Grassroots esport - European Grassroots Esport

European Grassroots Esport is a cross-sector cooperation that arises as a solution to the pointed negative aspects and challenges that gaming and esports are presenting for society as largely individualised and home-based activities. Gaming and esports have become a global phenomenon among young people and recent research studies show the challenging tendencies in the gaming and esports cultures, easily perceived solely as a problem and the antithesis of active lifestyles. With the cross-disciplinary expertise of our partners, we are taking the strong value-based grassroots sport sector as a starting point with the goal of promoting the sport values of health, inclusion, respect and responsibility to a related sector (esport) which is today somewhat marked by commercialisation, individualism, sedentariness and toxic language. Main objective: Develop, promote and scale grassroots esport clubs as a concept and model across Europe, based on the values of health, inclusion, respect and responsibility. This project will enable local sport clubs and schools to reach out to young esport practitioners and gamers and include them in value-driven communities that provide them a chance to meet, share their passion, play and learn how to lead balanced and physically active lifestyles. They can train, have fun and compete. We argue that local communities have an important role in including young gamers and esport players in meaningful, social activities. Positive social behaviour, healthy lifestyle, fair play and inclusivity are club values that may address some shortcomings of the current gaming and esport culture. Specific objectives: 1. Prepare the foundation for implementing grassroots esport across Europe 2. Enhance awareness of the individual and social benefits of responsible esport practice 3. Build capacity to deliver grassroots esport activities 4. Evaluate progress and draw learnings