In communities across Wales, local sports clubs are the heartbeat of our towns and cities.

They foster pride, loyalty, and belonging — from the roar on match days to the camaraderie in clubhouses. But as clubs face rising costs and changing habits among younger generations, many are looking for new ways to grow, stay relevant, and diversify their income.

One opportunity is already at their fingertips: Esports.

And that’s where Esports Wales comes in helping traditional sports clubs evolve by entering the digital arena.

🎮 Esports Isn’t the Future — It’s the Present

Esports (competitive video gaming) is now a billion-pound global industry. Across the world, stadiums are filled with fans watching teams battle it out in games like FIFA, Rocket League, League of Legends, and Call of Duty. The viewership of major esports tournaments now rivals that of the UEFA Champions League.

And here in Wales, we’re building our own ecosystem — with local esports clubs, a national Welsh Esports League, and structured talent pathways.

Just as grassroots football or rugby clubs nurture the next generation of athletes, local esports clubs offer structure, identity, and competition — and they’re growing fast.

🏟️ From Clubhouse to Console: A New Revenue Stream

Here’s the opportunity: traditional sports clubs can now form esports divisions under their existing brands — and connect with new audiences, especially younger fans who already spend hours online.

Imagine a local rugby club hosting weekly FIFA or Rugby 25 nights in their function room, branded jerseys with the club crest sold to fans, or esports tournaments streamed live on the club’s social media channels — bringing in sponsorships, memberships, and footfall.

It’s already happening. Across Wales, we’re seeing local sports clubs launch their own esports teams, run community events, and attract a new demographic of supporters, volunteers, and even players.

And best of all: Esports Wales provides the framework, support, and visibility to make it happen.

🤝 What We Offer to Sports Clubs

Through partnership with Esports Wales, clubs get:

• Guidance on setting up an esports division under your current branding

• Access to the Welsh Esports League and regional tournaments

• Help organising community gaming nights or club-based competitions

• Marketing and branding support to reach new audiences

• Access to national coaching and safeguarding frameworks 

• Opportunities for grants and sponsorships focused on digital engagement

We can even help clubs turn unused rooms into “esports hubs” — boosting clubhouse usage during off-peak times. 

👥 Building the Next Generation of Fans

 This isn’t just about income — it’s about connection. Esports brings together young people from all backgrounds and gives them purpose, teamwork, and identity. It’s a chance for sports clubs to rebuild their role in the lives of 10 to 25-year-olds who may not engage with traditional sports — but still want to belong.

Whether it’s through casual gaming nights, online tournaments, or national competitions, your club can become a space for both boots and buttons — sport and screen.

🏁 Ready to Change the Game?

Welsh sports clubs have always been at the heart of innovation. Now is the time to think digitally — and locally.

If you run a club and want to explore esports, we’re ready to help.

Let’s build something new together — and make sure the next chapter of Welsh sport is as bold and community-driven as the last.

📩 Contact Esports Wales today to explore how your club can start its esports journey.

Website: esportswales.org
Email: contact@esportswales.org

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