Esports

The YMCA of Southwestern New Brunswick is levelling up its approach to youth programming with a new Esports room in Saint John.

The organization officially opened the space Thursday at the Regional Y, saying it’s designed to help young people build friendships, develop life skills and find a sense of belonging through gaming.

The new room will host structured Esports programming for youth and teens beginning next week.

Doiron said the goal was to create a safe and welcoming environment where young people can gather around a shared interest.

“We wanted to open that opportunity to youth to have a safe environment to play video games competitively or recreationally and come together as a community,” said Ashley Doiron, recreation supervisor with the YMCA of Southwestern New Brunswick.

The program is intended to provide more than recreation.

During Thursday’s launch, staff said Esports can help participants develop teamwork, communication, leadership, problem-solving and confidence while building social connections.

Doiron said the program also addresses concerns some parents may have about screen time by offering a structured and supervised setting.

“It’s actually letting them have more tools in their toolbox, where you know, team-building skills, communication skills, turn-taking, and also doing it in an environment where it’s very much monitored in a safe place,” she said.

She added that many young people already spend time playing video games, but the YMCA hopes the program will help them connect with peers and develop skills that can be applied in other areas of life.

The organization also sees the program as an opportunity for youth who may not be interested in traditional sports.

“Having a place for kids who don’t necessarily like to play sports and, you know, they’re kind of on the shy side, this gives them an opportunity,” Doiron said.

“They can create those friendships by teaching and learning and getting together.”

The first program, a Rocket League Academy, is scheduled to begin Oct. 5.

Programming for youth aged nine to 12 will be held on Mondays, while sessions for ages 13 to 18 are planned for Thursdays.

Doiron said one of the YMCA’s goals is to create a stronger sense of belonging among participants and help them form lasting friendships.