Unveiling eSports Opportunities through ZETA DIVISION Academy
On March 19, 2026, the much-anticipated launch event for the "ZETA DIVISION GAMING ACADEMY POWERED BY VANTAN" took place, marking a significant step forward in the education sector of the eSports industry. As part of this event, a special class aimed at students was conducted, featuring crow, a creator from ZETA DIVISION, alongside Daisuke Nishihara, CEO of GANYMEDE. Both individuals provided students with in-depth insights based on their experiences in the competitive eSports arena and business landscape.
The academy, operating under the vision of creating the most community-oriented school, aims to train the next generation of leaders in the eSports industry. VANTAN Corporation, responsible for the academy, pledges comprehensive support from student recruitment to school operations, fostering growth within the eSports sector.
About the Special Class
The event titled "ZETA DIVISION GAMING ACADEMY POWERED BY VANTAN" opened with crow and Daisuke Nishihara addressing students, discussing essential topics related to player careers, team management, and event organization in professional eSports.
Daisuke Nishihara began his talk by reflecting on the humble beginnings of ZETA DIVISION, recalling a time when the team trained in only an 18-tatami room. He highlighted the surge of global competition in Japan's eSports scene and the rapid development of the gaming community, emphasizing how the industry now stands at a new starting point. Despite its growth, he pointed out a critical gap in qualified business professionals capable of supporting this expansion and underscored the urgent need for specialized talent development.
Crow, once a top player, shared his journey and discussed the critical role of communication in team dynamics. Initially fixated on winning, he realized over time the importance of collaboration and teamwork. His experiences as a coach deepened his understanding of overseeing the bigger picture, illustrating that support from teammates and collective effort are vital in achieving success.
Engaging with Students: Career Perspectives in eSports
As the class transitioned to a Q&A session, students asked about crucial components for thriving in the eSports industry and what skills young individuals should develop now.
In response, Crow emphasized that excelling as a pro requires more than just individual skill; understanding how to build a fanbase and offer personal engagement is essential. He highlighted the significance of being relatable and self-disciplined, teaching students the importance of effective communication in competitive settings.
Meanwhile, Nishihara discussed the industry's dire shortage of specialized professionals in content creation. For instance, video editors need a profound grasp of gaming mechanics, the competitive scene, and player personas to produce impactful content. The demand for such expertise in the industry is exceedingly high, and they emphasized the importance of attaining these skills.
Both speakers imparted a powerful message to the aspiring students: staying committed and passionately pursuing what you love can drive you to overcome challenges in this competitive sector. They concluded their session with motivating encouragement, inspiring the next wave of eSports professionals to pursue their dreams relentlessly.
About VANTAN
Founded in 1965, VANTAN prioritizes practical education through current industry professionals, providing students with hands-on experiences such as long-term paid internships and collaborations with businesses. Operating campuses in Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya, and Fukuoka, the school trains talent across various creative fields, including fashion, graphic design, and eSports, having produced over 210,000 alumni. Their dedication to fostering skilled individuals sets the foundation for enduring growth in the eSports industry.