Esports teams sweeps both season openers

Troy University’s Overwatch 2 Esports Team is off to a strong start with back-to-back wins in their spring season. 

The team, which won both games of their season opener last Monday, is looking forward to an exciting season.  

Bryce Hinnant, a junior computer science major from Frisco City, Alabama, and Damage Per Second (DPS) player for the Overwatch 2 team, shared how he felt after the wins. 

“It felt great, just being able to help the team out, to do what you’re supposed to do and be able to pull off a win,” Hinnant said. 

Team Captain and In-Game Leader Stephen Hicks, a senior math education major from Slocumb, Alabama, shared the reactions of the team after their second win. 

“I’m not going to lie, we screamed and we celebrated because we definitely should not have won that second game,” Hicks said. “With this, going into the rest of the season, we feel better.” 

Hicks also explained the importance of early-season wins. 

“[The wins are] a huge confidence booster,” Hicks said. “That momentum is 100%important just for team morale because you can get to a point in any sport where, if you’ve lost four straight games,everyone’s heads are down.” 

Hinnant shared a similar sentiment. 

“That first game, we were confident because they were a lower rank than us and that boost after the first win helped carry us into the second game,” Hinnant said.

“Confidence is what you need. [Momentum] is very important.” 

Coordinator of Competitive Sports and Troy Esports Coach Chas Cary shared how proud he is of the team and their success. 

“I have been extremely proud of the Esports team in general,” Cary said. “To see where we have come from, to where we are now is a world difference.  

“The growth, not only in the game, but in the room together, has been outstanding, and the players show much respect towards each other each day. They have come together as a team and are progressing forwards each and every day to make themselves better but also push each other to be the best they can be every day as well.” 

The Overwatch 2 team plays on Mondays at 6 p.m. Anyone interested in watching their matches can tune into their Twitch streams at twitch.tv/troyesports1.   

The players shared they are always looking for new members and shared some words of encouragement for those that may be interested. 

“We’re always looking to grow the scene,” Hicks said. “If you’re scared, don’t be. How are you ever going to know if you don’t reach out?” 

Hinnant agreed; he also said not to be nervous to reach out. 

“[Video games are] a really great way to connect with people, especially if you’re shy or nervous or don’t think you’re made to get out and be active,” Hinnant said. “Just don’t be shy to reach out.” 

Troy Esports also have a team for Valorant, which plays at 6 p.m. on Tuesdays. 

Anyone interested in joining the Troy esports team can email troycampusrec@troy.edu.