How to Start Your Own Esports Team

Esports is booming. What was once a niche hobby has now transformed into a massive industry, attracting millions of viewers and providing career opportunities for players, coaches, managers, and entrepreneurs alike.

If you’re a fan of gaming and have a passion for competition, you might have considered starting your own esports team. But where do you begin? How do you build a team, get sponsorship, and grow a brand? 

This guide will walk you through the fundamental steps of starting and growing your very own esports team, from recruitment to business strategy. Whether you’re aiming to compete locally or dream of becoming a professional esports team and going global.

What Is an Esports Team?

An esports team is a group of players who compete in organised video game tournaments or leagues. Teams typically specialise in specific video games, such as League of Legends, Counter-Strike: Global Offensive, Fortnite, or FIFA.

Each team is made up of various roles, including:

• Players: These are the individuals who compete in tournaments. They are the core of the team, and their skill at the game is essential to the team’s success.
• Coaches: A coach helps the players improve by giving advice on strategy, gameplay, and team coordination. They often review game footage, help with training, and guide players through high-pressure situations.
• Managers: A manager handles the team’s day-to-day operations, from organising practice schedules to arranging travel and ensuring the team’s general well-being.
• Analysts: Analysts help teams by studying opponents, reviewing past games, and coming up with strategies to improve the team’s performance.

Teams compete in various tournaments, from local esports tournaments to global championships. Some of the biggest names in esports, such as Team Liquid, Fnatic, and G2 Esports, have millions of fans and sponsors, proving that esports is no longer just a hobby—it’s a serious business.

How Many Esports Teams Are There in the UK?

The esports scene in the UK is rapidly growing. There are hundreds of esports teams competing at different levels, from amateur to professional. The UK is home to several well-known organisations, including Fnatic, which started in London and is one of the biggest esports teams globally. We even have one of our own professional esports teams here at BCE, The Blackhorse Knights, which our students can join.

In terms of numbers, it’s estimated that there are over 100 active esports teams in the UK. These teams compete in a wide range of games, with some specialising in certain titles like Rocket League or Valorant.

The esports industry in the UK is set to continue growing, with more schools and universities offering esports programmes and competitions. This presents a great opportunity for young people in the UK to get involved, whether as an esports player, manager, or fan.

How to Get Into Esports: A Beginner’s Guide

Getting into esports can be an exciting yet challenging journey, but it’s definitely achievable if you know where to start. Here’s a quick beginner’s guide to help you break into the world of esports:

1. Understand the Industry: Esports isn’t just about playing video games; it’s a full ecosystem that includes team management, event organisation, marketing, and broadcasting. It’s important to learn how the industry works beyond just playing.
2. Find Your Niche: Do you want to be a player, a coach, or perhaps a team manager? There are plenty of opportunities in esports, and it’s essential to figure out where your interests and skills lie.
3. Start Networking: Esports is a community-driven industry. The more people you know, the better your chances of getting into it. Attend local tournaments, join online forums, and follow esports influencers on social media to stay updated with news and events.
4. Train and Practice: If you’re aiming to become a player, the most important thing is practice. Compete in online tournaments, improve your skills, and build a reputation in your chosen game.
5. Look for Education: If you’re serious about a career in esports, you may want to consider formal education. For example, BCE’s Esports course offers essential knowledge in areas like team management, marketing, and event production—perfect for anyone who wants to get into the business side of esports.

 

How to Start Your Own Esports Team: Step-by-Step Guide

Starting your own esports team can be exciting, but it requires careful planning. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you set up your team:

1. Recruiting Players: Building a team begins with finding the right players. It’s essential to pick people who not only have strong gaming skills but also work well together. Communication and teamwork are just as important as individual talent. Try hosting tryouts or scouting online tournaments to find promising players.
2. Securing Sponsorships: Esports teams often need funding to cover expenses such as equipment, tournament entry fees, and travel. This is where sponsorships come in. You’ll need to approach brands or companies that align with your team’s image and ask them to sponsor your team. Sponsorships can provide financial support or in-kind services (such as free gaming gear).
3. Entering Competitions: Once you’ve got a team, it’s time to start competing! Register your team for local and online tournaments, and if possible, look to enter larger competitions. Participating in different levels of competition will help your team gain experience and recognition.
4. Building a Brand: A strong brand is crucial for growing your team’s presence. Use social media platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube to share your team’s journey, post updates, and engage with fans. The more visible your team is, the more likely you are to attract attention from fans and sponsors.

 

How Do Esports Teams Make Money?

Esports is a business, and like any other business, teams need to find ways to make money. Here are the primary ways esports teams generate revenue:

1. Sponsorship Deals: Many teams partner with brands for financial support. Sponsors might be gaming hardware companies, energy drinks, or even big-name brands like Nike. These deals can be very lucrative, especially for well-established teams.
2. Tournament Winnings: Teams can earn money by winning prize money from tournaments. Prize pools for big competitions can run into the millions of pounds, with the best teams often securing large portions of this money.
3. Merchandise Sales: Esports teams often sell branded merchandise, such as t-shirts, hats, and hoodies, to their fans. This is a great way for fans to show their support while also helping the team make money.
4. Streaming and Content Creation: Many esports teams and players stream their gameplay on platforms like Twitch or YouTube. Through donations, subscriptions, and ad revenue, players can make money by sharing their content with their fans.

Growing Your Esports Team: Tips for Long-Term Success

Starting your team is just the beginning. Here are some tips to ensure your team grows and thrives over time:

1. Improve Team Performance: Consistent training and performance reviews are key to improving. Make sure your team is regularly practising and analysing gameplay.
2. Expand Your Fanbase: Building a loyal following is vital for long-term success. Engage with your fans on social media, run giveaways, and consider streaming to attract more viewers.
3. Build Strong Partnerships: Strong relationships with sponsors, other teams, and organisations can open up more opportunities for your team. Look for ways to collaborate with others in the industry.
4. Compete in Bigger Tournaments: As your team improves, aim to compete in larger tournaments. Bigger competitions offer higher prize money and more exposure.

 

How BCE’s Esports Course Can Help You Start and Manage Esports Teams

If you’re serious about starting and growing an esports team, BCE’s Esports course is an excellent place to start. This course teaches the skills you need to succeed in the esports industry, including team management, event production, marketing, and business strategy. It covers everything from the basics of running a team to advanced topics like sponsorship management and broadcasting.

Even better, we have the Blackhorse Knights team on campus who stream regularly, attend competitions and events, organise social plays, and more.

Whether you’re planning to be a player, a team owner, or a manager, BCE’s course and esports team provides the knowledge and hands-on experience to help you achieve your goals in the exciting world of esports.

Conclusion

Esports is an industry full of opportunities for those who are passionate about gaming and competition. Starting and growing an esports team can be challenging, but with the right strategy, commitment, and knowledge, it’s definitely possible. 

By following the steps in this guide, you can lay the foundation for a successful esports team, build your brand, and even turn your passion into a profitable business. With the right support and education, such as BCE’s Esports course, you can take your skills to the next level and make your mark in the world of esports.