Despite the main focus of the Closed Beta being the eternal struggle between Europe and North America (even though we all know the Koreans will take over the world any day now), there have been increasing reports of thunder coming from down under.
Just last week Alpha Sydney announced their Overwatch roster and today Jayden Perry has a great write up on "The Rise of Australia's Overwatch Esports Scene" on Redbull.
Winter is coming in the southern hemisphere, but Chiefs are ready to brave the conditions with their announcement today that #1 ANZ outfit from the Beta, Vandelay Industries will now be marching under their banner.
Readers might be aware that Karl "snowblind" Chapman, Bradley "aporia" Philpott and Jake "termo" Hickman each played a part in the Team Immunity dynasty that ruled the Australian Team Fortress 2 scene for years and finished 4th in world championships at Insomnia 52.
In the Redbull article The Chiefs' Overwatch coach, Blake "ZeRoR" Mitchell considers the implications:
"The similarities between Overwatch and TF2 are somewhat overrated. In my opinion, what really equips us to do well in Overwatch is simply the experience of playing games at such a high level and understanding what lengths need to be taken to be the best."
With other players bring their competitive heritage from Counter-Strike and Gears of War, a strong foundation of teamwork, dedication and a drive for excellence has already been established from which they can fly the flag for STRAYA in Overwatch.
Speaking in the Cheifs press release team captain "Ory" certainly has aspirations beyond Oceania:
"We're really excited for the opportunity to be partnering with such a prestigious organisation as the Chiefs. We're confident with their support we can achieve our goal of being the best team in Australia and beyond."
Chiefs Overwatch are:
- Karl "snowblind" Chapman
- Jackson "HeyKatie" Taylor
- Daniel "Dorky" Stevens
- Jake "termo" Hickman
- Bradley "aporia" Philpott
- "ory"
- Blake "ZeRoR" Mitchell (Coach)
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