How esports creates a home for all

The best victories aren’t just earned—they’re shared, just like a well-deserved chicken dinner.

You’re about to parachute into the action, adrenaline pumping and the sound of your squad’s messages filling your headphones. But hold up—this isn’t just a game; it’s a whole vibe. Welcome to the Humber Esports team, where gamers from all walks of life unite for something bigger than just a match. This is where diversity thrives, teamwork reigns supreme and a sense of belonging is created in a space that breaks down barriers.

Esports fosters an inclusive environment where students can come together — no matter their background or experience level — to build lasting connections, learn from each other and strive for victory. It’s not just about the thrill of the game; it’s about the journey you take with your teammates, working in unison toward a shared goal and celebrating every small win along the way.

Here at Humber Polytechnic and the University of Guelph-Humber, the passion for gaming goes hand in hand with building community, which creates new opportunities for student engagement and gives everyone the chance to rise to the challenge in the scenarios below:

Diversity drop: everyone’s in the game

A man in tactical gear parachutes into a modern outdoor setting with the words 'DROPPING IN'. — *Via GIPHY*

In the world of gaming, there’s no such thing as “one size fits all.” Even if you’ve been dropping into games since day one or you’re just learning how to navigate your first map, there’s a place for you at esports. Think of it like PlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds (PUBG)—everyone might start with different gear, skills and experience, but once the match begins, you’re all in it together.

Our squad is a true melting pot, bringing together players from different backgrounds, cultures and gaming levels. Some might be seasoned competitors with lightning-fast reflexes, while others are here to level up their skills and find their rhythm. But that’s the beauty of it—this diversity is what makes us stronger, more adaptable and ultimately, unstoppable.

Life is not just about ranking up or stacking wins; like in esports, it’s about building a community where everyone feels included. May it be you’re pulling off clutch plays, calling out strategies or just enjoying the camaraderie of the game, you have a role to play. So, whether you’ve got a 10-kill game in you or you’re still getting used to looting and rotating, know this: there’s always a spot for you to shine.

Squad up: teamwork is the real chicken dinner

A group of heavily armed operatives work together in a desert combat scene, with the word 'TEAMWORK'. — *Via GIPHY*

Let’s be real: in PUBG, victory isn’t just about being the last one standing—it’s about the squad that’s got your back. “Winner winner chicken dinner;” the phrase is displayed as a celebratory victory message when a player is able to be the sole survivor of a match. But for many, it isn’t just a phrase; it’s the ultimate badge of teamwork, strategy and resilience. You need your squad for the perfect drop, for covering each other when the zone’s closing in and for staying calm under pressure when the fight gets heated.

The Humber esports team takes this same energy and brings it to life. Whether in the virtual world or the real world, success comes from trusting your team, communicating like a pro and sticking together to win. It’s not just about gaming skills—it’s about life skills. And when you’ve got that squad camaraderie, every victory tastes even sweeter—just like that well-earned chicken dinner.

Looting for opportunities: esports IRL

A supply drop crate with a blue tarp emits red smoke in an open field, while a military-style vehicle approaches from the background. — *Via GIPHY*

Alright, let’s talk about loot a.k.a. the collection of items picked up by the player character that increase their power or level up their abilities, such as currency, spells, equipment and weapons. At school, there’s plenty of loot to grab. From competitive tournaments to casual game nights, the esports scene is buzzing with opportunities.

Want to level up your leadership skills? Organize an event. Looking to sharpen your communication skills? Help your team execute a flawless strategy. Every game, every event, is another chance to gain experience that goes beyond the screen. In our student world, the loot is real: networking, career-building and a resume that’s as stacked as your inventory.

Safe zone: you belong here

A player aiming from a building window at an explosion in the distance, with a mini-map displaying a red danger zone. — *Via GIPHY*

No matter your level, background or playstyle, you’ve got a place in the squad. Whether you’re a seasoned competitor with years of experience or someone just picking up a controller for the first time, you’ll find that this team isn’t just about winning matches—it’s about creating a community where everyone belongs.

Gaming can be competitive, sure, but here, it’s also about support, camaraderie and growth. It’s a safe zone where you don’t have to worry about being judged for your skills, your playstyle or even your choice of main. Maybe you’re the kind of player who thrives on strategy and teamwork, calling out enemy positions and setting up plays. Or perhaps you’re just here for the thrill of the game, learning as you go. No matter how you play, one thing’s for sure: you won’t be going at it alone.

On campus, everyone’s a teammate. We celebrate victories together, we learn from our losses and most importantly, we build each other up. The best players weren’t born overnight—they grew through experience, guidance and the support of a team that had their backs. And that’s what this squad is all about.

So, even if you’re fragging with the best or still figuring out the mechanics, know this: you’re always welcome. It’s not about having the highest rank or the fastest reflexes—it’s about being part of something bigger than yourself. Because at the end of the day, the real victory isn’t just about the leaderboard—it’s about finding a place where you truly belong.

Final circle: it’s more than just winning

Two frog-costumed characters in police outfits dance in a colorful outdoor setting in PUBG Mobile, with 'DANCE PARTY!'. — *Via GIPHY*

Getting to the final circle and securing that coveted chicken dinner is an incredible feeling—the adrenaline rush, the strategic plays and the final showdown that ends in victory. But here on campus, we know that the real win isn’t just about the scoreboard or the stats; it’s about something much bigger.

It’s about the journey, the friendships you forge, the skills you sharpen and the teamwork that turns a group of individuals into a well-oiled squad. It’s the late-night gaming sessions where strategies are tested, the moments of triumph when you pull off a clutch play and even the times when you lose but learn something valuable. Every match, every battle, every challenge faced together strengthens the bonds between teammates, building a community where everyone belongs.

Esports isn’t just a game—it’s a community. It’s changing the way we play, connect and grow, both in-game and in real life. Whether you’re here to compete, improve or simply be part of something exciting, the Humber esports scene is the family you need. One that welcomes every playstyle, every background, and every level of experience.

Make sure you check out the Humber College Esports Club or the Video Game Club to meet new people who share your passions!

While securing the dub is always a great feeling, the true victory lies in the friendships built, the lessons learned and the journey taken together. Because at the end of the day, it’s not just about winning—it’s about how we play, who we play with and the moments that make the game unforgettable.

Feature image courtesy of Axville via Unsplash.

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