In an exciting development for the Malaysian esports scene, the country’s first senior esports team, Team eMAS, has been officially formed. The team, comprising six Counter-Strike 2 (CS2) players all over the age of 50, was announced after a thorough selection process through the Boomers2Gamers competition organized by Goodday Charge.

The inauguration ceremony was graced by YB Hannah Yeoh, Minister for Youth and Sports, who officially launched the team amid cheers and the enthusiastic shout of “That’s my dad!” from a proud daughter in the audience. This milestone was also recognised by the Malaysian Book of Records after Team eMAS competed in four matches against the professional CS2 team, HXG.

From Boomers to Gamers

The Boomers2Gamers competition attracted 298 senior citizens vying for a spot in Team eMAS. The applicants were narrowed down to the top 10 contestants, who then underwent a rigorous three-week esports training program. This training focused on various aspects including skills, strategy, fitness, teamwork, and communication. Physical training and nutrition were also integral parts of their regimen, supported by Orange Esports Club, Predator Gaming, and Creative Labs. These sponsors provided a world-class gaming facility equipped with top-of-the-line Predator series gaming laptops and headsets.

The final six members of Team eMAS were selected by former professionals Mohd Syazwan ‘Wanr0‘ and Mohammed Reza ‘Rexa‘:

• Trish Lim – Team Leader
• Nahar Ludhfi – Entry Fragger
• Ahmad “Tom” Zamzuri – Second Entry Fragger
• Johan Arifin – Support
• John Yap – Support
• Linda Tee – Substitute

Insights from the Team Leader

In an interview with Cilisos, team leader Trish Lim, a 55-year-old licensed real estate agent and mother, shared her journey. Initially seeing the application callout on Facebook, she joined out of curiosity, not expecting the intense coaching and training regimen that followed. She was surprised by the game’s depth, requiring not only technical skills like reflexes and aim but also strategic thinking and outwitting opponents.

Trish also recounted her experience with in-game trolling: “In the beginning, we would die first, and other players would get upset and start shooting over our bodies. I thought, ‘Really? Is that necessary?’”

The Journey Continues

For those interested in following Team eMAS’s journey, Goodday Charge will be premiering a limited reality series on Astro Arena. Hosted by Malaysian caster Tash Bunny, with a special appearance by Sir Cloud, this series will be the first esports content to air on the sports-focused channel.

Goodday Charge is also supporting team HXG as they prepare to represent Malaysia at the Asian Esports Championship in Chengdu, with the goal of qualifying for the 2024 International Esports Federation World Cup in Riyadh.

Trish encourages seniors interested in esports with her favourite quote from a popular sporting brand: “Just Do It.” Meanwhile, Team eMAS is looking forward to exploring other games, with plans to try Valorant next.