NextStrat Esports Lounge

Welcome to NextStrat!

The City, through its Community Services Department, has partnered with Enorth Media to launch NextStrat, a youth esports gaming lounge designed to inspire connection, learning, and play.

NextStrat offers a safe, supportive space for youth ages 7–17* to come together after school and connect through gaming. The lounge blends structured gaming with real-world learning, helping users build technical skills, form positive relationships, and explore careers in esports, gaming, and technology.

Through play, education, and community, NextStrat aims to empower youth, build skills, and create brighter futures both in-game and beyond.

NextStrat lounge offers 15 computer stations and a gaming console space, as well as an area to socialize and do homework. Registration is required for the computer stations only. Whether you want to be an active player or just cheer on your friends, all are welcome!

 

*Players under 12 years of age must be supervised by a parent, caregiver, or older sibling who is 16 years of age and older.

 

Getting Started: Create a Free Account (Required)

To access the computer stations, all users must first create an account. Each user must have a unique account with their own email address and password.

Here's how to get started:

Click the graphic below to create an account and get started!

Member Login

If you're logging in for the first time, click "Not a Member Yet? Create an Account" and follow the prompts. You can also create an account through Facebook.

Heads up! Be sure to book in the correct time zone (EST), as the wrong time zone can cause booking issues.

Need help? Call 519-271-0250 extension 249. We can help you create an account over the phone.

Sign up for a Free NextStrat Membership (Required)

To visit NextStrat for the first time, a free membership is required.

For first time users, follow these steps to register for a free membership:

1. Log into your account.

2. Select user name.

3. Select "membership" at the top of the page.

4. Select "NextStrat membership".

5. Click "Buy Membership" (it is free).

6. Complete the questionnaire.

7. Review and sign the participation agreement.

Reserve a Computer Station (Required)

To participate, pre-registration is required. Click below to reserve your station.

Click HERE to register for a computer station.

Computer stations are reserved on a first-come first-served basis.

  • Computer stations are available to reserve online, a maximum of 72 hours in advance.
  • If there are no spots on the online availability calendar, then there are no stations available for reservation.
  • Computer stations may be reserved in 1 hour blocks, up to 3 hours.
  • NextStrat may cancel and/or modify a reservation as needed. The user will be provided with as much advance notice as possible.
  • Any user who doesn't follow the policies may have future reservation requests denied.

Hours and Location

Location: Stratford Agriplex (357 McCarthy Rd.) Community Hall (upstairs)

Ages: 7-17. Players under 12 years of age must be supervised by a parent, caregiver, or older sibling who is 16 years of age and older.

Hours of Operation: Monday - Friday: 3:30 PM - 8:30 PM

Stay tuned for weekend hours!

Please note that these hours are subject to change based on availability.

Website and Instagram

For the latest NextStrat updates, visit www.nextstrat.ca and follow along on Instagram @NextStrat_

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