While most high school seniors eagerly await graduation, their resumes typically do not include a long-standing career. However, Jack Brown, a senior at Weddington High, defies the norm. At 13 years old, Jack embarked on a path many would consider unconventional—he became a professional video game player.

"I've been playing video games, like many kids, since I was about five. By the time I was nine or 10, I realized pro gaming was a thing. It piqued my interest," said Jack. "I have this memory of eating a steak while watching a video game championship and it stuck with me. When [the game] Fortnite rolled around, it exploded. I can't even explain how popular it was at the time."

Jack was initially attracted to Fortnite due to its immense popularity among his friends and the wider community. It is a fast-paced, team-based shooter game where players engage in battles against opponents using a variety of weapons and building structures for defense. The objective is to be the last player or team standing. Initially just a source of amusement, it eventually became something of greater significance for him.

"I started playing just like any other kid. It went from me being better than other kids in my class, to the best in our grade, to the best in our school, and then it got to a point where I was one of the best players in North Carolina," said Jack. "It transitioned from this fun afternoon thing to something bigger."

Fortnite offers a variety of online and offline tournaments and competitive events with significant prize money. These events attract skilled players worldwide, leading to intense competition and opportunities for up-and-coming professional gamers to gain recognition.

"I like to compare Fortnite to golf for people who might not understand how it works. There are different cuts you have to make. You have to shoot a specific score and be under that to keep playing in the following rounds," said Jack. "It can get cutthroat when you have 50,000 people participating to get down to 100."

In 2019, Jack's Fortnite journey took a major turn when he joined the Fortnite World Cup with around 35 million other participants competing in qualifiers over 10 weeks. The competition boasted an impressive $30 million prize pool spread across various events. Although he didn't win the top prize, his decent earnings fueled his motivation to keep competing. He gained valuable experience and improved by competing against some of the world's most skilled players.

"At the time, I thought I was on top of the world. Little did I know how much further it would take me."

Immersing himself in it, Jack found a fascinating mix of excitement, financial rewards and fun. It opened up lucrative opportunities, including sponsorships, endorsements and prize winnings, turning his hobby into a career. Beyond the financial aspect, camaraderie, friendships and a shared love of gaming added to the enjoyment.

"The traveling for gaming started later for me because of COVID shutting everything down. In 2022, I went to Denmark, Sweden, Atlanta, Dallas, San Diego, Boston and Raleigh in five months. Excluding Atlanta, everything was paid by either Fortnite, EPIC or different teams that sponsored me," said Jack. "The events included media days, where you get interviewed and take pictures. I felt like a rock star."

Jack had to make sacrifices, too. While his peers enjoyed their teenage years immersed in social activities, Jack spent countless hours in his room, honing his skills. Late nights and early mornings became the norm as he strived to perfect his craft. It demanded unwavering focus and determination. He said that it would not have been possible without his parents' support.

"I had a time where everything aligned. I had the perfect coach and teammates. I was top 10 and won seven tournaments. It was a run I don't know I'd be able to repeat," said Jack.

Jack was skilled at managing his time, ensuring that he kept up with his schoolwork while using every moment in class productively and efficiently. He attributes his success to the exceptional teaching at Weddington High, particularly his Advanced Placement Earth Environmental teacher Catherine McCloskey, and English teacher Brian Slattery, who have left a lasting impression on him.

"I am very social but in school, I had to be super locked in. I wouldn't talk to anyone, I'd be focused on the teacher and taking my notes. I'd do my homework before I even left the classroom. Anything I could do while I was here, I'd do. Sometimes even during lunch, because I had a big tournament and didn't want to worry about it."

While Jack's achievements in professional gaming are commendable, he has decided to put down his remote and pursue a different path. Jack has set his sights on Central Piedmont Community College with plans to transfer to the University of North Carolina Wilmington to study business.

Jack's decision to transition from professional gaming to business may surprise some but it aligns with his experiences. He is intrigued by contractual agreements and fascinated by the negotiation processes. The skills he developed throughout his gaming career, such as discipline, strategic thinking, and problem-solving, can be valuable assets in business.

"There was college recruitment for gaming and scholarships. Some strong programs had benefits similar to what athletes receive. It was cool to be recruited like that," said Jack. "I'm glad I walked away. I sat out my first tournament this month. It felt super strange and it was hard. It felt good to root for my buddies from the sidelines."

As Jack enters this new phase, he carries memories, lessons and achievements from his gaming career. While he may be leaving the gaming world behind, he remains grateful for the experiences and skills it has provided.

06/13/2023