How do new players find and join a reputable amateur Esports team?

Navigating the Amateur Esports Scene as a New Player

The world of esports is burgeoning, offering thrilling competitive opportunities not just at the professional level, but increasingly within the amateur scene. For many new players, the dream of joining a team and competing against others is a powerful motivator. However, the path to finding and joining a reputable amateur esports team can seem daunting. This guide will break down the essential steps, from self-preparation to making the final decision, ensuring a smoother journey into competitive gaming.

Step 1: Self-Assessment and Preparation

Before you even begin looking for a team, a crucial first step is to honestly assess your own skills and commitment. Reputable teams seek players who are not only skilled but also reliable and teachable.

• Master Your Game and Role: Deeply understand the mechanics, meta, and strategies of your chosen game. Specialize in one or two roles, becoming proficient rather than a jack-of-all-trades.
• Build a Strong Profile: Achieve a respectable rank in your game’s competitive ladder. A consistent high rank demonstrates skill and dedication. Record and review your gameplay to identify areas for improvement.
• Develop a Competitive Mindset: Esports requires mental fortitude. Be open to criticism, learn from losses, and maintain a positive attitude even under pressure. Communication and teamwork are paramount.
• Ensure Time Commitment: Amateur teams still require dedicated practice time, often several nights a week. Be realistic about how much time you can commit consistently.

Step 2: Where to Look for Potential Teams

Once you’re confident in your preparation, it’s time to start searching. Various platforms and communities facilitate team recruitment.

• Online Communities: Discord servers are goldmines for esports recruitment. Look for official game servers, regional esports hubs, and dedicated ‘looking for team’ (LFT) channels. Reddit (e.g., r/Competitive[GameName], r/TeamRecruitment) and game-specific forums are also excellent resources.
• Esports Platforms: Websites like FACEIT, ESEA, Battlefy, GameBattles, or Challonge often have LFT sections or host tournaments where you can observe teams and make connections. Some platforms even have integrated team-finding features.
• In-Game LFG Features: Many games now include in-game features or chat channels specifically for finding groups or teams. While these can be more casual, they’re a good starting point for networking.
• Networking and Word of Mouth: Play with as many skilled players as possible. Be friendly, communicate well, and make a good impression. Often, the best team opportunities come through people you’ve played with or against.
• Local Esports Events/LANs: If available in your area, attending local tournaments or LAN parties is a fantastic way to meet players in person and network directly.

Step 3: Identifying a Reputable Team

Not all teams are created equal. Finding a reputable team is crucial for a positive and productive experience. Be discerning in your search.

• Clear Communication and Organization: A good team will have clear communication channels (e.g., a dedicated Discord server), defined practice schedules, and an organized approach to strategy and VOD review.
• Track Record and Goals: Research their past performance. Have they competed in local leagues or online tournaments? Do their goals (casual competition, regional dominance, etc.) align with yours?
• Positive Team Dynamics: Observe how team members interact. Is there mutual respect, constructive criticism, and a healthy competitive spirit? Avoid teams with obvious toxicity or constant infighting.
• Coaching or Leadership Structure: A reputable team often has a dedicated shot-caller, captain, or even a coach who helps guide practices and strategy. This indicates a commitment to improvement.
• Speak to Current/Former Members: If possible, discreetly reach out to players who have been on the team (or left it) to get their honest insights into the team environment and management.

Step 4: The Application and Tryout Process

Once you’ve identified a few promising teams, it’s time to put your best foot forward.

• Craft a Compelling Application: Most teams will ask for an application. Highlight your in-game stats, competitive experience, availability, preferred roles, and especially your attitude towards teamwork and improvement. Be concise and professional.
• Prepare for Tryouts: Tryouts are your chance to shine. Be on time, communicate effectively, show your skill, and demonstrate adaptability. Don’t just focus on kills; focus on game sense, objective play, and synergy with the team.
• Ask Insightful Questions: Use the tryout period to interview the team as much as they’re interviewing you. Ask about their practice regimen, roles within the team, long-term goals, and how they handle disagreements.
• Understand Expectations: Clarify the expected time commitment, attendance requirements, and any specific rules or codes of conduct. Make sure these align with your own expectations and availability.

Step 5: Making the Decision and Integrating

After a successful tryout, you might receive an offer. This is where you make your final decision.

• Assess Team Chemistry: Beyond skill, personal fit is vital. Do you genuinely enjoy playing with these individuals? Can you see yourself spending many hours with them, both in and out of practice?
• Commitment Check: Reconfirm that the team’s commitment level matches yours. A mismatch can lead to frustration for all parties.
• Embrace Your Role: Once you join, fully commit to your designated role. Focus on how you can best contribute to the team’s success, even if it means adjusting your playstyle.
• Active Integration: Be proactive in integrating. Participate in discussions, offer constructive feedback, and be a positive force within the team. Building strong bonds takes effort.

Conclusion

Joining an amateur esports team is an incredibly rewarding experience that can sharpen your skills, build lasting friendships, and satisfy your competitive drive. By thoroughly preparing yourself, diligently searching in the right places, carefully vetting potential teams, excelling during tryouts, and committing to your role, you significantly increase your chances of finding a reputable team that fosters growth and success. The journey might take time and effort, but the satisfaction of competing alongside a dedicated group of players is well worth it.