IFK Östersund, a sports club founded in 1906 and primarily associated with football, has started an esports initiative in Östersund, Sweden. The program targets children aged 11 to 15 and offers two free gaming sessions per week. Östersund Municipality has assisted by providing a venue and purchasing 20 computers.
William Marklund, the esports manager at IFK Östersund, stated that the club aims to reach as many children as possible, offering them community, friends, and activities they enjoy, as esports opportunities have been lacking in the area. He emphasized that the program is not just a leisure center activity but includes coaching, tactics, planning, and analysis to help participants improve as players, similar to traditional sports teams. A 14-year-old participant noted that playing together creates a different atmosphere and has led to new friendships.
The club aims to reach as many children as possible, offering them community, friends, and activities they enjoy, as esports opportunities have been lacking in the area.
While the sessions are currently free, the club plans to introduce membership and training fees in the future, as with other sports. Beginners are welcome regardless of prior gaming experience.
The program is not just a leisure center activity but includes coaching, tactics, planning, and analysis to help participants improve as players, similar to traditional sports teams.
Playing together creates a different atmosphere and has led to new friendships.