Webinar/Podcast
September 19, 2023
Ex-Overwatch League (OWL) player & Coach for the Houston Outlaws. Currently OWL analyst for Activision Blizzard
Join us for an informative webinar featuring a pro ex-Overwatch League player and coach for the Houston Outlaws esports team, and current OWL analyst for Activision-Blizzard.
Esports has rapidly grown in popularity in recent years and has become an integral part of many educational institutions. However, many students still have questions about how to pursue a career in esports.
In this webinar, Jake will share his experiences and expertise on how to pursue a career in esports, including career pathways outside of being a pro player, the roles of coaches and analysts, and how esports can be used as a tool for learning and personal growth. Don't miss this opportunity to learn from an expert and gain valuable insights into the world of academic esports!
Have you ever wondered how top-tier esports players turn their passion into a professional career? From casual gaming to competing on the world stage, the path to becoming a pro esports player is as thrilling as it is challenging.
In this webinar recap, we’ll explore the career of Jake Lyon, a notable figure in the Overwatch League. We’ll cover his early gaming experiences, transition to competitive gaming, and his various roles within the esports industry. By the end, you'll gain insights into what it takes to succeed in esports and discover the multitude of opportunities beyond playing professionally.
Jake Lyon's love for gaming began in his childhood, playing console games with his brother. From classics like Ratchet and Clank to first-person shooters such as Battlefield and Call of Duty, gaming was more than just a hobby; it was a passion. His early engagements paved the way for his competitive spirit.
It wasn't long before Jake transitioned from console to PC gaming, where he found his true calling in Team Fortress 2 (TF2). Unlike the casual gaming he'd known, TF2 introduced him to organized competition and leagues like UGC. Here, Jake honed his skills and developed a keen interest in competitive gaming.
Despite his growing involvement in gaming, Jake maintained a strong focus on his education. By balancing schoolwork with gaming, he struck a deal with his parents—keep the grades up and play as much as he wanted. This balance would later become crucial when he faced the demands of both college education and a budding esports career.
Jake's entry into professional esports began in earnest with amateur competitions. By forming a team named "Bird Noises," Jake and his friends started competing seriously. This phase was pivotal, as it allowed him to gain experience and exposure without the backing of sponsors or salaries.
The big break came when his team secured sponsorship from LG, transforming "Bird Noises" into the more professionally recognized LG Evil. This leap opened the door to the Overwatch League (OWL), where Jake's skills and dedication earned him a spot. Balancing college coursework with rigorous practice sessions, Jake exemplified the discipline needed to succeed in both academics and esports.
Throughout his ascent in esports, Jake was juggling a double major in economics and philosophy. Overwatch was released the summer after his freshman year, and by his sophomore year, he started considering a professional career in the game. The summer after his sophomore year was when he began competing seriously. In his junior year, Jake took a reduced course load with three courses per semester and decided to drop one of his majors, focusing solely on economics for its employability while still having a passion for philosophy. By the end of that year, he was able to join the Houston Outlaws, securing a professional contract. Jake's journey highlights the importance of balancing academic pursuits alongside an esports career, emphasizing continuing education until a full-time commitment is viable with a contract in hand.
Jake's role as a pro player included representing the United States in the 2017 Overwatch World Cup. This milestone solidified his reputation and showcased his capability to perform under pressure on a global stage. His performance at BlizzCon further cemented his status as a top-tier player.
Beyond playing, Jake explored other roles in esports. He transitioned to casting during the 2018 World Cup and found his calling in providing deep analysis and insight during live broadcasts. This period also saw him taking on coaching roles, where his in-depth knowledge of the game benefited upcoming players.
Jake's versatility in esports extended to being a desk analyst for the Overwatch League. Here, he provided nuanced opinions and strategic insights during live broadcasts, contributing to a fuller viewing experience. This role allowed Jake to leverage his competitive expertise and speech proficiency, making him a well-rounded esports professional.
The roles of caster and analyst, while similar, have distinct responsibilities. A caster narrates live gameplay, often split into play-by-play and color commentary. Analysts, however, provide deeper insights during breaks, exploring team strategies and player performances. Each role requires unique skills but shares the common goal of enhancing the viewer's experience.
Jake's preference for casting over playing professionally stemmed from the demanding lifestyle of a pro player. Casting offered a balanced life, allowing him to stay involved in the game he loves while maintaining personal freedom. This balance is crucial for long-term sustainability in an industry as intense as esports.
For those not destined for the professional playing field, there are still many roles available in the world of esports. From backend IT support and media production to tournament organizing and community management, the industry is ripe with opportunities. Each role plays a vital part in the ecosystem, ensuring the smooth functioning of esports events and broadcasts.
The world of esports is vast and dynamic, offering far more than just the thrill of competition. Jake Lyon's career trajectory—from casual gamer to pro player, caster, coach, and analyst—illustrates the diverse opportunities within this industry. For students, educators, and aspiring esports professionals, understanding these pathways can spark new interests and guide career decisions.
If you're an educator looking to take the next step to support your students' passions for gaming, consider joining the US Academic Esports League. We combine competitive league play with academic esports curriculum to help your students grow as players and build soft skills while discovering different avenues for career success in and around esports.
Jake is an experienced Overwatch player and analyst with a wealth of experience in the world of esports. As a former pro player for the Houston Outlaws and a current analyst for the Overwatch League, Jake's journey in the world of competitive gaming has left an indelible mark. As an analyst, Jake provides invaluable commentary, enriching the viewer experience and deepening their understanding of high-level play. Jake is an example of someone that’s turned their passion for gaming into high-paying career opportunities and will share his experience and advice for students looking to do the same.
