Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Minnesota received pass-through funding from Boys & Girls Clubs of America to launch Esports programming. The Esports program provides youth with a structured and supportive environment to engage in competitive and recreational gaming while developing critical skills such as teamwork, communication, and strategic thinking. Esports goes beyond gaming—it fosters leadership, sportsmanship, and STEM learning opportunities.
Esports programming is currently running at the Southside Club with an Esports lounge in the Best Buy Teen Tech Center. We added a lounge at Eastside Boys & Girls Club, and the recent remodel of the Little Falls Club also includes an Esports lounge.
“Our goal is to have an Esports lounge and program at each of our 5 Boys & Girls Clubs as part of our commitment to provide quality STEM programming that meets the needs and interests of our teens,” said Geri Bechtold, Vice President of Operations for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Minnesota. “We hope to install Esports lounges at the Roosevelt and Discovery Boys & Girls Clubs within the next year.”
The Esports program provides an opportunity for Club members to participate in competitions with popular games like Madden, Fortnite, Pico Park, Rocket League, and other approved games, and learn techniques for a positive player experience.
Key Features of the Esports Program:
- Competitive & Recreational Gaming – Youth participate in organized Esports leagues, tournaments, and casual play, developing skills in popular games while learning the importance of healthy gaming habits.
- Teamwork & Leadership Development – The program emphasizes collaboration, strategic planning, and effective communication, helping youth build valuable leadership and problem-solving skills.
- STEM & Career Exploration – Esports introduces participants to potential career paths in game design, coding, broadcasting, and other technology-related fields, connecting gaming with future opportunities.
- Positive Digital Citizenship – Youth learn about online etiquette, sportsmanship, and responsible gaming, ensuring they engage in a respectful and inclusive gaming community.
During the summer, the Boys & Girls Club will host monthly inter-Club Esports tournaments. We will provide more information about summer schedules and tournament dates soon.
Annual membership to the Boys & Girls Club is FREE, and Esports programming is just one of the many opportunities available for youth on a daily basis. Boys & Girls Clubs are open from school dismissal until 7 p.m. for K-5 and 8 p.m. for 6-12th graders, and snacks and meals are provided daily. For more information on the programs the Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Minnesota provides or to register your child, visit www.bgcmn.org/clubs.