More than a game: Airman finds community and confidence through Esports

Official Statements

• 366th Fighter Wing, November 9: “MOUNTAIN HOME AIR FORCE BASE, Idaho — The countdown begins. With a controller in hand and teammates at his side, Airman 1st Class Dustin Stickler, 366th munitions squadron aircraft weapons system apprentice, locks in for another match of Rocket League at Travis Air Force Base, California. Around him, service members prepare to compete in an environment where communication, decision-making and performance under pressure can determine the outcome of every match.

  For Stickler, the competition represented more than a chance to execute his gaming skills. It provided an opportunity to prove that he could extend beyond the screen and reinforce the qualities Airmen rely on to remain ready for the mission.

  “Going to these competitions to represent is huge,” Stickler said. “It’s not me I’m representing, it’s the Air Force, so I have to hold myself to a higher standard.”

  Stickler never expected a hobby to take him to a military Esports Championship. Some competitors Stickler faced had accumulated more than 5,000 hours playing the game, while he estimated he had around 1,000. The difference in experience and mechanical skill could have been intimidating, but Stickler saw the competition as a chance to challenge himself and see how far he could push his abilities.

  Once the competition began, Stickler faced the reality of competing against highly experienced players. Every match became an opportunity to adapt, improve and respond with his teammates.

  The championship did not end with Stickler holding a trophy. But the final standings did not define what he gained from the experience.

  “I gained confidence, new connections to the other players, and a better understanding of what it takes to compete at a higher level,” Stickler said. “I also learned more about how to respond to urgency, how I coordinate with teammates, and how important it is to keep learning. Those lessons are valuable regardless of where I finished.”

  That mindset extends beyond a video game. For Stickler, the championship provided an opportunity to develop skills such as problem solving, adaptability, confidence and social connection, in a setting far removed from the flight line.

  His experience also challenged the idea of what it means to represent the Air Force.

  “I hope people realize that Airmen represent the Air Force in many different ways,” Stickler said. “Whether we’re maintaining aircraft, supporting operations, volunteering in our communities or competing in Esports, we all have opportunities to demonstrate professionalism, teamwork and excellence.”

  Stickler, an introvert who typically worked “in the back shop,” said he had limited opportunities to meet people outside his normal circle. A previous three-on-three competition in Mississippi showed him that the championship could offer a way to connect with people who shared his interests.

  The event introduced him to players he still plays with today, as well as service members from other branches. This gives him a sense of community, an environment that encourages teamwork and communication which he hadn't expected to find through a hobby.

  “I just wanted to experience the energy, meet the people and see what everything was like,” Stickler said before the championship. “Everyone was really excited. It was welcoming, very energetic and honestly, it was really amazing.”