Books and Resources to Start Strong
Building a credible esports coaching business requires understanding both the gaming landscape and how to run a sustainable service. These resources will give you the frameworks to develop your coaching philosophy, market yourself effectively, and manage the business side without losing focus on player improvement.
The Coaching Habit by Michael Bungay Stanier
This book teaches you how to ask better questions instead of immediately giving advice—a critical skill for esports coaching. Most new coaches fall into the trap of telling players what to do rather than helping them discover solutions themselves. Stanier’s seven essential coaching questions will transform how you structure your sessions and help players develop independence and problem-solving skills.
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Good to Great by Jim Collins
While not esports-specific, this book teaches you how to build a business that lasts and stands out from competitors. You’ll learn how to identify what you can be best at (your coaching specialty), apply discipline to your operations, and think long-term rather than chasing quick money. These principles separate coaches who build real reputation from those who burn out.
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Traction by Gino Wickman
This book covers the systems and processes you need to run your coaching business smoothly as you grow—client onboarding, session planning, billing, communication templates, and tracking player progress. It prevents you from becoming overwhelmed when you go from coaching one or two players to managing a full schedule.
Peak Performance by Brad Stulberg and Steve Magness
This book bridges athletic coaching science and esports by covering mental resilience, focus, stress management, and recovery. You’ll understand how to help your players manage the psychological demands of competitive gaming, deal with tilt, and maintain consistency under pressure.
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Equipment You Need
Your coaching setup doesn’t require expensive hardware, but you do need reliable tools for communication, recording, and analysis. Most of these items are standard across esports coaching, and many you may already own.
Computer and Display Setup
- Desktop or laptop: You need a computer capable of running the games you coach and streaming/recording software simultaneously. A mid-range gaming laptop ($800–$1,200) or desktop ($900–$1,500) will handle most titles without lag.
- Second monitor: Coaching is much easier when you can view your player’s screen on one monitor and reference game stats, guides, or your own notes on another. A 24-inch 1080p monitor works fine.
- High-speed internet: Upload speed matters more than download speed. Aim for at least 5 Mbps upload for smooth screen sharing and recording sessions without lag.
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Audio and Communication
- Headset or headphones with microphone: You’ll be on voice calls with players for hours. A quality headset ($60–$150) prevents ear fatigue and ensures clear communication. Noise-canceling is helpful if you coach from a shared space.
- Microphone (optional): If you plan to record coaching sessions or create educational content, a dedicated USB microphone ($50–$120) captures clearer audio than a headset mic alone.
- Pop filter: If using a dedicated mic, a pop filter ($10–$20) reduces wind noise and plosives during recording.
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Screen Recording and Analysis
- Screen recording software: Tools like OBS Studio (free) or Camtasia ($100 one-time) let you record coaching sessions and gameplay for review and feedback. Most coaches rely on free options initially.
- Note-taking app or software: Obsidian, Notion, or OneNote help you organize player profiles, progress tracking, and coaching notes. This becomes critical as your client base grows.
Game-Specific Tools
- Game accounts on multiple servers: If you coach multiple games or regions, budget for active accounts on each. Most free-to-play games cost nothing, but some premium titles ($20–$60 per copy) or battle passes ($10–$20/season) may apply.
- Stat tracking websites and APIs: Most major esports titles have free stat-tracking sites (Tracker.gg, op.gg, warcraftlogs, etc.). Some advanced analytics tools charge $5–$15/month, but aren’t necessary to start.
Workspace Essentials
- Desk and chair: You’ll be sitting for 6–8 hours during coaching sessions. A quality chair ($200–$400) and sturdy desk ($150–$300) prevent back pain and make you more effective during long days.
- Lighting: Basic desk lamps or LED ring lights ($30–$80) improve visibility if you plan to record content or use video calls frequently.
- Webcam (optional): If you want to deliver video feedback or record your face during sessions, a 1080p webcam ($30–$80) is sufficient.
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What to Buy First vs Later
Start lean. You don’t need everything immediately, and over-investing in equipment before you have consistent clients wastes money. Prioritize based on what directly impacts your ability to deliver coaching sessions and attract clients.
- Month 1: A reliable computer (already owned or $800–$1,200), basic headset ($60–$100), internet speed test and upgrade if needed, and a note-taking app (often free).
- Month 2–3: Once you have your first few paying clients, invest in a second monitor ($150–$250) to improve your coaching efficiency and a quality chair if you don’t have one.
- Month 4+: After 3–6 months of consistent income, add a dedicated microphone for recording sessions, ring light for video content, or upgrades to your desk setup.
- 6+ months: Advanced analytics tools, video editing software, or a streaming setup for content creation only after proving your core coaching model works and generates revenue.
New vs Used Equipment
Buy new for items you’ll use every single day: your chair, headset, and primary monitor. These items wear out with heavy use, and comfort directly affects your performance as a coach. A bad chair or uncomfortable headset will drain your energy after 3–4 coaching sessions.
Consider used or refurbished for computers, secondary monitors, and peripherals. A refurbished gaming laptop from a reputable seller ($400–$700) works just as well as new for coaching purposes. Used monitors and desks are fine if they’re structurally sound. Avoid used headsets and chairs due to hygiene and wear concerns. Avoid used cables and power supplies—cheap power supplies are fire hazards. Always buy new power adapters, USB cables, and network equipment.
Where to Buy
- Amazon: Fast shipping, return policies, and price visibility make Amazon reliable for most items. Use the links above for specific products.
- Newegg and B&H Photo: Competitive pricing on computers, monitors, and tech peripherals, especially during sales. Good if you need bulk purchasing.
- Best Buy: In-person shopping if you want to test chairs, headsets, or monitors before buying. Price matching available.
- Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist: Used furniture and monitors at 40–60% of retail price. Inspect in person before purchasing.
- Local computer repair shops: Often sell refurbished laptops and computers with warranties. Building relationships here can also lead to quick tech support.
- Direct from manufacturers: Gaming peripheral companies (SteelSeries, Corsair, Razer) occasionally run sales on their websites or bundle deals.
- Game publishers: Buy game accounts or battle passes directly from Steam, Battle.net, League of Legends, or Valorant’s official stores to ensure security.