Welcome to the High Score Esports College Players Interview Series!
Each week, we’ll be talking with, as the name may have tipped you off to, collegiate esports players. We’re starting off with the players of Aquinas College, and want to send a special thanks to Aquinas Esports Head Coach Adam Antor for giving us access to the teams.
Now let’s introduce you to Corey “CAD3” Grant, who plays Second Man for the Aquinas Rocket League team…
What first got you into games?
My brother got me into games. My first “competitive” game was NHL2k6 on the PlayStation 2. I was actually a casual gamer for quite a bit. I really only became competitive when Uncharted 3 was released. After that, I was really driven to become good at games, and that’s when I started putting in the hours.
What drew you to Rocket League?
My brother Denton is also credited for introducing me to Rocket League. After Rocket League was released, I was actually hesitant on buying the game for a year. After my brother talked to me saying I should buy it, and I instantly loved it. I think the major thing that drew me in was that it was a weird hybrid of soccer and hockey. I love the sport of hockey (Go Sharks!) and that resemblance definitely drew me in.
Do you prefer to play a more defensive style or an aggressive style? Why?
Honestly, it depends on what spot I’m needed in. I’ve played for a variety of different teams over the years. Some needed me to be the First Man, some needed me to be the Second Man. I can say that I fit that Second Man role well in our current Aquinas Rocket League roster. I think it’s safe to say that my playstyle for the team is aggressive in defensive areas, and more passive in the offensive zone. Sam usually goes for a lot of shots and is almost always the first one up on an offensive push. In that case, that usually leaves me to read the fifty that Sam produces. If all goes well, I pass it to Stocks and he scores. If Stocks misses, that usually puts me at last back, where I need to be somewhat aggressive while defending so it’s not a “free” goal.
What do you see as your team’s main advantage?
I think our team’s speed can be lethal if utilized correctly. I also think our passing plays can be extremely effective while on the pitch. We’ve built a team chemistry since the summer, and it’s showing.
Coming in as a Freshman and joining a new esports program, what excites you the most about Aquinas?
What excites me the most is the potential the program has. Year one of any program can be chaotic and exciting, which personally keeps me on my toes in terms of being ready. However, what I’m looking forward to is the future of the Rocket League team. If we’re already this successful in year one, imagine what we could be a few years down the road!
When you’re not practicing Rocket League or studying, what games do you play?
I really don’t play other games besides Rocket League as of now. However, when on school breaks I’ll usually buy a Triple-A single-player game and run through that. Competitive gaming is stressful and I like to play single-player MMR’s or RPG’s to relax after a competitive season.
If you want to get to know Corey better, follow him on Twitter and Instagram!
Find out more about the Aquinas College Esports teams here!
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