Clubs are the lifeblood of esports in Wales, which is why we want to provide a helping hand. This website is packed with advice and guidance, and free-to-download policies and planning tools.
But first things first, we’ve outlined the 14 essential steps to get you started…
STEP 1: DECIDE WHAT TYPE OF CLUB YOU’RE GOING TO BE
Be clear about your vision for the club – what do you want to achieve? Who are you aiming to reach? What type of club atmosphere do you want? This is your Vision or Purpose.
STEP 2: ASK FOR HELP!
Many people are ready and willing to help you, including Esports Wales. It’s a good idea to speak to these trusted partners early on before you make any firm decisions about your new club.
STEP 3: IS THERE ANYTHING ELSE LIKE IT IN THE AREA?
Determine if there are similar clubs nearby offering the same things you intend to offer. You can find out by reviewing the Esports Wales club page.
STEP 4: IS THERE DEMAND?
It’s important to determine if there’s a demand for what you’re offering in your area.
So you’ve decided what type of club you want and know there’s demand. Now it’s time to put the basics in place…
STEP 5: CLUB COMMITTEE
A Committee is made up of different officials responsible for the day-to-day running of the club. The roles will vary depending on your club’s focus and size. Find out what a basic club structure looks like and get example role descriptions for committee members.
STEP 6: CLUB NAME
Your new club needs a name! Your name is important for attracting members. Once you have a club name, you can open a bank account, make funding applications, and start promoting yourself.
STEP 7: REGISTERING YOUR CLUB
Notify Esports Wales of your club’s name, and complete the registration form for review. This will add your details to any club directories, making it easier for new recruits to find you.
STEP 8: AFFILIATION
Once accepted affiliation with Esports Wales allows your club to enter competitions and offers training and qualifications for your coaches and officials. It may also provide benefits like safeguarding support and access to funding.
STEP 9: CLUB STRUCTURE
You have a few choices for the structure of your club – incorporated, unincorporated, or social enterprise. This decision affects the legal status of your club, so take time to do your homework before deciding.
STEP 10: CONSTITUTION
A constitution, or governing document, is essential for every club. It helps things run smoothly by spelling out the rules by which your club will operate and be managed. More information and examples are available here.
STEP 11: SORTING YOUR FINANCES
For your club to be successful, you need to get your finances in order. We have a dedicated section for this. Here are the basics to get you started with your finances.
STEP 12: INSURANCE
All clubs must be adequately insured to cover their activities.
STEP 13: RISK ASSESSMENT
Before any members undertake activities at your club, make sure you’ve read our Risk Assessment section, which covers health & safety, fire safety, and data protection.
STEP 14: RECRUIT
Now that you’ve done all your homework, it’s time to start recruiting volunteers and members. Check out our Club People section and the Promoting section for useful tips on spreading the word about your new club.