New Zealand-based FIFA 18 competitor Harry “Honey Badger” Blackmore chats with EA SPORTS about the his goal at the FIFA eWorld Cup Grand Final in London, signing for Team FUTWIZ and his desire to continue the success of players from outside of Europe at international tournaments.

• How do you feel your competitive season went? I feel my competitive season has gone extremely well. I’ve managed to get into the knockout stages of every tournament and have beaten some of the world’s best throughout. Qualifying for FEWC is a massive accomplishment in itself.
• What are your goals going into the FIFA eWorld Cup Grand Final? Of course I would like to win the whole event. My goals are just to play my game and not put too much pressure on myself. I feel I can go far in this competitive if I stick to my game plan and enjoy the experience.
• Who is the best player you have ever played against? I think this year Agge was the best player I have played against. He was fresh off his tournament win and had a lot of confidence going into the match. I played well in that game against one of the very best and a former world champion
• Which group stage matches are you looking forward to the most? I’m looking forward to playing Nicolas. He has showed why he is the very best throughout this year and I’m looking forward to the opportunity to play the favourite.
• You competed and got some positive results last year in the FIFA Ultimate Team Championship Series. Now you are having even more success. What is your key to maintaining consistency? I think consistency is down to practice. I’ve played a lot of games of FIFA and I constantly watch my [Champions Channel] games back. The little things in FIFA make a massive difference trying to correct them through watching your own game back is a major part to my consistency. I also remain relaxed in most situations I think that a clear and calm mind set goes along way.
• How has signing for FUTWIZ helped you improve your game? Joining FUTWIZ has been a major part of success this year in competition and outside of competition. FUTWIZ support allows be to spend a lot of time practising and their social media helps further my global brand. Our sponsors allow me to perform to the best [of] my ability. FUTWIZ Dan also plays a massive role at events. His support is second to none and helps grow FIFA eSports as a whole. Joining FUTWIZ was the best decision for not only my FIFA career but my personal life as well.
• You are one of the few representatives from the so-called “Rest of the World” region. How important is it for the global community for players outside of Europe to start earning success at the biggest stage? I think we have seen the other regions catch up with Europe this year especially. Nicolas and MsDossary have won major titles this year. Also, a lot of competitors from ROW ANZ like myself, Marcus Gomes and xMarkoHD have done extremely well in competitions this year. I think the ROW region has already started making waves in FIFA eSports and hopefully there is more success in the near future.

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