Catching up with TJP from Rooster at Dreamhack

The Dreamhack Experience

"I've been a huge TJP fan since ANZ Champs," began the interview, to which TJP responded positively about his current Dreamhack experience: "It's another big LAN experience, the crowd, it's unbelievable." His journey from grinding Faceit to playing internationally underscores a significant evolution in his esports career.

Comparing Scenes: Europe vs. Australia

When asked about the differences between practicing in Europe compared to Australia, TJP noted, "Just the total quality of players. Over there, they’ve got heaps of pools of talent." He highlighted that in Australia, players often have to focus more on self-improvement due to a smaller talent pool.

It's another big LAN experience, the crowd, it's unbelievable

Rapid Improvement and Advice to Players

Reflecting on his rapid rise through the ranks, TJP emphasized the importance of disciplined practice: "You can play hours and hours of pugs, but if you're not using it wisely... you're just going to go backwards." He advises aspiring players to learn from top performers and focus intensely without wasting time on non-productive play.

First LAN Experiences and Impact on Career

Discussing his first LAN experiences, TJP recalled, "Playing at LAN was so different... I got fucked. I played so bad. I was caught off guard." Despite the rocky start, he views these early LANs as crucial stepping stones that prepared him for bigger stages.

Future of ANZ Counter-Strike

On improving the ANZ scene, TJP suggested focusing on enhancing league prestige to boost motivation among players: "There used to be such a higher stepping... if you won a NATS, well, you're a champion in Australia." He believes that reinstating the prestige of local competitions could reignite passion and motivation within the community.

There used to be such a higher stepping... if you won a NATS, well, you're a champion in Australia.

What the full interview over on our YouTube channel: