**Exploring the Journey of Michael Hassall: From Marketing Professional to Esports Enthusiast** Michael Hassall is a marketing professional who has turned his passion for esports into a successful career. He began his esports journey as a player in the early 2000s, but soon realized that he had a knack for marketing. He started working with esports teams and brands, and eventually founded his own esports marketing agency. In this interview, Hassall discusses his journey from marketing professional to esports enthusiast. He shares his insights on the esports industry, the challenges he faced, and the advice he has for others who want to break into the industry. **Q: What first drew you to esports?** A: I was first drawn to esports in the early 2000s when I was playing video games competitively. I quickly realized that I had a passion for the competitive aspect of gaming, and I wanted to be a part of the growing esports industry. **Q: What were some of the challenges you faced when you first started working in esports?** A: One of the biggest challenges I faced when I first started working in esports was the lack of awareness and understanding of the industry. Many people didn’t know what esports was, and they didn’t see it as a legitimate career path. I had to work hard to educate people about the industry and to show them its potential. **Q: What advice would you give to others who want to break into the esports industry?** A: My advice for others who want to break into the esports industry is to be passionate, be persistent, and be willing to learn. The esports industry is growing rapidly, and there are many opportunities for those who are willing to work hard. If you’re passionate about esports, and you’re willing to put in the effort, you can achieve great things. **Q: What are your thoughts on the future of esports?** A: I believe that the future of esports is bright. The industry is growing rapidly, and there is a growing audience for esports content. I believe that esports will continue to grow in popularity, and it will become a mainstream sport. **Michael Hassall is a marketing professional who has turned his passion for esports into a successful career. He is the founder of Hassall Marketing, an esports marketing agency.**