There is a shortlist of talented players that patiently await their call up to the Overwatch League and whether he sits on top of your list or somewhere towards the bottom, former DPS star of Team Gigantti,

Tuomo "Davin" Leppänen, is undeniable. Since 2017, Davin has consistently performed at the top of his class on a team that, historically, has produced some of the best European talent bar none. Once again his talents have seemingly been overlooked for the upcoming 2020 Overwatch League season set to begin this February. Now, with a nagging health concern, he looks at a new avenue to keep his competitive fire lit; coaching.

Davin spoke with Esports Heaven about his comments on his recent interest in pursuing coaching, Team Gigantti’s rumored buyouts, and the pressure of constantly being in the public eye as a standout talent outside of the Overwatch League.

I think winning the first season of Contenders with the original squad will always be the best memory.

I’m not fully sure of who was doing it but some people were spreading info that our buyouts were crazy while in reality, they were nothing special.

It does a little to be fair. It does bring some extra stress but at the same time, it’s nice to have a lot of people supporting you.

So basically at the moment, I am unable to play due to health reasons, so coaching is my only option to stay in the scene. I still have a lot of drive to compete as a player but I always thought I could make a good coach as it is something I’ve been doing more or less while playing at the same time. I do think I will return into playing later either in Overwatch or another title when I’m healthy enough to do it again unless I discover a new passion from coaching, which could happen.

I don’t think I have a piece of single standout advice, but being coached by Seita taught me a lot about the game.

I guess I would say that’s accurate, I think most people in my situation would have retired already.

It looks quite interesting, looks most beneficial for tier 3 as they will have more opportunities to climb the ranks.

It’s the first game that I actually took seriously and managed to become a professional at. The ultimate goal of the Overwatch League is what keeps people grinding.

Joseph “Volamel” Franco has followed esports since the MLGs of 2006. He started out primarily following Starcraft 2, Halo 3, and Super Smash Bros. Melee. He has transitioned from viewer to journalist and writes freelance primarily about Overwatch and League of Legends. If you would like to know more or follow his thoughts on esports you can follow him at @Volamel .