An Exploration of High-Performance Environments in Esports: A Preliminary Model

The professionalisation of esports has led to increased investment in high-performance environments. However, differences in resources and infrastructure between major and minor regions pose significant challenges to achieving competitive parity. In this study, we aimed to explore key success factors in high-performance esports environments and develop a preliminary conceptual framework capturing the core elements of elite esports environments. Following semi-structured interviews with elite players (n = 10), coaches (n = 9), and support staff (n = 7) from major and minor esports regions, we generated three categories to represent key factors contributing to success in esports: training environment, interpersonal dynamics, and intrapersonal development. Major region players benefited from structured support, including dedicated training facilities, access to psychological services, and in-person team cohesion strategies. Alternatively, minor region players faced resource constraints, limited access to psychological and physical training, and appeared to be at increased risk of burnout. Based on the novel insights generated, we proposed a preliminary Esports High-Performance Model (EHPM), a multi-layered, context-specific framework that highlights the interconnectedness of the training environment, interpersonal dynamics, and intrapersonal development in high-performing esports environments. Our findings provide a foundation for future research and can be used to inform policies and practices supporting the development of sustainable, high-performance esports environments. We propose that the EHPM could be a promising way to address current challenges and consequences surfaced by disparities between minor and major regions, potentially aiding the rebalancing of the competitive landscape in esports and improving player well-being.