Esports: The Gears 5 San Diego Experience
Gears 5 December 2019 Tournament
The Gears 5 Esports San Diego Major was the first large scale open tournament of the competitive season. The 3-day event was open for everyone and had a total prize pool of $240,000! We had a chance to get with competitor Valkyriegow’s thoughts on the event, the same Valkyrie who won our 1v1 all ladies tournament!
How did it feel and what’s your advice to other ladies who want to participate in esports?
I felt a mix of emotions; I was really nervous, a little excited and anxious, but overall I felt determined. I really wanted to compete and I told myself all I had to do was have the courage to show up. As for other girls and women who want to compete professionally, my advice is to step out of your comfort zone, it’s the only way to push yourself to the next level. I was worried I wouldn’t be accepted, or that I would under perform but once you realize fear is just an illusion, you don’t have to hold anything back. All you can do is be yourself and do your best. It is okay to fail, but don’t be defeated by it. Keep going, keep pushing and keep improving. For anyone looking to break into ESports my advice would be just that; don’t give up, believe in yourself, and stay disciplined. The outcome will be greater than anything “scary” you could tell yourself if your mind.
What did you love most about competing?
The thing I love most about competing is the rush. I’m hyper competitive, and love playing against tough competition. Win or lose, you will always improve.
The world can do with having more girls and women in eSports! Have you competed or thought about gaming professionally? Let us know in the comments.