How to Start an Esports Team at Your School: A Guide for Administrators

Esports, or competitive video gaming, has rapidly gained popularity in schools worldwide. What was once seen as a niche hobby has now become a significant part of school culture, offering numerous benefits for students. As a school administrator, you have a unique opportunity to harness the power of esports to engage students, build community, and promote skills that extend beyond the gaming world. This guide will walk you through the benefits of starting an esports team at your school and provide a step-by-step guide to get started.

The Benefits of Esports in Schools

1. Academic Improvement: Esports can boost students' academic performance by developing skills such as critical thinking, strategic planning, and teamwork. Students who participate in esports often see improvements in their focus and time management, translating into better grades.

2. Inclusivity and Social Engagement: Esports teams offer a space for students who might not be involved in traditional sports or other extracurricular activities. This inclusivity fosters a sense of belonging and community, reducing feelings of isolation.

3. College and Career Opportunities: With the rise of collegiate esports programs and scholarships, participating in an esports team can open doors for students seeking higher education. Additionally, the skills developed through esports, such as leadership, communication, and technology proficiency, are highly valued in many career fields.

4. Physical and Mental Wellness: Contrary to the stereotype of the sedentary gamer, structured esports programs emphasize the importance of physical health, including regular exercise and proper nutrition. They also promote mental wellness through stress management and teamwork.

5. Technological Literacy: Esports inherently involve technology, providing students with hands-on experience in managing gaming hardware, software, and networks. This technical literacy is increasingly important in today’s digital world.

Step-by-Step Guide to Starting an Esports Team

Step 1: Gain Support from School Administration

Before launching an esports program, you'll need the support of key stakeholders, including the principal, school board, and possibly the parent-teacher association. Prepare a proposal outlining the benefits of esports, potential costs, and how the program aligns with the school's educational goals.

Step 2: Establish a Budget

Determine the budget required to start and maintain the esports team. This includes the cost of gaming equipment (computers, consoles, peripherals), software licenses, internet upgrades, uniforms, and potential tournament fees. Look for sponsorship opportunities, grants, or partnerships with local businesses to help offset costs.

Step 3: Choose the Right Games

Selecting the right games is crucial. Choose games that are age-appropriate, have an established competitive scene, and align with your school's values. Popular choices include games like League of Legends, Rocket League, and Overwatch. Ensure the games you choose have a balance of entertainment and educational value, focusing on strategy, teamwork, and communication. Selecting the right game(s) is a critical factor in the success of an early program. Just because League of Legends is a popular game at the professional or collegiate level doesn't mean it would be something your students would want to play. Go out into your school community and through questionnaires or polling, try to establish what games your students are interested in before making any key decisions.

Step 4: Recruit a Coach and Team Members

At EsportScholar, we provide experienced expert level coaching and instruction. It can often be hard to find a teacher at your school with a depth of understanding and experience in various game titles. Having the right coach is essential to getting these programs off the ground. This person should not only understand the games but also be able to guide students in developing both their gaming and life skills. Then, promote the esports team to students through school announcements, flyers, and social media. Host an information session to explain what esports entails and how students can get involved.

Step 5: Set Up the Gaming Environment

Create a dedicated space for the esports team to practice and compete. This area should have high-speed internet access, proper ventilation, comfortable seating, and the necessary gaming equipment. For a cheaper, temporary first step this set up could be consoles and TVs, however most established esports teams compete using customized PCs. Consider safety measures, such as screen time limits and ergonomics, to ensure a healthy environment for students.

Step 6: Organize Practice Sessions and Compete

Schedule regular practice sessions, treating them like any other extracurricular activity. Develop a practice plan that includes skill development, teamwork exercises, and strategy discussions. Once the team is ready, start competing in local, regional, or national tournaments. Many organizations, such as the High School Esports League (HSEL), offer structured competitions that your team can join.

Step 7: Promote the Esports Program

Publicize your esports team's achievements through the school's website, newsletters, and social media. Host events where the team can showcase their skills to the school community, such as live-streamed matches or friendly competitions with other schools.

Step 8: Evaluate and Grow the Program

After the first season, gather feedback from students, coaches, and parents to assess the program's success. Look for areas to improve, such as increasing participation, expanding the game selection, or enhancing the practice environment. Continuously seek opportunities to grow the program, including exploring collegiate partnerships or offering esports-related courses.

Starting an esports team at your school is more than just setting up video games—it's about creating a vibrant, inclusive community that fosters personal and academic growth. By following this guide, you'll be well on your way to establishing a successful esports program that benefits students and enhances your school's culture.

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