How to Be An Esports Coach

The world of eSports has exploded in popularity, and as such, everyone is trying their hand at becoming a professional player in some game. However, one might argue that the quality of the coaches training these professional players is more important than the players themselves. After all, the coaches are the ones who train an average player to compete against professionals.

Now, there are several things you need to do if you want to become an eSports coach. Naturally, the first thing is to establish what game you want to coach players on. With that done, you want to develop strong communication skills, understand team dynamics, and analyze gameplay and strategy. Only with all of this done should you start networking to get exposure.

We're here to give you some valuable tips on how you can be an eSports coach yourself.

#1: Select and Master a Game

To truly excel as an eSports coach, you must first establish yourself as a master of the game you intend to coach. This isn't a surface-level understanding; it's a deep, comprehensive knowledge that only comes from hours of dedicated gameplay and study. Immersing yourself in the intricacies of the game's mechanics, meta, and strategies is a fundamental step. 

By achieving a high level of proficiency, you gain the respect and trust of your players. They look to you not just for strategic guidance but also as a source of inspiration. This mastery extends beyond individual gameplay to a broader understanding of team dynamics and strategic considerations. 

You should be capable of not only executing high-level plays yourself but also teaching these techniques to your players. This credibility is essential for your coaching effectiveness, as it creates a strong foundation for your leadership role.

#2: Develop Strong Communication Skills

In the realm of eSports coaching, communication is the cornerstone of success. As a coach, you serve as a bridge between your strategic vision and the players' execution. You need to translate complex strategies into easily understandable instructions. This means honing your ability to articulate ideas clearly and concisely.

However, communication isn't just about talking; it's also about listening. A successful coach is attuned to their players' needs, concerns, and feedback. Actively engaging with your team, whether it's to address a player's doubts or to seek input on strategies, demonstrates your commitment to their growth and improvement.

Moreover, strong communication is a cornerstone of team cohesion. You mediate discussions, provide constructive criticism, and foster an environment where players feel comfortable sharing their insights. 

Your role as a communicator extends beyond the game itself; you become a mentor, guiding players not only in strategy but also in the art of effective communication and collaboration.

#3: Understand Team Dynamics

Team dynamics encompass interpersonal relationships, communication styles, and individual motivations. As a coach, you're not just a strategist but also a mediator, mentor, and motivator. Building trust among team members is essential, enabling open communication and the freedom to express opinions without fear. 

Conflict resolution skills are vital, as clashes are natural in high-pressure environments. A coach must address these conflicts promptly, utilizing diplomacy and understanding to find resolutions that ultimately strengthen the team's bond.

Encouraging teamwork is a continuous effort. Coaches often organize team-building activities, where players engage in non-gaming interactions to build camaraderie. These activities forge deeper connections and enhance cooperation during actual gameplay. 

Furthermore, an adept coach identifies the strengths and weaknesses of each player, assigning roles that align with their skills while also pushing them to improve in areas of weakness.

#4: Analyze Gameplay and Strategy

The meticulous analysis of gameplay and strategy is a cornerstone of their responsibilities. This process is akin to a chess master reviewing their games, dissecting each move to uncover hidden patterns and opportunities. Coaches use recording tools to capture matches, which then become invaluable learning resources.

The analysis phase involves reviewing both victories and defeats. It's a holistic approach, focusing not only on the grand strategies but also on individual performances, decision-making, and the team's overall synergy. 

This scrutiny isn't meant to criticize but to uncover areas of improvement. A coach collaborates with players during analysis, encouraging them to self-reflect and actively participate in refining their gameplay.

From this analysis emerges the individualized training plans that set the course for player development. Just as no two players are identical, no two training plans are the same. 

Coaches work closely with players to set realistic goals, address weaknesses, and enhance strengths. This approach fosters a sense of personal growth and achievement, as players see themselves evolve under the coach's guidance.

#5: Start Networking

For aspiring eSports coaches, developing a strong network and getting your name out there can be just as critical as mastering the game itself. Let's dive into how networking and exposure can propel your eSports coaching career to new heights.

Networking begins with reaching out to fellow coaches, players, analysts, and event organizers. Attend eSports events, tournaments, and conferences where you can interact with individuals who share your passion. 

These events provide the perfect opportunity to strike up conversations, exchange ideas, and learn from seasoned professionals.

One very good way of getting the required experience to be an eSports coach is by coaching for well-known websites like Eloking. Not only will you build a background in coaching but you'll also be able to make valuable sources and some money on the side. Win-win, right?