The Gamerhawks are soaring high in their first competition since forming their Apex team.
UT Martin’s esports team, Gamerhawks, has made it into the semi-finals of their first ever competition for Apex. The team was formed back in the fall and they have been practicing ever since. Competitions have been taking place on Fridays and the team practices before every competition and on Saturdays.
“I honestly expected it [competition] to be harder. The team really got through it and it surprised us when we found out that some of the teams have actual pro players,” the team’s manager, Cera Orlovich, said.
Gamerhawks play in the Octane Collegiate league, which brings together teams from the surrounding areas, such as UT Knoxville, Georgia Tech and Purdue to name a few schools.
Orlovich hopes that if the team continues to advance to the finals and championship, they could possibly work out scholarships with the university. She is also hoping to move up into AGLS, the overall pro competition. This is where the team could really show what they have to offer.
The team has faced some challenges, as two of the PCs in the gaming lounge have been taken to be repaired.
“One member is playing at home, and another is playing in his dorm, so it’s been a challenge,” Orlovich said.
The team themselves are excited. Orlovich mentioned that they have been congratulated each other, and getting this far on their first try has lifted their spirits. While she feels as though they have room for improvement, she is hopeful that they can continue to advance to make UT Martin proud.
If the team makes it to the championship, then they will get a cash prize of $1,500.
Gamerhawks play in the semi-finals on Sat. March 16.
