Players are the core of the esports industry, as all competitions and events are built around their performance. They compete individually or in teams, using in-game skill, teamwork, and strategy to win matches and tournaments.

Becoming a professional esports player requires dedication, skill, and consistent improvement. It is a highly competitive career with very few players reaching the top level.

Key steps to take to get into this career are:

• Developing strong in-game skill
• Compete in tournaments, leagues or school competitions to gain experience
• Build a reputation by joining teams, networking with other players
• Use social media or streaming to showcase skill and professionalism

Successful esports players demonstrate a range of skills and personal qualities, including:

• In-game Skill – High levels of accuracy, timing, and game knowledge
• Resilience – Ability to recover from losses and setbacks
• Adaptability – Adjusting to game updates, strategies, and opponents
• Teamwork – Working effectively with teammates to achieve shared goals
• Communication – Sharing clear information to coordinate tactics and decisions

A shoutcaster is a commentator who provides live commentary during esports matches. They explain gameplay, highlight key moments, and help audiences understand what is happening during competitions and events.

Becoming a professional shoutcaster requires strong communication skills, deep game knowledge, and confidence. Many shoutcasters begin at amateur or online events before progressing to larger tournaments.

Key steps to take to get into this career are:

• Develop strong knowledge of a specific game or esport
• Practise commentating on recorded or live matches
• Create a commentary portfolio or online content
• Gain experience at amateur, online, or school tournaments

Successful shoutcasters demonstrate a range of skills and personal qualities, including:

• Communication – Explaining gameplay clearly and engaging an audience
• In-game Skill – Strong understanding of game mechanics and strategies
• Confidence – Speaking clearly in live, high-pressure situations
• Multitasking – Watching gameplay while speaking and reacting in real time
• Adaptability – Responding to unexpected events during live matches

A coach supports esports players by improving their performance, teamwork, and strategies. They analyse gameplay, identify weaknesses, and help players develop the skills needed to succeed in competitive matches.

Becoming a professional esports coach requires strong game knowledge, leadership skills, and the ability to support and guide players. Many coaches begin as experienced players before moving into a coaching role.

Key steps to take to get into this career are:

• Gain strong understanding of a specific game or esport
• Develop leadership and communication skills
• Analyse gameplay and learn how to give constructive feedback
• Support amateur, school, or semi-professional teams

Successful esports coaches demonstrate a range of skills and personal qualities, including:

• Leadership – Guiding players and teams towards shared goals
• Communication – Explaining strategies and providing clear feedback
• Problem Solving – Identifying issues and improving team performance
• Teamwork – Working closely with players and support staff
• Adaptability – Adjusting strategies based on opponents and game updates

A referee ensures that esports matches are played fairly by enforcing rules and monitoring player behaviour. They make decisions during matches, resolve disputes, and help maintain a professional competitive environment.

Becoming an esports referee requires strong knowledge of game rules, fairness, and attention to detail. Referees often begin by supporting amateur or school competitions before progressing to higher-level events.

Key steps to take to get into this career are:

• Learn the rules and regulations of a specific game or esport
• Develop decision making and communication skills
• Gain experience at amateur, online, or school tournaments
• Demonstrate fairness, consistency, and professionalism

Successful esports referees demonstrate a range of skills and personal qualities, including:

• Decision Making – Making fair and accurate judgements during matches
• Communication – Clearly explaining decisions to players and officials
• Professionalism – Remaining calm, impartial, and respectful
• Attention to Detail – Monitoring gameplay and rule compliance
• Resilience – Handling pressure and criticism during competitive events

A journalist reports on esports news, events, and players. They create articles, interviews, and media content to inform audiences and help promote competitions, teams, and the wider esports industry.

Becoming an esports journalist requires strong communication skills, research ability, and an understanding of the esports industry. Many journalists begin by creating online content or writing for smaller publications before progressing to larger media outlets.

Key steps to take to get into this career are:

• Develop strong writing and communication skills
• Research esports games, teams, and competitions
• Create articles, blogs, or interview content
• Build a portfolio and share work online

Successful esports journalists demonstrate a range of skills and personal qualities, including:

• Communication – Writing clearly and engaging an audience
• Researching – Gathering accurate information and insights
• Content Creation – Producing articles, interviews, and media content
• Professionalism – Reporting fairly and responsibly
• Motivation – Staying driven to meet deadlines and improve work