Earlier this year, I shared a blog post discussing the challenges of coaching youth esports teams and the steps we were taking to address them. Reflecting on the past season, I can confidently say that our efforts paid off. The commitment and dedication from both players and parents significantly improved, making it one of our most successful seasons yet.
A Season of Growth and Commitment
In the spring season earlier this year, we faced a significant challenge with player retention—half of the players pulled out before the season ended. This fall, however, we saw a dramatic improvement, with only one player out of eleven leaving mid-season. This shift was a direct result of changes we implemented to create a structure similar to traditional sports teams.
By placing multiple players on a team and requiring them to compete for playing time, we fostered a competitive yet collaborative environment. Players also faced penalties for being late to practice or failing to wear their training shirts. These measures encouraged accountability and a more serious approach to their commitment.
The results spoke for themselves. Players began practicing together during their free time, even when they weren’t on the same team, to improve their skills. This season, our teams achieved notable success: finishing 1st and 4th in the regular season and 2nd and 5th in the postseason.
Building on Success: Plans for Next Season
While we’re proud of what we accomplished, there’s always room for improvement. For the upcoming season, we’re introducing new features to further enhance the experience for our players and teams.
1. Additional Competition Tiers
We’ll offer additional tiers that include more competitions. This option is for players who are eager to improve further and want more opportunities to test their skills. By providing these tiers, we can cater to a wider range of player goals, from those seeking a competitive edge to those playing for fun and growth.
2. Team Workouts Every Other Week
Physical fitness is an often-overlooked aspect of esports, but studies show that regular exercise, a balanced diet, and quality sleep significantly improve gaming performance. While we can’t control our players’ diets or sleep schedules, we can introduce structured physical activity. Starting next season, teams will participate in biweekly workouts to promote health and optimize performance. This holistic approach aims to build stronger, more focused players who are prepared for the demands of competitive gaming.
Looking Ahead
This past season was a significant step forward for our youth esports program, and I’m excited about the enhancements we’re making for the future. By continuing to focus on discipline, teamwork, and a holistic approach to player development, we’re not only building better gamers but also equipping youth with the skills and habits they’ll carry into other areas of life.
As we prepare for the next season, I look forward to seeing how these additions will elevate our teams and help our players reach new heights. Here’s to another successful season of learning, growth, and esports excellence!
