Reported By: Shaurya Sharma
Last Updated: September 25, 2023, 10:04 IST
esports as a career has become quite popular in recent times.
In this conversation with Team Falcons chairman, Mossad Al Dossary, we explore what goes behind preparing for major esports tournaments, and what esports athletes go through.
Esports, at large, has grown exponentially as a field—from being part of the Asian Games to warranting multi-million-dollar prize pools in events like Gamers8. However, while a career in it looks glamorous from the outside (which it is), it demands strict commitment from the players themselves. They follow strict schedules, have to stay away from family and friends for prolonged periods of time, and most importantly, follow a training routine—just like a sports athlete does.
So, to clear up some of the most common misconceptions about esports and what goes into performing at one’s best, we got in touch with Mossad ‘McDossary’ Al Dossary, the co-founder and Chairman of Falcons esports.
News18 Tech: So, tell us, what does an esports player go through while preparing for a major esports event like Gamers8 and the Asian Games?
People and fans usually have high expectations of esports players, so it’s not very easy for the players. However, it depends on the experience of every player, and the right people must be behind the players of the team—from managers to the coach and even the players’ circle itself.
News18 Tech: How many hours do these players put in? Let’s say, preparing for games like Rocket League or Fortnite.
Rocket League was the last game this year at Gamers8, and the Team Falcons spent weeks away from home. And, every day, practiced for five to six hours. So, the players go through a lot, and of course, they want to do more and more.
They practice for 5-6 hours, and sometimes it can’t even go beyond that. So yes, it takes a lot of effort on the players’ part to prepare for major tournaments.
News18 Tech: There is a common misconception that esports is not as physically demanding as traditional sports. Do you believe this to be untrue?
I think it’s untrue, and anyone who has been a part of the esports industry knows how it is.
News18Tech: With regards to India, what are your thoughts on the up-and-coming gaming and esports creators in the country?
I think we want a part of India in Team Falcons, and we want to see the opportunities that exist in the country, especially with the sheer number of people interested in esports and gaming. We certainly want to do more, and we are keen to help the budding talent that exists in the country.
