So, you’re thinking about how to start an esports team? You’ve probably spent hours grinding ranked, shouting strats with friends on Discord, and watching pros dominate on Twitch. Now you’re wondering, what if we actually made a team? Not just a casual group, but something real. Something structured. The kind of squad that enters esports tournaments picks up fans, and maybe even pulls in sponsors.
It’s a great idea but here’s the truth: starting an esports team isn’t just picking a name and queuing up. It takes planning, consistency, and a bit of business sense. This guide breaks down the whole process of recruiting players, choosing your game, setting goals, managing your brand, and competing smart so you can skip the guesswork and focus on building a team that actually has a shot.
1. Define Your Vision and Purpose
Before anything else, be clear about why you want to start an esports team. Is it for fun? To build a local community? Or are you aiming for pro-level competitive gaming?
Your vision will shape every decision, from which game you focus on to how much time and money you invest. Be honest with yourself and your goals. This is your foundation.
Ask yourself:
- What game or genre do we want to specialize in?
- Are we building a casual squad or a serious esports brand?
- Who are our target audience fans, stream viewers, and sponsors?
2. Choose the Right Game
Not all games are created equal in esports. Choose one based on your team’s skill level, the game’s competitive ecosystem, and its growth potential.
Popular esports titles to consider:
- Valorant (tactical shooter)
- League of Legends (MOBA)
- Dota 2 (MOBA)
- CS2 (first-person shooter)
- Fortnite (battle royale)
- Rocket League (sports/action hybrid)
Research the game’s tournament scene, community size, and player support systems. Some games have thriving grassroots esports tournaments, while others are dominated by well-funded orgs.
3. Build a Core Esports Team
Once your game is chosen, it’s time to find players. Don’t just go for high skill; look for people who:
- Communicate well
- Handle pressure
- Show up consistently
- Are open to feedback
Start with a core roster (3–5 players, depending on the game) and define roles clearly. Include subs if needed.
Where to recruit:
- Reddit (e.g., r/TeamReddit, r/LookingForGroup)
- Discord servers
- Esports forums
- Local gaming clubs
Remember, team chemistry is just as important as raw skill.
4. Assign Roles and Structure
Even amateur teams need structure. A chaotic squad with no leadership won’t go far.
Define key roles:
- Team captain: In-game leader, decision-maker
- Manager: Handles scheduling, communication, and admin tasks
- Coach/Analyst (optional): Reviews gameplay, offers feedback
- Content creator/streamer (optional): Builds online presence
You don’t need a huge staff from day one. Just ensure someone is keeping things organized.
5. Set Up Training and Practice Schedules
Esports success is 10% talent and 90% grind. Regular practice is a must. Create a weekly schedule that includes:
- Scrims (practice matches)
- VOD reviews (watching past games to analyze mistakes)
- Aim training or drills
- Strategy meetings
Consistency beats burnout. Find a balance that keeps motivation high without overloading the team.
6. Handle the Legal Side: Contracts and Communication
Once you’re serious about competing, it’s time to protect both the players and the team. Player contracts are essential, even if you’re starting out.
They should cover:
- Expectations (attendance, conduct)
- Payment terms (if applicable)
- Streaming rights
- Branding/merch rights
- Exit terms
If you’re unfamiliar with legal documents, there are contract templates available, but consulting a lawyer is a smart move if you’re investing real money.
7. Branding: Make Your Team Stand Out
Your team brand is how the world sees you. Invest in a solid logo, a catchy team name, and consistent visuals across platforms.
Set up:
- Social media pages (Twitter, Instagram, TikTok)
- Twitch/YouTube channels
- A basic team website or landing page
Fans and gaming sponsors are more likely to engage with a team that looks professional, even if you’re still grinding through online brackets.
8. Enter Esports Tournaments
Start small. Look for community cups, local LANs, or online open brackets. Websites like Battlefy, Faceit, Toornament, and ESL Play regularly host competitions for all skill levels.
Use Esports tournaments to:
- Gain experience
- Build team synergy
- Gather clips for highlight reels
As you grow, aim for bigger leagues or closed qualifiers. Just don’t skip the stepping stones.
9. Funding and Sponsors
Running a team costs money, gear, travel, tournament fees, and marketing. Most beginner teams self-fund or split costs. But over time, look for revenue opportunities:
- Sponsorships from local brands or gaming products
- Streaming/content monetization
- Merchandise (tees, hoodies)
- Tournament winnings
Approach sponsorships professionally. Create a pitch deck that shows what your team offers audience size, engagement, and reach. Highlight your vision and competitive edge.
10. Engage with the Community
A strong team isn’t just about winning. It’s about building a presence. Be active on social media. Stream practices. Post memes. Shout out to other teams.
This helps:
- Grow your fanbase
- Attract future players
- Appeal to sponsors and brand partners
The esports community thrives on connection. Be part of it, not just observers.
Final Thoughts: How to Start an Esports Team
Starting an esports team is exciting but it’s also work. The most successful orgs didn’t start at the top. They built their brand one scrim, one video, and one match at a time.
Focus on the basics:
- Clear goals
- Strong team dynamics
- Consistent training
- Solid branding
- Long-term mindset
If you’re serious, treat your team like a startup. That means planning, learning, adjusting, and always grinding. With the right mix of strategy and passion, your esports team can make it and even shake up the scene.
