A new first-of-its-kind degree course from the University of Portsmouth is set to train the next generation of coaches and performance experts for esports.
Esports is competitive gaming and represents one of the fastest growing sectors globally. Tournaments can attract millions of spectators and large stadium crowds, to watch high-profile players compete for cash prizes and global recognition - such as the global Fortnite World Cup, which has a prize pool of upwards of $17m.
Esports comprises games from several different genres and players can play one-on-one or in teams. Much like in traditional sports, there are large sponsorship deals and, increasingly, transfer fees for players. Esports sponsorship revenue reached $641m in 2021, thanks in part to sponsorship from global companies like Coca-Cola, Gillette and Nike.
This new BSc (Hons) in Esports Coaching and Performance degree at the University of Portsmouth merges an understanding of gaming and technological skills with the psychology of sport and coaching in high performance environments - not dissimilar to the skillset of coaches in traditional sports.
Designed and delivered in partnership with IFoEC, the training partner of the International Federation of Esports Coaches, the new degree is a great next step for those who want to gain entry into a rapidly developing industry, develop a career as a coach in the field or acquire a range of transferable skills in leadership, communication and research, amongst others.
The course includes theory, research and practical experience to understand how to coach players to peak performance, and creating connections to the sector through expert lecturers and industry work experience placement to get hands-on experience.
David Price, course leader for BSc (Hons) in Esports Coaching and Performance, said: “The introduction of this course reflects the huge global interest in esports, and puts the University of Portsmouth firmly at the forefront of a fast-developing field. We look forward to welcoming our first cohort of students in September 2022, to help them become the next generation of coaches and performance experts in this exciting industry.”
Ends
Notes for editors:
The University of Portsmouth is a progressive and dynamic university with an outstanding reputation for innovative teaching and globally significant research and innovation.
It was rated 'Gold' in the UK government's Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) and was ranked in the top 150 under 50 in the world according to the Times Higher Education rankings.
The University's research and innovation culture is impacting lives today and in the future and addressing local, national and global challenges across science, technology, humanities, business and creative industries. http://www.port.ac.uk/
For further information:
Glenn Harris, Senior Media Manager (Research Themes), University of Portsmouth, Tel: 07809 757 779, email: glenn.harris@port.ac.uk