Two university esports students have launched a Pokemon club to address loneliness and improve mental health among their peers.
The program was initially created and aimed toward esports students at Barnsley College University Centre.
However, it has grown in popularity across the campus, bringing in students from various courses who share a love for Pokemon.
The Pokemon Club was spearheaded by Joshua Ward, who is a BA (Hons) Esports Education: Coaching, Health, and Wellbeing Top-Up student, together with another co-organiser.
Initially created to provide a welcoming space for esports students, it has grown significantly, offering a relaxed environment where students build friendships over Pokemon-related games and activities.
Why the Pokemon Club was created
Esports student Ward said that the inspiration for the club was “initially our love for Pokemon”.
Japanese media franchise Pokemon – which focuses on creatures that humans train and battle – has a huge community of fans across the globe.
Its popularity spans across games, trading cards, movies, television and more.
Ward said: “At the start of the club, our goals were to create a community and to help people come out of their shells. We chose something popular to catch the interest of those who not only enjoy Pokémon but also those who may want to start a new interest.
“The club feels like a close-knit community. I hope this club has helped people know that it’s okay to not be okay, and people should know that no matter their struggles, there are people who care.”
Liam Dickinson, a Sport HE Pathway Leader at the College, added: “The student-led Pokémon club has become a vibrant hub uniting individuals from various departments to socialise and engage in friendly competition.
“This initiative offered a much-needed respite from academic pressures, fostering a sense of community and enhancing student well-being.”
For more information on Barnsley College University Centre, visit their official website.
