Female esports players are increasingly making their mark in the competitive gaming scene by achieving success in a range of games. However, it would be wrong to assume they are all the same away from the computer screen. Just like people in all walks of life, women gamers have varied lifestyles, hobbies and interests outside of their career. Some examples of female esports players and their lifestyles are:
Eefje “Sjokz” Depoortere
Sjokz is a League of Legends host and interviewer who has been involved in the esports scene since 2012. She has hosted many major events, such as the World Championship and the European Championship. She has a degree in history and journalism and enjoys traveling, reading and watching movies.
Tricia “megumixbear” Sugita
Megumixbear is a former Starcraft II player and is now the CEO of FlyQuest, an esports organization that competes in League of Legends, Rocket League and Valorant. She is also a philanthropist and has supported a range of causes, such as environmental sustainability, mental health awareness and womens’ empowerment.
Maria “Remilia” Creveling
Remilia is a League of Legends player and in 2015 became the first woman to qualify for the League Championship Series (LCS). She played for Renegades, but left the team due to personal issues and harassment. She later joined teams in Latin America and Europe. Sadly, Remilia passed away in 2019 after complications following surgery.
Jorien “Sheever” van der Heijden
Sheever is a Dota 2 host, commentator and interviewer and has been part of the esports community since 2012. She has covered many major events, such as the International and the Majors. Sheever was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2017, but continued to work as she underwent treatment. She is now cancer-free and still active in the esports scene.
Li “Liooon” Xiaomeng
Liooon is a Chinese Hearthstone player and was the first woman to win a BlizzCon Esports tournament. She is also a member of Team Victory Key, a Chinese esports organization. When she’s not gaming, Lioon enjoys reading books and watching movies. She also likes to travel and learn new things.
Siobhan “HaganeNoTema” Bielamowicz
HaganeNoTema is an Attack on Titan Tribute Game (AoTTG) and Super Smash Bros Ultimate player from Australia and a former professional Call of Duty player. She is also currently a member of Team Dignitas. When she’s not gaming, HaganeNoTema likes to draw and paint and she has a pet cat named Luna.
Conclusion
Women esports players have balanced their gaming careers with other aspects of their lives, such as education, work and health. They face many challenges, including harassment, lack of opportunity and lower pay. Despite this, by challenging stereotypes, competing in a CSGO match and winning tournaments, they have inspired many other women and girls to pursue their passion for gaming and esports.
