There is not one way to become happy and successful. This is exemplified by the Swede Lucas “Mendokusaii” Håkansson, who initially just wanted to take a one-year break from school – and now earns his living playing Overwatch.
Lucas Håkansson struggled with depression and anxiety early on; he often felt like he didn’t fit into the system. He was always missing, for example: the puzzle piece that could have given him drive and a goal.
This missing piece was probably video games for Lucas.
In the games he found the fulfillment and meaning he had been looking for. While he continued to struggle in his academic career, he thrived in the virtual worlds. Games like Counter-Strike made his life “bearable,” as Lucas “Mendokusaii” Håkansson told the US site Kotaku during the Overwatch League Media Day.
Father initially wanted to protect his son from gaming
It was to be expected that his father was initially not pleased. The father imposed house arrest to protect his son from the things he saw in video games: addiction and aggression potential.
But later, when Lucas showed serious commitment as a teenager and it became obvious that gaming was the only thing that could truly fulfill him, his father relented.
The father began to dive into the subject himself. His game of choice: Call of Duty. Lucas’ enthusiasm rubbed off on him, and in the end, the father played an important role in his son’s gaming career.
Father takes son completely out of school
For Lucas, the plans toward professionalization were rather lax. “Let’s see if I can make a name for myself during this year off from school,” he thought. In Sweden, such a year off is quite common.
But it was precisely his father who had other plans in the meantime.
“Focus on the game and pursue your dream. And if you fail, then you fail!”, the father promptly announced and took Lucas out of school so he could concentrate on his path. Together, they went all in.
Next stop: E-Sports professional
This led to daily training sessions of up to 18 hours, during which Lucas eventually moved from team to team and finally joined the Houston Outlaws. Luckily, his father’s dedication paid off: He cleaned Lucas’ room, provided food and drinks, and supported his son’s training.
At just 19 years old, Lucas has grown into a pro with his father’s help, now lives in Los Angeles, and tries to keep in close contact with his father despite the time difference. By the way, his father is now also an enthusiastic Overwatch player – and often yells at his teammates when things don’t go as planned.
Life does not always go as planned
Guddy says: Lucas was lucky to have a father who ultimately supported him unconditionally and still does. Earning money doing something that truly fulfills you is not something everyone can say.
Still, this should not be a plea to drop out of school immediately and game 18 hours a day! It takes a considerable amount of luck, perseverance, and skill – and stable support. But it’s an interesting journey that can inspire you to pursue your goals and have determination!
Which team in the Overwatch League do you actually cheer for?
