Friday, 11 Oct 2024

Overcoming Adversity: The Inspiring Journey of an Overwatch League Player

Boston Uprising’s Mikias Yohannes, also known as Snow, has had a remarkable journey in the world of competitive gaming. From humble beginnings to playing Overwatch professionally, his story is one of resilience, determination, and unwavering passion.

Finding Solace in Video Games

Yohannes discovered his love for competitive gaming in sixth grade, initially excelling in Starcraft II and later developing a fondness for Blizzard’s other popular titles, including World of WarCraft. However, his life took a tumultuous turn during his sophomore year of high school when his family faced financial hardships, resulting in Yohannes becoming homeless. Amidst the challenges, video games became a refuge for him.

“I was really looking for an escape from the struggles I was going through,” Yohannes shares. “Video games were a huge part of that escape. I would watch videos of StarCraft II strategies and immerse myself in the game. It distracted me from what was happening around me.”

A Dream Fulfilled: Overwatch Pro Gaming

When Blizzard announced Overwatch, Yohannes knew he had found his calling. The game embodied everything he loved, and he aspired to go pro. However, his financial situation prevented him from purchasing the game. It was a heartfelt gesture from a dear friend who gifted him Overwatch on his birthday that made his dream possible.

But Yohannes faced another obstacle – his PC’s poor performance. Playing at a mere 12 frames per second, he was limited to playing support heroes like Mercy and Lucio. Despite this setback, his determination did not waver.

A Turning Point

Yohannes found himself at a crossroads. Should he pursue a college education or make a leap into professional Overwatch? With an upgraded computer, he started making waves in the competitive scene, catching the attention of talent scouts. He was invited to join the Renegades, a team that would later become renowned in the Overwatch esports community.

However, Yohannes decided to take a different path. He enrolled in college to pursue a degree in computer science, focusing on game design. Unfortunately, his passion for Overwatch proved to be too strong, and he found himself increasingly skipping classes and exams. His dedication to the game led him to join Toronto Esports, and eventually, he landed a tryout with the prestigious Boston Uprising.

Achieving Greatness

Today, Yohannes plays for the Boston Uprising as Snow, showcasing his skills at an impressive 300 frames per second. His family’s financial situation has improved, bringing joy and stability to their lives. Yohannes is grateful for the unwavering support of his parents, who have been there for him every step of the way.