Gerard Sarante Balbuena, the Dominican Republic's representative in eFootball, said video games can become a source of income, stability and an opportunity for personal development.
In an interview with Diario Libre following his participation in the games, Sarante said esports go far beyond simply pressing buttons and are a reality in the international sports world that needs support and backing.
He called on parents to give more support to their children when they show interest in video games, saying that support also helps young people take the activity more seriously. He said that was his message, that parents give a little more support.
Small eFootball community
Sarante said the eFootball community is small in the Dominican Republic because most fans play FIFA instead. He said eFootball is his discipline, and that FIFA is a different, somewhat more fantastical game, while eFootball aims for a more realistic experience.
He said he hopes the tournament experience motivates more people to get involved, because events like this inspire people to learn more about video games and esports.
Pride in representing his country
Sarante said he feels happy and proud to be the first Dominican in history to represent the country in this kind of discipline at the Central American and Caribbean Games.
He added that this is something new for the country and that the first steps are being taken, which he considers positive. He said it is always a source of pride to represent the Dominican Republic in any discipline, and that eFootball is new territory for the country. He said he feels very happy to be there, that they are taking their first steps, and that what comes in the future will be even better.
