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PLAY ESPORTS AT THE Y

The YMCA of San Diego County's esports program enables students to realize their full potential in a variety of settings beyond the classroom. Through our on-site locations, students can increase their knowledge of concepts in a classroom setting through team play, projects and games. Students can use their creativity and imagination in the virtual esports world, under the real-world guidance and instruction of Y staff. Participating in this program will increase the students' sense of community and teamwork, as well as their individual strengths and problem-solving skills, through applying gaming and strategy to practical concepts like design and robotics.

Esports are video game competitions for individuals and teams of children ages 8-12 and ages 12-17. YMCA esports encourage and promote healthy kids, families and communities by placing a priority on involvement and healthy competition, rather than rivalry, as well as the value of participation over winning, team-building and the individual development of a positive self-image and mutual respect for others. Gamers in the Y's leagues and tournaments will enjoy gameplay in Fortnite, League of Legends, Minecraft, Rocket League, Smash Bros. Ultimate and many more! 

Esports leagues coming soon! 

child playing video game

 

JOIN US IN PERSON

 

Join us in person or remotely from the comfort of your home via a lobby system in order to join matches at our onsite, central location: Mission Valley YMCA Digital Studio.

Players can play multiple game titles enjoy supervised play and instructional classes.

Learn about the digital studio

ESPORTS OPTIONS

Enjoy gaming and esports-friendly competition through gaming clubs or leagues.

GAMING CLUBS

YMCA Gaming Clubs take place online and in person at Mission Valley YMCA. Gaming clubs are offered for ages 8-12 and 13-17. Gaming clubs play a variety of games from Smash Bros. Ultimate to FIFA. 

LEAGUES

Esports Leagues are video game competitions for individuals and teams that take place online. As with all YMCA leagues, YMCA esports will encourage and promote healthy kids, families and communities by placing a priority on involvement and healthy competition rather than rivalry. Esports leagues encourage team building, individual development and participation over winning as well as building a positive self-image and mutual respect for others.

ESPORTS LEAGUES COMING SOON!

Want to practice your gaming skills before signing up for our Esports Leagues? Learn all about our gaming classes and clinics here!

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Why should I support my child in their interest of gaming and esports?

YMCA esports is the development of values through a progressive program emphasizing skill development, fun, physical fitness and friendly competition. 

All youth have the opportunity to play and families are encouraged to participate.

Additional benefits include:

  • Improved hand-eye coordination.
  • Improved attention & visual acuity.
  • Improved basic visual processing and executive function.
  • Problem-solving & strategy skill development.
  • 71% of parents report gaming having net positive effects for children.
  • Boosts self-confidence and player socialization.
  • 54% of gamers say gaming helps them connect with friends.
  • In the span of just five years, over 125 higher education institutions have created varsity collegiate esports programs.
  • More than thirty U.S. colleges and universities offer scholarships for gamers.

 Does the YMCA supply equipment?

All players will supply their own equipment for esports league and tournaments. Systems can include Nintendo Switch, Xbox, PlayStation or PC.

 Do I have to be a YMCA Member?

No, the league is open to anyone ages 8-12 and 12-17. YMCA members will receive a discounted program fee.

 Do I register as a team or does YMCA form teams?

All players that are participating in a multiplayer game must register as a team. The YMCA will not put players together to form teams. Register with fellow friends or classmates.

Do I play remotely or in person?

All play will take place online and on a computer. There is the opportunity for interactive, in person classes and leagues in select locations, like the Mission Valley YMCA Digital Studio.

QUESTIONS?

For more information about esports, please contact Digital Studio Coordinator, Thomas Beamon at [email protected].