Following FaZe Clan’s advancement to the grand finals at the PGL Copenhagen Major, we had the opportunity to interview Connor “Scrawny” Girvan about his experience casting the first ever CS2 Major.
Credit: @ScrawnyCG on X
Bruno Sobieraj: This being the first ever CS2 Major, how do you feel about the event compared to other Majors?
Scrawny:
From my perspective, this Major has been excellently organized by PGL. The level of grandeur they have brought to the event, from accommodations to the actual venue, including the impressive stage and crowd size, is truly commendable.
This time, PGL has truly outdone themselves with seamless technical execution and overall presentation. Each Major has its unique charm, but I believe the playoffs and bracket setup of this Major set it apart from the rest.
Bruno Sobieraj: Since the BLAST Premier Fall Finals are also held in the Royal Arena, and you’ve casted both events, how has your experience differed between the two?
Scrawny:
There is a noticeable difference in the international diversity of the audience at Majors, celebrating global Counter-Strike talent. While the Royal Arena and Blast events hold a special place in my heart, I must admit that PGL has raised the bar significantly in terms of scale and production. This expansion was necessary given the familiar setting, and PGL has certainly risen to the occasion.
When revisiting the same venue and hotel choice as previous events, a broader scale was expected. PGL successfully met those expectations, delivering a memorable experience for all attendees.
Bruno Sobieraj: Reflecting on a recent on-air mishap during a cast, how do you manage such moments?
Scrawny:
Mistakes are inevitable in our line of work. As a caster, it’s essential to acknowledge and move on from errors swiftly. One must accept that imperfection is part of the process and focus on the task at hand. While incidents like misidentifications happen, it’s crucial to maintain composure and learn from the experience.
Collaborating with Launders involves quick exchanges and seamless transitions. Effective communication and mutual understanding are vital in such scenarios. Despite occasional missteps, I refuse to let one mishap define my career trajectory.
Bruno Sobieraj: Looking ahead to the remaining matches, what are your predictions?
Scrawny: My forecast involves Alekisb continuing his trend of triumphing over former teammates. I foresee FaZe and NaVi facing off in the grand finals, with Karrigan leading FaZe to victory. As for the MVP, I believe Broky or possibly frozen could make a significant impact.
Potential MVP Candidate:
Scrawny: Personally, I’m rooting for frozen to shine amidst the challenges following Twistzz’s departure. His talent and determination make him a standout candidate for MVP.
Bruno Sobieraj: With unexpected results impacting fantasy teams and pick’em selections, how do you reflect on being recognized as one of the top talents in the industry?
Scrawny: The acknowledgment as a top talent is a privilege and a testament to the collaborative effort of the broadcast community. While players receive accolades, it’s essential to highlight the diverse roles contributing to the success of broadcasts. Being among the top three talents of the year is an honor, representing a collective effort within the industry.
Scrawny: Celebrating talent across various roles can be challenging, but recognizing individual achievements helps convey the collective excellence within the field. I’m content with the acknowledgment and grateful for the opportunity to represent broadcast talent in the community.
Dream Major Location:
Scrawny: Montreal holds a special place in my heart as a potential dream Major location. While the city’s scene may not match the scale required, any Canadian venue would offer a unique atmosphere for players and fans alike. Alternatively, Lisbon stands out as a deserving location for its enthusiastic crowd and international appeal. North America, particularly Canada, remains a region eager for a Major event, showcasing the continued growth and passion for esports in the region.
