Program Overview

• Title: Level Up: Senior Esports Academy

• Goal: Empower seniors to play, compete, and connect through video games.

• Duration: 12-week program (flexible)

• Format: 2 sessions/week (90 min each) – mix of lecture, hands-on play, and group activity

Module 1: Introduction to Gaming

Weeks 1-2: Understanding the World of Esports

• What is gaming? What is esports?

• History of gaming (from Pong to today)

• Popular game genres (FPS, puzzle, strategy, simulation)

• Senior-friendly games (e.g., Mario Kart, Wii Sports, Fortnite Zero Build, Rocket League, Tetris Effect)

Activities:

• Try a few beginner games

• Watch a live esports match together

• Share personal gaming history

Module 2: Getting Comfortable with Technology

Weeks 3-4: Game Onboarding & Hardware Training

• PC vs Console vs Mobile

• Using a controller/keyboard/mouse

• Setting up user profiles and accounts

• Accessibility settings: large fonts, contrast, slow modes

Activities:

• Practice using game menus and options

• Customize accessibility features

• Mini “Tech Confidence” quiz and rewards

Module 3: Game Mechanics & Strategy

Weeks 5-6: Skills & Smarts

• Understanding game objectives, scoring, roles

• Communication in team games (using headsets, in-game chat)

• Reflex drills, map awareness, and strategy basics

Activities:

• Game-specific training in Overwatch, Rocket League, or Among Us

• Solo and co-op challenges

• Group review with replay footage

Module 4: Community & Culture

Weeks 7-8: Playing Together

• Game etiquette and online behavior

• Forming teams and playing matches

• Streaming basics (Twitch, YouTube)

• Finding online communities for seniors

Activities:

• Create a team name and logo

• Join a scrimmage or casual league

• Participate in a team-building game night

Module 5: Competitive eSports Training

Weeks 9-10: Leveling Up

• Advanced game strategies

• Practicing under pressure

• Reviewing matches and improving

• Healthy habits for gaming (breaks, ergonomics)

Activities:

• Coach-led practice matches

• Game film analysis

• Team scrim with commentary

Module 6: Tournament & Celebration

Weeks 11-12: Let’s Compete!

• Organize and run a local/in-house tournament

• Invite family and community to watch

• Awards: Best Teammate, MVP, Most Improved

Activities:

• Esports Showcase Event

• Certificate of Completion

• Signup for ongoing gaming club

Optional Add-Ons

• Travel Club for Gaming Conventions

• Senior Gaming League Formation

• Weekly Game Nights (post-program)

• Instructor Certification Program

 

Key Principles

• Fun first, competition second

• No shame in learning slow

• Celebrate milestones (first win, first stream, etc.)

• Use games as a social tool