As we bide our time during the break leading into the Overwatch League playoffs, I think it’s high time we talk about something that is a bit somber, but is very important nonetheless.

With all the talk of MVP’s and outstanding rookies, there is one award that has not been mentioned since its inception. On November 15th 2017, Blizzard announced The Dennis Hawelka Award, to be awarded to the player that had the most positive impact on the community in celebration of the late professional Overwatch pioneer, Dennis "INTERNETHULK" Hawelka. The award will be handed out at the end of each Overwatch League season and with the climax of the first season quickly approaching is appropriate to look at some early candidates for the inaugural award.  

babybay

The San Fransisco Shock bring a ton of energy to the stage, but Andrej "babybay" Francisty is a character in his own class. Known for is hitscan DPS, babybay also brings a lot of vocal energy and a little bit of swagger to the Shock. However, it would be one instagram photo that would set the Overwatch community ablaze. Coined the “babybay challenge” it goated the likes of Overwatch League commissioner Nate Nanzer and even commentator Christopher "MonteCristo" Mykles into striking the pose.   Each photo posted would add to a donation fund backed by the San Fransisco Shock. At the end of the challenge, the Shock donated $10,000 to the San Francisco chapter of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), a non-profit organization whose mission statement is to support, educate and offer advice and support for those with mental illnesses, as well as their families.  

Muma

Austin "Muma" Wilmot is a man of many hats. He is a former professional Team Fortress 2 player, he is the man tank for the Houston Outlaws and he also just happens to be one of the only openly LGBT players in the Overwatch League. While he has stated that he just wants to be known for playing games, I think he still acts as a wonderful representative for LGBT esports professionals and hopefuls. Keen on leaving a positive mark on the community, Muma balances his professional career with his personal stream where he tries to keep a positive disposition and cheerful attitude. Everyone should have someone to look up to, and for some people, Muma might be that person. With the amount of social media interactions he receives on a daily basis, it’s hard to argue that someone somewhere looks up to the Houston all star. And that is, at its heart, incredibly positive.

 

Geguri

After once being accused of hacking, Kim "Geguri" Se-yeon has come out the other end of the debacle well respected. Specializing in Zarya at the time, Geguri quickly gained a lot of attention with her absurdly high win rate on the competitive ladder. After streaming with a hand camera, she quickly quelled the accusers and went on to become the first female Overwatch player to be signed to an Overwatch APEX team as well as an Overwatch League team. While her first season with the Shanghai Dragons did not find any success, she still had her moments in the sun. Geguri is a competitor first and foremost, but that doesn’t mean she isn’t a fan favorite and a role model for dozens of people.  

Mickie

When you think of positivity in Overwatch, how can you not think of the Dallas Fuel’s bubbly flex tank, Pongphop "Mickie" Rattanasangchod? Mickie has been incredibly open with what kind of image he aims to bring while on camera. In an interview with Yahoo Esports during MLG Vegas 2016, he mentions that “... I want people [who are] watching me, [to] be happy. That’s it. If you’re happy, that’s my target. It’s good!” What’s even more heartwarming is the very personal bond that Mickie and INTERNETHULK shared. During APEX Season 1, Team Envyus were in dire straights and needed an emergency substitute to continue competing. They shuffled around the roster and brough Mickie aboard on INTERNETHULK’s recommendation. The two had met during the Overwatch World Cup 2016 where they both represented their respective countries and Mickie left a lasting impression on INTERNETHULK with his positive attitude. Envyus would then win APEX Season 1 with Mickie and and be the first foreign team to win a tournament on South Korean soil. With Mickie’s wholesome attitude, playful antics, and special relationship to INTERNETHULK, he makes a great candidate for The Dennis Hawelka Award.

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Joseph “Volamel” Franco has followed esports since the MLG’s 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. Images courtesy of Blizzard Entertainment.