Tell me what you do at Goliath Gaming.
My main tasks include:
- Player management: I ensure our players have practised and are well prepared for tournaments, and that they have the correct support, tools and platform to excel. I also attend live tournaments our players compete in (locally and internationally).
- Day-to-day operations: I manage Goliath Gaming sponsorship deliverables and brand partnerships, and identify and engage with new brands that we can introduce into the gaming and e-sports scene through activations, projects or partnerships.
- Player development: I make sure our players are on track to achieve their goals.
- Scouting: I research different gaming titles and the players within that scene, so that when we decide to sign players from different titles, we have the best representing the Goliath Gaming banner.
In terms of scouting, where do you find new players?
When looking for new players, the process differs for the different gaming titles. When scouting for Fifa players, for example, we would look at the players from SA who are doing well in the international Fifa Ultimate Team weekend league, as well as in local tournaments. Regarding preparations for tournaments, one week before all major tournaments we host a boot camp for our players. The main aim is to allow our players to focus only on the upcoming tournament and to be as prepared as possible.
Our boot camps allow players to practise their games and we have also implemented a physical element where the players go for a run in the morning; then we have a team breakfast; a weight circuit and a fitness session; some meditation and also a yoga session. Everything is done together as a team.
What is Video Game Day?
Video Game Day, held on September 12, is a day of celebration and awareness about gaming as well as the possible career paths within gaming. People commemorate Video Game Day in their own way — some play a few online games with friends; some will cosplay and dress up as their favourite characters (from a game or a comic book); others will create educational gaming-related content for their followers, the list goes on.
How did you get involved in the video game world?
I used to be a semi-professional soccer player until I injured my ankle. On the day of the injury, I was at a friend’s house (this friend is my business partner and fellow co-founder of Goliath Gaming, Ashton Muller), resting my leg. While immobile, I watched him play a game called Counter-Strike and was instantly hooked. Shortly after I went and got my own computer to join in the fun, and thus began my career in the world of gaming.
Many people must say that you don't really work — just play games. How do you respond to these comments?
I can honestly understand the common misconception that gamers just sit around and play games all day, but there is much more to competitive gaming than that. For each gaming title there are so many different strategies that come into play. There is the mentality aspect, which is a huge part of gaming. Players put in a lot of time, effort and commitment. Sacrifices are made.
The players’ adrenaline pumps during close and intense games, as do the supporters and fans of the gamers cheering them on — live gaming events have an electric atmosphere where a crowd is cheering on. Being in good physical health, eating healthily, getting quality sleep and maintaining good mental health are all key aspects to succeeding as a competitive gamer.
Competitive gamers have aspirations, goals and dreams they are working towards — just as players in traditional sports do.
What big work mistake taught you an important lesson?
Missing the deadline for an important task. This mistake allowed me to identify issues with and work on my time-management skills and self-discipline. Having discipline and managing your time is something important no matter the career path one finds oneself in.
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