esports Programs

YMCA esports is a competitive program that allows children and teens the opportunity to come together and enjoy playing video games as a team or individually in a positive, safe environment. Participants can develop their communication, collaboration and critical-thinking skills while staying connected, making friends, and learning new skills.

We offer a diverse selection of age-appropriate games, from problem-solving adventures to strategic challenges. Our curated collection ensures a balance between entertainment and educational value. Games include: Super Smash Bros.™ Ultimate, Mario Kart™ 8 Deluxe, Rocket League, Marvel Rivals; Platforms/consoles include: Gaming PCs, Playstation 5, Xbox, Nintendo Switch.

Current Offerings

esports Leagues

This competitive program for middle and high school students allows children and teens the opportunity to come together and enjoy playing video games as a team or individually in a positive, safe environment. Over the course of each 10-week session, participants can develop their communication, collaboration and critical-thinking skills while staying connected, making friends and learning new skills. Leagues will meet two times per week, including one practice day and one day for competitive game play.

Program Details

• Dates Held: September 8 - November 14, 2025
• Registration Deadlines: Registration opens July 21; Registration closes August 29
• Offered at: Speer YMCA
• Ages vary by league:
  • Rocket League for grades 6 - 8 (Meets Mondays & Wednesdays, 7 - 8PM)
  • Super Smash Bros. League for grades 6 - 8 (Meets Mondays & Wednesdays, 6 - 7PM)
  • Super Smash Bros. League for grades 9 - 12 (Meets Tuesdays & Thursdays, 6 - 7PM)
  • Marvel Rivals League for grades 9 - 12 (Meets Tuesdays & Thursdays, 7 - 8PM)
• Cost: Non-Member $350; Y Members $250
  
  • Our custom-designed esports jerseys are included in your registration fee. We'll collect your child's size during registration, handle the ordering and distribute on the first day of the program.

Online Registration

If zero results found when clicking "Online Registration" either no sessions are currently open for registration, or all current sessions are full. Please check back for future offerings or contact us for details.

esports Open Play

During Open Play, Y Members can "drop-in" and have the opportunity to play games on gaming consoles in the Technology Lab, which include computers, Xbox, Playstation or Nintendo Switch. Parents may drop off children and workout, but must remain in the facility while their children are in the Technology Lab, and must return to pick up their child when the hour of game play is complete.

• Ages: 6 - 13
• Cost: FREE
• Please refer to our online and in-app schedules for the most up-to-date hours of availability. Choose "Technology Lab" as the Area to easily view these offerings. 

Benefits of esports at the Y

• Teamwork: Games often involve working together on a team to complete a task, goal or objective. Players must be able to differentiate when they need to to take the lead and when to follow for the overall good of the group.
• Leadership: Teams are successful when there is a leader offering guidance and delegating tasks. Leaders can shift from minute to minute in fast-paced games, and players should be ready to take on the challenge.
• Online Safety: Games are moderated by an adult at all times in a safe and inclusive environment. All identities of everyone who is playing together will be known, eliminating the danger that is often found in online communities.
• Individual Growth: Of course playing on a team develops social skills, teamwork and more -- but not every game will be a team cooperative. At times, players will need to rely on their own skills, which helps boost confidence. There is multitude of opportunities for youth to grow and thrive.
• Equity Focus: All players can come to the table with the same opportunity. Playing behind the screen eliminates bias and any preconceived notions players may have for or against one another. Instead, we promote a positive, inclusive environment where everyone can succeed.