ONIC PH country manager Rafael Sanchez acknowledged what could be the most common concern among professional Esports players — their short lifespan.
Throughout the years, competitive Esports across major titles have proven that letting go of players is never a problem.
In fact, ONIC PH itself opted to let go of its grizzled veterans before Mobile Legends Professional League Philippines Season 10 to sign promising rookies.
It is exactly for that reason why ONIC PH is taking steps so that its players would be ready and well-equipped for the real world when they venture out of their boot camp.
“Coming from my background, what I want for my players is not just to grow as players, but as people. Definitely, what we instill into our program is more into holistic development,” Sanchez said.
“Whether it comes something as simple as being more mature and disciplined. The reality of Esports, the lifeline is not long. (Players) can be replaced anytime. The thing is you can’t always be an Esports player, but they can be a good person.”
Currently composed of Nowee “Ryota” Cabailo, Landher “Der” Gabriel, Stephen “Sensui” Castillo, Frince “Super Frince” Ramirez, Kenneth “Nets” Barro, Jefferdson “Kekedoot” Mogol and Ralph “Rapidoot” Adrales, ONIC PH overcame doubts and exceeded expectations when it booked a slot to the Season 10 Playoffs.
At one point, the rookie-laden squad even became the top seed in the regular season, defeating M3 World Championship titlist Blacklist International and Mobile Legends Southeast Asia Cup 2022 champion RSG PH along the way.
Sanchez said, ONIC PH had come to learn how to develop professional Esports players after many seasons in the local league.
