Esports Teams: How They Work and How to Get Involved

Overview

Esports teams are organized groups that compete under a single banner in video game tournaments. A typical team combines players, coaches, analysts, managers, and content creators, all working together to win matches, build a brand, and attract sponsors.

What makes a team work

Clear roles, shared goals, and structured practice help teams improve quickly.

Team Structures

Franchised teams vs. independent organizations

Franchised teams join stable leagues with licensing and commitments; independent orgs field rosters across events and often rely more on sponsorships and owner investment.

Academy and development rosters

Many teams run lower-tier rosters to develop talent, providing coaching, practice time, and education resources.

Roles and leadership

Common roles include a general manager, head coach, analysts, and a player captain to coordinate strategy and culture.

Competition and Leagues

Tournaments and circuits

Teams compete in scheduled events, from regional leagues to large international events. Performance affects invitations, prize pools, and seeding.

Drafts, signings, and contracts

Players are signed to contracts with terms on duration, salary, performance incentives, and transfer rules.

Operations and Business

Revenue streams

Prize money, salaries, sponsorships, streaming revenue, merchandise, and ownership stakes all contribute.

Sponsorships and partnerships

Brands sponsor teams for exposure, while teams partner with hardware, energy drink, or media partners to create content and benefits.

Player welfare and contracts

Teams increasingly emphasize wellness, rest, scheduling, and fair contract terms.

Pathways to a Pro Career

Amateur circuits and online ladders

Many players start in amateur leagues, scrims, and online ladders before signing with an org.

Content creation and personal branding

Players often cultivate audiences on streams and social media to attract opportunities.

Tryouts and scouting

Scouts watch for performance, teamwork, and projection; tryouts may be offered by teams.

Trends and Challenges

Regional ecosystems and access

Different regions have varying levels of infrastructure, fees, and opportunities.

Diversity, equity, and inclusion

Efforts to broaden access and representation are ongoing.

Burnout and workload

Balancing practice, competition, and content creation is a common concern.

Getting Involved

If you’re a fan: follow teams and players

If you want to join: seek out academy rosters or open trials

If you want to form a team: build a practice plan, set roles, and start competing in online events