Abstract
OBJECTIVE: To identify the current challenges and barriers within the esports environment in the Central and East European countries and to explore the potential for collaboration between universities, particularly sports faculties, and the esports ecosystem. The research also aims to clarify the perceived roles of universities, including their research domains, within the context of esports. METHODS: The research is based on a qualitative approach. Semi-structured interviews were used in the qualitative research to analyze attitudes toward the esports issues. The interviews were conducted with 18 stakeholders, the recordings were transcribed verbatim, coded and analyzed using the MAXQDA Analytics Pro software. RESULTS: The analysis led to the following findings: Universities can collaborate with esports teams, players, and other stakeholders to research and analyze players' physical state and performance, offering courses and certifications for coaches and managers of esports teams, where they would learn gaming skills and player's health and physical preparation. Moreover, universities can facilitate interaction between esports teams and experts in the field of nutrition, sleep, etc., potentially leading to improved health and performance of players. Finally, universities can collaborate with esports associations to establish standards and licensing requirements for coaches, managers, and other professionals in the esports industry. CONCLUSION: The paper advocates collaboration between universities and esports organizations and encourages flexibility and innovation. Recommendations include establishing formalized training programs for players, coaches, managers and organizers, promoting esports within the university environment, fostering positive perceptions, and supporting university leagues.