The Rochester YMCA Metro Esports and Tech Camps offer an exciting summer experience for kids and teens interested in gaming and technology. Campers will have the opportunity to engage in a variety of games including Minecraft, Fortnite, Roblox, NBA, and Madden. Our tech camp includes game design in Unreal Engine, content creation, JavaScript, and more!
ESPORTS CAMP
Get ready to game this summer at Metro Esports Camp! Learn new strategies and take your gaming to the next level. Join us for Minecraft, Fortnite, Madden, NBA, Roblox, and more!
TECH CAMPS
Join us for Metro Esports Tech Camp at the YMCA! Learn about game design, JavaScript, Unreal Engine, and content creation!
METRO ESPORTS CAMP FAQS
WHAT IS THE MINIMUM AGE REQUIREMENT FOR PARTICIPATING IN METRO ESPORTS?
- Age Requirement: The minimum age requirement for participating in esports is eight years old, anyone younger will not be allowed in the Metro Esports area. Games are age-restricted based on the participant’s date of birth and the game’s rating.
CAN I LEAVE MY CHILD THERE ALONE?
Yes, any child age 13 or older may play in the gaming lounge/YMCA without an adult. Kids must be at least 8 years old to enter. Kids 8-12 must have a guardian in the building. Kids 13+ may use the space without a guardian present. There will be Metro staff supervision at all times.
WHAT TIMES WILL PROGRAMS AND CAMPS BE OFFERED?
WHAT IS METRO ESPORTS?
Metro eSports & Entertainment Group is a digital sports and entertainment media company with a laser focus on leveraging the viral popularity of gaming and esports to attract, engage, and educate a broad and diverse community of gaming and technology enthusiasts. Metro Esports is partnered with some of the world’s most notable brands, such as Microsoft, T-Mobile and more.
Two goals drive us: creating access and building bridges. Metro has built several esports and STEM centers in partnership with other YMCAs. The YMCA of Greater Rochester is proud to partner with Metro to launch two gaming labs for our members at the Maplewood Family YMCA and Schottland Family YMCA.
WHAT SAFETY AND SECURITY MEASURES ARE IN PLACE TO PROTECT MY CHILD?
- Software and Hardware Safety: We utilize a combination of software and hardware for 24/7 in-game voice and text monitoring, daily activity reports, and threat notifications for issues like online predators, bullying, hate speech, sexual content, and scams. Our software will immediately remedy detected concerns by muting, kicking, or banning individuals or voice chats.
- Staff Supervision: Constant staff supervision and coaching ensure a safe environment for everyone, free of toxic language, bullying, predatory action, etc.
WHAT SHOULD MY CHILD BRING TO THE ESPORTS LOUNGE?
- Gaming Consoles and PCs: We provide the latest state-of-the-art gaming consoles and PCs, including PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, and Nintendo Switch. Participants may log into their own personal accounts or use a Metro “house account” available for all gaming titles on PC. All consoles utilize Metro accounts, and players may not use their own personal PSN, Xbox, or Nintendo accounts.
- Equipment: All PCs are equipped with industry-leading peripherals, including a headset, keyboard, mouse, mousepad, headset stand, microphone, and webcam.
- Personal Items: Visitors may bring their own controllers or peripherals if preferred. Note that Metro or the YMCA are not responsible for any damaged, lost, or stolen items.
Do you offer coding classes? How does that program work?
Metro offers a variety of coding and game design workshops/classes through the YMCA. Our interactive courses and workshops offer a unique blend of education and social engagement. Each program is designed to guide students through various game design, development, and business principles. Certified by STEM.org, these sessions establish a foundation in tech, fostering critical thinking and creativity. Experienced instructors empower students with skills crucial in the digital age, leaving each session with gained knowledge and an official certificate of completion.
CAN PARTICIPATING IN ESPORTS LEAD TO FUTURE CAREER OPPORTUNITIES?
- Career Opportunities: The global esports market is projected to reach $3 billion by 2025, offering many career paths in various fields. Engaging with esports introduces children to numerous career opportunities and learning pathways.
- College and Scholarships: Over 200 U.S. colleges offer esports scholarships, totaling more than $15 million annually. In 2021, over 5,000 esports scholarships were awarded, opening doors to higher education for talented students.
WHY SHOULD MY CHILD PARTICIPATE IN ESPORTS?
- S.T.E.A.M Learning: Esports fosters the development of technical skills, critical thinking, and creativity, inspiring interests in Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics. Metro Esports offers a variety of exciting and educational S.T.E.A.M programs, courses, classes, and workshops, including coding, game design, game development, computer building, animation, graphic design, broadcast engineering, content creation, and more.
- Social Development: Esports promotes teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills, bridging social gaps and creating strong bonds among diverse groups. It offers an outlet for team-based competition beyond traditional sports, promoting sportsmanship and a competitive spirit.
- Development: Participation in esports enhances hand-eye coordination, attention, visual acuity, problem-solving and strategy skills, self-confidence, and socialization.