The European Grassroots Esports project has successfully completed its pilot phase in Norway led by Viken Sport Region and the E-sport Alliance, focusing on increasing female participation in gaming and esports. The pilot aimed to recruit girls into esports clubs and promote inclusivity and positive engagement for female gamers. 

The project met its primary goal by significantly increasing the number of girls participating in esports initiatives. It also addressed three secondary objectives:

1. Supporting new learning and projects to include girls in grassroots esports.
2. Creating a safe and inclusive environment for girls in gaming.
3. Developing a robust template for future female-focused esports projects.

The pilot integrated European Grassroots Esports’ models, focusing on recruitment and community engagement through sports clubs and online platforms. Ethical conduct and inclusivity were central to the pilot's success.

Targeting girls aged 12 to 18, the project engaged over 800 participants and contributors. A major highlight of the pilot was an offline Valorant tournament held at Asker Cultural Center (Asker Kulturhus), specifically designed for female teams. This tournament not only provided a competitive platform but also served as a community-building event, attracting approximately 200 participants and featuring seven all-female teams.  Despite the overall success, the project faced several challenges, including the need for better equipment, improved venue management, and clearer and broader communication. The experience underscored the importance of continuous engagement with the target group throughout the pilot.

The pilot exceeded expectations, with around 200 participants at the opening event and seven female teams at the final tournament. Minor adjustments were made during implementation, but the pilot maintained its course and achieved its main milestones. The success of this initiative highlights the growing popularity of female grassroots esports in Norway.

For future projects, the Norwegian team suggests implementing unambiguous rules, distinct guidelines for online and offline events, and enhanced outreach efforts. Additional resources for recruitment and clear communication protocols with all stakeholders will also be crucial.

Overall, the pilot project has demonstrated that there is a strong interest in female grassroots esports in Norway, with a record number of female teams participating. While sustainable to some extent, the project requires further investment and sponsorship to expand. The success of this pilot can serve as a model for similar initiatives aimed at fostering inclusivity and participation for female gamers in esports. This pilot marks a significant step towards creating a more inclusive esports community and sets a solid foundation for future endeavours to support female gamers in Norway and beyond.

To access the full report, please follow the link: https://esports.isca.org/resources