Jono Edmonson (he/him), 19, is currently a freshman at Heartland Community College, majoring in Communications. Edmonson has hopes to eventually be a sports analyst or go into the commentary field. Edmonson is from Bloomington, Illinois, where he attended Normal West High School. He competed in NBA2K as a senior and won the state championship.

“Coach R., who was my high school coach is also my college coach now. I love it at Heartland so far. Teachers are helpful and supportive, as well as the athletic department. They’ve been a huge part of my success so far. Coach R. makes sure I get everything that I need to succeed,” said Edmonson.

Edmonson plays NBA2K and Madden 5. He said he practices daily and is constantly online, playing against the most competitors that he can. 

“My main strategy isn’t much of a strategy and more of a saying that I like to live by, “if you love it, it’s not work”; NBA 2K and Madden are something I love playing, as well as basketball and football themselves. So working out, and coaching for those sports isn’t work, it’s just something I love to do. Makes life easier when you get to do things as opposed to having to do things. I learned that from my old basketball coach, Coach Saunches, last year,” said Edmonson.

What do you plan to do after you finish your current program at school? 

“I’m going to learn how to best apply my skills in the workplace. I am working on my communication skills and understanding of the media. Hopefully, I will transfer to an HBCU and play in the HBCU esports league. Then I can try to finish out school and get a job within the league, or on a more pro level,” said Edmonson.

Edmonson expressed that his time on the Heartland esports team has been great so far. He also said that his teammates are very supportive of him.

“I think the only thing that bothers me is the stereotype that gamers aren’t actually doing anything; or that it’s easy, and that the average person doesn’t do esports. I think esports should gain a little respect. The average person couldn’t beat me in any of the games I play, nor can they beat other good esports players. We put a lot of work into what we love to do, and it should get the same recognition that other hard-working people get,” said Edmonson.

In the future, he wants to work for a major company doing commentary, and have at least one national title under his belt (if not more). 

“My advice to young gamers would just be to block out the noise. Don’t let others’ opinions keep you from competing in the games you love. Work at your craft, and go have fun,” said Edmonson.