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Published (Version of record)CC BY-NC-ND V4.0, Open Access
Published (Version of record)CC BY-NC-ND V4.0, Open
Journal article
An exploration of high-performance environments in esports: A preliminary model
Journal of sports sciences, Vol.43(20), pp.1-24
2025
PMID: 40717332
Appears in Recent Faculty of Health Publications
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Abstract
The professionalisation of esports has led to increased investment in high-performance environments. However, disparities in resources and infrastructure between major and minor regions remain a challenge to achieving competitive parity. We explored key success factors in elite esports environments and developed a preliminary conceptual model to capture the core elements identified. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with elite players ( = 10), coaches ( = 9), and support staff ( = 7) from major and minor regions. Three categories were developed to represent the key success factors: training environment, interpersonal dynamics and intrapersonal development. Players from major regions benefited from structured support, including dedicated training facilities, psychological services, and in-person cohesion-building strategies. In contrast, minor region players faced resource limitations, restricted access to support services, and appeared at high risk of burnout. From these findings, we proposed the Esports High-Performance Model (EHPM), a multi-layered, context-specific preliminary model illustrating the interplay between training conditions, social dynamics, and individual development in high-performance esports settings. This model offers a foundation for future research and can inform policies to support healthy, sustainable esports environments. The EHPM also provides a promising platform of evidence upon which to develop policies and practices that address disparities between regions.
Details
- Title
- An exploration of high-performance environments in esports: A preliminary model
- Creators
- Dylan R Poulus - Southern Cross UniversityPatricia C Jackman - University of LincolnJob Fransen - Charles Sturt UniversityRemco C J Polman - Federation UniversityKyle J M Bennett - Southern Cross University
- Publication Details
- Journal of sports sciences, Vol.43(20), pp.1-24
- Publisher
- Taylor & Francis Group
- Grant note
- This research was funded by the Australian Sports Commission research and development grants: 0005323.
- Identifiers
- 991013300724302368
- Copyright
- © 2025 The Author(s).
- Academic Unit
- Human Sciences; Faculty of Health
- Language
- English
- Resource Type
- Journal article