9 Reasons Esports is a Legit Career (and Why We're All About It at Game On)

Remember when people said, “You’ll never get anywhere playing video games”? Well… surprise! The esports industry has levelled up, and now it’s a multi-billion-dollar global phenomenon.  

That’s why Game On (proudly run by IDF St George) partnered with Vanta Leagues to launch a brand-new esports hub! We didn’t do so just because gaming is fun (which it is), but because esports is packed with real-deal career potential.

Here are nine reasons why esports is an awesome trade and career path for young people (and why we’re backing it 100%).

1. It’s a Real Industry with Real Jobs

Think esports is just about pressing buttons and scoring headshots? Think again. Esports is now a multi-billion-dollar global industry that supports thousands of jobs.

From professional players and coaches to event managers, broadcast directors, analysts, IT technicians, and marketing pros, esports is full of career opportunities that don’t require a suit and tie.

Whether you want to be behind the camera, behind the scenes, or behind a controller, there's a legit career path here, and it’s growing fast.

2. Teamwork Makes the Dream Work

Esports is a team sport. Whether you're playing competitively or working together on a content channel, you must communicate, collaborate, and remain calm under pressure.

Just like in any workplace, successful esports players need to listen, plan, and adapt. These are real-world skills that transfer to almost any job – whether you're leading a team at a retail store or coordinating logistics for an event.

At our IDF hub, we see this in action: players cheering each other on, bouncing ideas around, and learning how to win (and lose) with grace.

3. It’s Techy In the Best Way

Esports is a brilliant gateway into the tech world. Players quickly learn how to use streaming software like OBS, troubleshoot hardware issues, manage game servers, and edit highlight reels.

That’s before we even get to careers like game design, programming, IT support, and cybersecurity, all of which are in high demand right now.

By diving into esports, you're learning to navigate digital platforms with confidence – perfect prep for jobs that value tech-savviness.

4. It Sparks Creative Careers

If you're someone who lights up at the idea of editing videos, designing graphics, or building a brand online, esports is your playground. Behind every team or streamer is a team of creatives making the content shine.

At IDF, we’re encouraging participants to think beyond the game. Want to start your own YouTube channel? Stream on Twitch? Build a personal gaming brand with logos, themes, and soundtracks? We’re here for it.

The esports world thrives on creativity, making it a powerful platform for young people with big ideas and bold personalities.

5. It’s a Global Industry (That You Can Join from Anywhere)

One of the coolest things about esports? It’s truly global. You can join a tournament in Japan, learn from a coach in Germany, or play on a team with people from three different continents – all without leaving your chair.

This means you don’t have to move cities or spend a lot of money to pursue a career. You can start small, build up your skills, and connect with the world from right here in Arncliff.

Our esports hub gives participants access to the tech, training, and community to get started, no passport required.

6. It Builds Focus, Resilience & Strategy

Winning a match takes more than fast fingers; it takes mental strength. Esports encourages players to:

• Stay focused under pressure.

• Learn from failure and try again.

• Adapt strategies on the fly.

• Think critically and creatively.

It’s basically a brain workout… but with more explosions. And the resilience built through gaming often carries over into everyday life, helping participants tackle challenges with confidence.

7. It’s a Trade with Options

Think esports is just for pro players? Think again. Behind every big game or streamed match is an entire crew making it happen.

Some of the career pathways include:

• Event and tournament management

• Coaching and mentoring new players

• Digital marketing and sponsorship

• Admin and logistics support

• Community management and moderation

Our Gaming Hub is designed to help participants discover these roles and find one that suits their skills and interests.

8. It’s Inclusive and Empowering

Esports doesn’t care about your background, ability, or age. What matters is how you play, how you connect with others, and the energy you bring.

That’s why our hub is open, inclusive, and designed to be a safe and welcoming space for everyone. It’s a place where young people with intellectual disabilities can build confidence, belong to a team, and be celebrated for what they can do – not defined by what they can’t.

We’ve already seen our participants grow in confidence, support each other, and show serious talent. The joy is real and the future is bright.

9. It’s Fun (and Fun Should Be Part of Work)

Let’s not forget: gaming is FUN. It’s energetic, engaging, and full of moments that make you shout, laugh, and cheer. And that kind of energy? It’s exactly what the future of work needs.

The best careers are the ones that light you up, and esports is proof that you can build something meaningful doing what you love. At the end of the day, if you can combine passion with purpose, you’ve already won.

At the Intellectual Disability Foundation of St George, we’re proud to create spaces where young people can dream big, play hard, and shape their own futures. Whether you want to be a player, coach, content creator, or just part of the action – we’ve got a controller with your name on it.

Game on, legends. Let’s level up.