Game On at the Y
Esports is organized, competitive video gaming where players and teams face off in popular titles — and at the YMCA of the Fox Cities, it’s more than just playing games. Through our Esports programs, youth and teens ages 8–18 develop the social, strategic, and problem-solving skills they need to grow into thriving adults, all in a safe, moderated, and welcoming environment. Leagues, tournaments, camps, and open play are available at our state-of-the-art Tech Lab at the Neenah-Menasha YMCA, powered by Plexus and featuring 20 top-of-the-line gaming stations.
The Tech Lab at Neenah-Menasha YMCA
Our state-of-the-art Tech Lab — powered by Plexus — features 20 gaming stations with top-of-the-line computers and everything players need for an immersive experience. Leagues, tournaments, and open play are all hosted right here.
Esports Open Play
The Tech Lab is open for drop-in play during the following hours:
- Monday–Thursday: 4:00–8:00 PM
- Friday: 4:00–7:00 PM
- Saturday: 9:00 AM–Noon
Open Play is an add-on to your YMCA of the Fox Cities membership. Rates grant unlimited monthly access based on availability:
- Individual — $8/month
- Family (2 or more) — $15/month
Weekly Leagues
All leagues are open to ages 8–18 and are held at the Neenah-Menasha YMCA Tech Lab. Mouse/keyboards and Xbox controllers are provided — players may bring their own controller if preferred.
- Fortnite League (PC) — Mondays 6:00–8:00 PM
- Let’s Play Esports (PC) — Tuesdays 6:00–8:00 PM
- Super Smash Bros. Ultimate (Switch) — Thursdays 6:00–8:00 PM.
- Note: participants must bring their own Nintendo Switch, copy of Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, charger, and joy-cons/controller.
- NBA 2K26 League (Xbox) — Saturdays 10:00 AM–Noon
Esports Camps
For youth ages 8–17, our Esports camps push participants to develop social, strategic, and problem-solving skills in a fun, engaging environment. Camp options include:
- Esports/Crunch Lab Experience
- Esports/Edge VR Experience
- Video Game Building 101
- Let’s Build Minecraft
- Esports Sampler
- Esports Gym & Swim
One-day and week-long formats are available throughout the summer.
For camp questions, contact Jensen Hinton at 920.886.2103 or gro.seiticxofacmy@notnihj, or Griffin Shimanek at 920.954.7606 or gro.seiticxofacmy@kenamihsg.
Tournaments & Events
We host regular tournaments and special events throughout the year for ages 8–18, including:
- Duos Fortnite Tournament (Saturdays, Noon–3:00 PM)
- Gamers Night Out (Fridays, 5:00–8:00 PM)
- Madden Tournament (Fridays, 5:00–7:00 PM)
- Minecraft Coding Class (Fridays, 6:00–8:00 PM)
Dates and registration are available through our program listing. All equipment is provided by the Y.
What Esports Builds
Esports at the Y is about more than gaming — it’s about growth. Here’s what every participant develops through our programs.
Teamwork
Competing as part of a team teaches communication, coordination, and the value of working together toward a common goal.
Leadership
League play and team-based formats develop the decision-making and accountability skills that define strong leaders.
Online Safety
Our programs take place in a safe, moderated environment where participants learn responsible online behavior and digital citizenship.
Strategic Thinking
Gaming requires analysis, adaptability, and quick thinking — skills that translate directly into academic and professional success.
Individual Growth
Whether it’s improving their rank, completing a build, or simply discovering a new passion, every player grows at the Y.
Questions? Contact the Esports Team
Our Esports staff are passionate gamers and youth development professionals who are here to help with anything — from league registration to camp questions. Reach out to Jensen Hinton, Sports & Recreation Director at the Neenah-Menasha YMCA, at 920.886.2103 or gro.seiticxofacmy@notnihj, or Griffin Shimanek, Sports & Recreation Coordinator, at 920.954.7606 or gro.seiticxofacmy@kenamihsg.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Tech Lab is located at the Neenah-Menasha YMCA. It features 20 top-of-the-line gaming stations powered by Plexus.
Leagues, camps, tournaments, and open play are open to ages 8–18. Some programs may have specific age ranges — check individual listings for details.
For most leagues and events, all equipment is provided by the Y. The Super Smash Bros. league requires participants to bring their own Nintendo Switch, game copy, charger, and controller. Players may also bring their own controller to any event.
Open Play is an add-on to your Y membership. Individual access is $8/month; family access (2 or more people) is $15/month. Pricing grants unlimited access based on availability during Open Play hours.
Register through the program listing on this page. For camp questions, contact Jensen Hinton at gro.seiticxofacmy@notnihj or Griffin Shimanek at gro.seiticxofacmy@kenamihsg.
The Tech Lab offers a full library of games. Leagues are organized around specific titles (Fortnite, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, NBA 2K26), and Let’s Play Esports sessions allow participants to choose from the full library.
