Esports on the rise

With the rise in popularity of Esports, Colin Webster of Mind Sports South Africa met with the NEWS to discuss the sport.

Webster, general secretary of MSSA, said gaming and electronic sports is growing internationally and gaining strength in South Africa.

“MSSAs aim is to cater for community members who do not play physical sports,” said Webster.

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The national federation is responsible for Esports, figurine war games, certain board and card games.

Since 2005, 128 Esport Protea colours have been presented to players.

On February 10, 27 learners received school provincial colours at an online interschool championship.

“In 2010 we only had three Esport school clubs, now we have over 60 school clubs,” said Webster.

Some of the schools involved include Saheti School, Jeppe High School for Boys and St Benedict’s.

Webster began his involvement in mind sports while at university.

The former swimmer said he and friends would play figurine war games against each other.

“I enjoy the war games because it is like a three-dimensional chess game,” said Webster.

In Webster’s opinion mind sports often teaches players problem-solving skills.

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“No matter what you play it’s unlikely you will face the same scenario more than once,” said Webster.

Dealing with different situations encourages out of the box thinking.”

Webster strongly believes that through Esports children can build a better future for themselves.

He said the sport teaches children basic computer skills.

“As technology advances, it is essential for children to understand and have basic computer skills,” said Webster.

Webster said despite the growth in the Esports there is a negative perception about those who play it.

He said many parents and schools believe Esports distracts learners from academics and physical activities.

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To promote school work and sports many schools have requirements for their Esport teams and clubs.

“At some schools, children need to play a physical sport in order to play Esports for the school,” said Webster.

“In my opinion, it works quite well because the children get out and work their muscles.”

To start a registered Esport club email mindsportsSA@iafrica.com