The 4 main barriers in developing grassroots esports

MAIN BARRIERS IDENTIFIED IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF GRASSROOTS ESPORTS INITIATIVES – and how to face them

1. The top four barriers identified in the development of any grassroots esports initiatives are: 

Recruiting new volunteers

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Increasing the competency of the team

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Retaining players and volunteers

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Finding a sustainable economic model

2. How to level up your game and blast through those barriers?

2.1. Recruiting new volunteers through existing players, using social media and/or esports network and umbrella organisations.

Recruiting new volunteers for your grassroots esports events/initiative can be highly effective when leveraging the existing player base, social media platforms, and esports networks or umbrella organisations. Engaging current players is a strategic move because they are already passionate about the game and community. They can be encouraged to volunteer through targeted in-game messages, newsletters, and community events. By highlighting the benefits of volunteering, such as gaining experience, networking opportunities, and contributing to the success of their favourite games, current players are likely to be motivated to get involved.

Social media is another powerful tool for volunteer recruitment. Platforms like X, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok allow for wide-reaching, targeted advertising and community engagement. Creating compelling posts, sharing success stories, and utilising hashtags related to the game and volunteerism can attract potential volunteers. Hosting live Q&A sessions and interactive content can also spark interest and provide information about volunteer opportunities.

Additionally, partnering with esports networks and umbrella organisations can significantly broaden the reach. These entities often have established communication channels and a dedicated following. By collaborating with them, you can tap into a larger pool of potential volunteers. Announcements in their newsletters, forums, and at events can help spread the word and encourage participation. Combining these three strategies ensures a comprehensive and effective approach to recruiting volunteers in the esports community.

2.2 Increasing competency Managing and scaling volunteers, facilitators, and coaches in your grassroots esports initiative involves structured organisation and effective communication. To build an independent, reliable network of helpers, you must identify and train potential leaders

within your team. Delegate responsibilities and empower them to take charge and ownership of specific areas, such as event coordination or training programs.

Grassroots activities are usually flat structured, and again, you don’t have to be alone.

Here’s how you could approach it: 

‘Oldie but Goldie’ onboarding checklists

You built up your initiative, used your everyday method to plan and develop. While the project tools and communication channels have built-in scales, you do not necessarily have the same tool for your human counterparts. Of course, you can find automatized solutions for tracking your team members but you run a volunteer based, grassroots initiative.

Help to prepare your actors to prepare their role. During the team building and learning phase give them a checklist based on their roles. For example: o check your calendar daily o go through <your process> with your peers o prepare <your tools> for the next step o call <your business partner> to check their needs o take a <furniture list of events> sample and check etc.

When you’d like to scale your team members' efficiency, get a basic survey with purposeful questions. SURVEY SAMPLE ATTACHED Increasing competency in esports involves offering courses and establishing connections with other esports organisations and umbrella organisations.

Providing specialised training courses helps players, coaches, and support staff enhance their skills and stay updated with industry trends. These courses can cover a range of topics, from game strategies and mental health to event management and marketing.

Connecting with other esports organisations and umbrella groups fosters a collaborative environment where best practices and innovations can be shared.

This network facilitates knowledge exchange and professional growth, offering opportunities for joint events, workshops, and seminars. Such collaborations can also lead to mentorship programs, internships, and job placements, providing practical experience and career advancement.

2.3 Player and volunteer retention Keep them engaged with competition and competent trainers.

Player and volunteer retention in esports hinges on engagement through competition and competent trainers. Regularly scheduled competitions keep players motivated and invested in improving their skills. These events create a sense of community and purpose, fostering long-term commitment.

Having competent trainers is equally crucial. Skilled trainers provide valuable guidance, personalised feedback, and advanced strategies, helping players and volunteers reach their full potential. Their expertise not only enhances performance but also builds a supportive learning environment where participants feel valued and encouraged.

Additionally, trainers can organise workshops, training sessions, and mentorship programs to further develop skills and maintain interest. Recognizing and celebrating achievements, whether through awards or public acknowledgment, can also boost morale and retention.

Combining competitive opportunities with professional training ensures that players and volunteers remain engaged, motivated, and committed to the esports community.

This dual approach promotes continuous improvement and a strong, cohesive group dedicated to the success of their team and the broader esports ecosystem.

2.4 Economic sustainability Apply continuously for funding if needed, connect with sponsors and stakeholders, invest in upgradable equipment Economic sustainability in esports requires a multifaceted approach. Continuously applying for funding ensures a steady influx of resources to support ongoing operations and growth. This can involve seeking grants, participating in crowdfunding campaigns, and exploring various financial aid opportunities tailored for esports initiatives.

Connecting with sponsors and stakeholders is equally vital. Building strong relationships with corporate sponsors, local businesses, and key industry players can provide significant financial backing and enhance the credibility of the organisation.

These partnerships often lead to sponsorship deals, promotional opportunities, and collaborative projects that benefit both parties.

Investing in upgradable equipment is another crucial aspect. Ensuring that the technology and infrastructure used are modern and scalable allows for long-term sustainability and adaptability. Upgradable equipment helps maintain high performance standards and can attract more participants and viewers, further boosting revenue streams.

By combining continuous funding efforts, strategic partnerships, and smart investments, esports organisations can achieve and maintain economic sustainability, securing their future growth and success.

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