Former Overwatch pro and coach Dennis “INTERNETHULK” Hawelka has recently passed away at the age of 30. The German has a history of competing in various esports including League Of Legends and most notably Overwatch.
Despite his old age for an esports athlete, Hulk struck big in the hero shooter. He was instrumental at forming IDDQD, the core team that later signed to Team EnVyUs and which now becomes the Overwatch League team Dallas Fuel. He was also the key person who brought in Mickie, one of the players from the very inspiring Thailand team in 2016. EnVyUs took crown for the OGN Overwatch Apex in Season 1 and also at Major League Gaming Vegas after the pick. He was also a decent tank player too before he transitioned into coaching duties.
His passing has certainly been mourned by the Overwatch community. Blizzard also understands, displaying a tribute message within the game to our fallen hero for all players to see.
But it does not end there. Blizzard has announced The Dennis Hawelka Award for the Overwatch League. The award will go to “the player that we (Blizzard) deem to have had the most positive impact on the community” for each season of the Overwatch League.
“To the esports world, Dennis was more than just an accomplished player and coach – he was a friend, a confidant, someone people looked towards for guidance and support,” the statement from Blizzard reads. “He reached out to those around him, drew them in and built them up. In doing so, he not only helped forge the foundation of competitive Overwatch worldwide, he changed countless lives for the better, in game and out.”