In this Category Laserleague interviews a player to learn more about his/her history, current status and future in the sports. Today we have Viper, a UK player who has been active since 1999.
Laser League: So, welcome, please tell us something about yourself and your history playing lasergames?
Hi! I’m Richard and I loved the game when I was in school aged 14. I wanted more, so I made it my first job aged 16. I have been playing ever since.
Laserleague: How did you come up with your players name?
I thought snakes were cool. I’ve always had this distant, scared admiration for snakes. They’re different to us. They have this evolutionary disadvantage with the lack of legs. Humans still hold them in high, terrifying regard. Incredible really. My name would have been COBRA, but he was a blonde, muscle-bound cockney idiot. VIPER it was.
Laserleague: What inspired you to play as fanatic as you did?
I am naturally competitive, and into sport. Winning is a good motivator. Maybe I’ll try it one day.
Laserleague: Could you tell us something about the tournaments you have played, in what teams did you play them and what were the results?
My first European tournaments were back in 1999. I’ve had fun in European Laserquest Championships (ELCs) and World Challenges (WCs) since. If you haven’t had fun in a WC, I can’t recommend it enough. George Michael could explain more if you were curious.
Laserleague: What was the most fun tournament you have played?
I love the specialist UK vs. NL tournaments where the UK players are up against the Dutch teams. It has a great balance between competitive tournament play in the arena and a strong social scene out of the arena.
Laserleague: What do you think makes the difference between a top player and the rest?
Desire. The best players have competitive instinct baked right in.
Laserleague: What will the future bring? For you and your team?
A lot more UK vs. NL tournaments, some AA, and we’re not sure what else but we are looking forward to finding out.
Laserleague: How do you balance LQ and the rest of your life? How much time do you spend on it now? And in your prime? Does your family know anything about your LQ life?
LQ was my first ever job, I loved that, whilst my friends were stacking shelves at the supermarket I was giving briefings, fixing packs, and being with my friends. It takes up much less of my time now, I play a tournament annually. My family know, and can’t quite believe it…
Laserleague: Anything else You want to say? 🙂
Just one thing. Play, and enjoy it. If you like it – play more. People don’t always understand LQ as a hobby or interest. It’s very important not to care.