now receive Sweeps Coins (SC), which can be redeemed for real cash prizes on the ClubWPT Gold platform.

For example, purchasing most of Upswing’s signature standalone courses will now come with a 50 SC bonus. Subscribers to the monthly Upswing Lab training program will receive a 10 SC bonus with each renewal, creating a continuous incentive for ongoing learning.

Polk reflected on the journey of building his company from the ground up. “I will never forget the day that I wrote a $5,000 check to start Upswing. What an incredible journey building this company has been,” he said. “I am also proud of the value we have provided to our members and how we have pushed forward the poker training industry.”