plays Overwatch, a popular arena-style FPS with a wide variety of characters and
options for team composition. Choose the game that works best of the size and
interests of your team, keeping in mind the technical requirements to play it. For
a selection of popular esports games, see page 24.
Players: Different games will require differently sized teams of players. Ideally, a
an esports team should be large enough to form two full in-game teams so
players can practice against each other.!While there are many popular individual
esports, this guide focuses on team-based games and play.
Auditions: The popularity of video games may mean you have more interest
than your library’s team can support. In that case, you may need to hold
auditions to select the regular members of your team. Establish criteria
beforehand, like gameplay skill, sportsmanship, etc., and schedule a time for
interested teens to try out. Consider inviting representatives from any partner
organizations to help you make decisions.
Schedule: Like traditional sports, esports require consistent practice in order to
improve skills and group coordination. This can be a loud and sometimes
emotional process. In order to avoid disturbing other patrons, practices should
be held during periods where the library is otherwise closed or low-traffic.
Consider scheduling weekly meetings for team members to practice together
under the supervision of a library staff member or coach. Pottsboro added four
additional library hours on Saturday exclusively for esports team practice. The
extra time is divided into three 60-minute blocks (with breaks) so all team
members get a chance to play. Alternatively, scheduling practice in a separate
activity room may allow greater flexibility.
Tournaments and Events: After practicing on their own, teams will want to
elevate their game by competing with others. For starters, consider scheduling
scrimmages with other area teams. In addition, national organizations for
scholastic esports teams regularly sponsor tournaments for popular games. The
North America Scholastic Esports Federation (see page 9) runs free-to-play
tournaments multiple times a year. If your program is affiliated with a local high
school, you might consider the High School Esports League, with the caveat that
membership is priced based on the number of participants.