The YMCA of Southwestern New Brunswick brings competitive gaming to Saint John. The organization officially opened a new Esports room at the Regional Y. This space gives your kids a place to build friendships, develop life skills, and find a sense of belonging through gaming.

You will find structured Esports programming for youth and teens starting next week. According to Acadia Broadcasting, the goal is to create a safe and welcoming environment where young people gather around a shared interest.

Building Skills Beyond the Screen

The program provides more than just recreation. Staff note that Esports helps participants develop teamwork, communication, leadership, problem solving, and confidence while building social connections.

Ashley Doiron is the recreation supervisor with the YMCA of Southwestern New Brunswick. She says the program addresses concerns parents have about screen time by offering a structured and supervised setting.

“It is actually letting them have more tools in their toolbox, where you know, team building skills, communication skills, turn taking, and also doing it in an environment where it is very much monitored in a safe place,” Doiron said.

Many young people already spend time playing video games. The YMCA uses this program to help them connect with peers and develop skills they apply in other areas of life.

An Alternative to Traditional Sports

The organization sees the program as a major opportunity for youth who lack interest in traditional sports.

“Having a place for kids who do not necessarily like to play sports and, you know, they are kind of on the shy side, this gives them an opportunity,” Doiron said. “They create those friendships by teaching and learning and getting together.”

Program Details and Schedule

The first program is a Rocket League Academy. It begins October 5. Programming for youth aged 9 to 12 takes place on Mondays. Sessions for ages 13 to 18 happen on Thursdays.

Doiron says one of the main goals is to create a stronger sense of belonging among participants and help them form lasting friendships.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the new Esports room located?

The new Esports room is located at the Regional Y in Saint John.

When do the Esports programs start?

The first program begins on October 5 with a Rocket League Academy.

What age groups participate in the programs?

The YMCA offers programming for youth aged 9 to 12 on Mondays and teens aged 13 to 18 on Thursdays.

What skills do participants learn?

The program helps youth develop teamwork, communication, leadership, problem solving, and confidence in a supervised environment.