Huni says Clutch Gaming’s goal is the playoffs at Worlds 2019

Clutch Gaming has secured their spot at the 2019 World Championship through one of the most dramatic qualification runs in recent memory.

The unexpected contenders pushed Team SoloMid to the absolute limit in a five-game thriller, ultimately overcoming their established rivals to claim North America’s third seed position.

“This moment is absolutely surreal. We endured countless obstacles throughout this competitive split, and the emotional weight of this achievement is overwhelming,” declared Tanner “Damonte” Damonte in the post-match celebration.

The emotional intensity was palpable throughout the venue, with Damonte’s father visibly moved to tears while proudly wearing his son’s team jersey in the audience.

What makes this accomplishment particularly remarkable is Clutch Gaming’s transformation from occupying ninth place at the summer split’s commencement to becoming the region’s third-ranked squad. However, for star top laner Heo “Huni” Seung-hoon, third position represents merely the starting point rather than the ultimate destination.

How do you feel after defeating TSM today? 

Huni: Naturally, securing this victory feels incredible. The series demanded intense focus and competitive resilience. I take tremendous pride in demonstrating my capabilities under pressure and delivering strong performances when it mattered most. The next challenge involves proving our worth on the international competitive stage.

The reality of our Worlds qualification still feels somewhat unbelievable. We defied all expectations, and I’m genuinely proud of our entire organization – players, coaches, and support staff. Transforming this roster from bottom-tier placement to championship contenders represents an extraordinary achievement.

It looked like you guys were very emotional up there after the victory. What does going to Worlds mean to you? 

I’ve achieved a unique distinction as the inaugural competitor to qualify for Worlds representing three separate competitive regions. This accomplishment aligns perfectly with my professional aspirations. I consistently emphasized, “Imagine winning the LCS championship – how incredible would that achievement be?”

My initial Worlds appearance occurred with European organization Fnatic. Subsequently in 2017, I competed as part of SK Telecom T1’s legendary roster. These experiences demonstrate my adaptability as a professional player across different team environments and competitive systems.

You made it to Worlds in Korea, in Europe, and now you’re going representing North America. How does it feel to have done it with Clutch Gaming?

The upcoming international competition presents significant challenges. Our current form requires refinement before reaching peak performance levels. This marks my inaugural experience entering Worlds as a third-seeded team. Previous qualifications with higher seeding facilitated group stage advancement. As third seed representatives, progressing beyond the initial stage becomes considerably more demanding. Nevertheless, we remain committed to maximizing our potential and delivering competitive performances.

Cody Sun was on Kog’Maw, which he hasn’t pulled out in the summer before today. What was the strategy behind that pick? 

We selected Kog’Maw primarily to address our composition’s AP damage requirements. Cody Sun’s Kog’Maw consistently outperformed opponents in damage metrics during crucial team engagements. His capacity for hyper-carrying combined with personal confidence created optimal conditions for team-focused strategies.

When TSM took the first two games, what was going through your mind? 

From my perspective, I maintained strong individual performance throughout the initial matches. Our team mentality remained positive despite early setbacks. Following the first game’s outcome, even with experimental picks underperforming, we maintained composure. The mentality was simple – reset expectations and approach each game independently.

The challenge required securing three consecutive victories. Certainly not an insurmountable obstacle for determined competitors.

Clutch Gaming was counted out so many times this year, and you were considered underdogs at the start of the season. How were you able to remain motivated and keep improving?

Competing as underestimated contenders provides distinct strategic benefits. We operated completely free from external performance expectations. Defeat would simply confirm popular predictions, while strong performances generate tremendous excitement. Remarkably, even spectators wearing opposing team apparel began chanting our organization’s name. Hearing my name echoed throughout the arena was absolutely incredible. The audience clearly desired witnessing competitive upsets, having anticipated potential TSM dominance.

How did it feel to have the fans behind you like that?

The crowd support was genuinely overwhelming. Spectators continued vocal support even during our 0-2 deficit, maintaining enthusiasm across three additional matches. This fan engagement represents precisely why we compete on professional stages before live audiences. The energy derived from supporter encouragement significantly enhances our competitive performance.

What do you think was going wrong in the first two games?

We committed strategic errors regarding engagement timing. We initiated conflicts during disadvantageous situations. However, collective perception indicated TSM’s desperation escalating following the third match. We consciously recalled our earlier mistakes to inform subsequent decision-making.

The adjusted strategy involved patiently awaiting opponent mistakes. Their increasing desperation became apparent as the series progressed. By the fourth match, executing our game plan became noticeably more straightforward.

In the fifth and final game, when did you feel confident that you guys were going to take it? 

The decisive match remained highly competitive throughout. However, TSM’s performance quality noticeably declined compared to earlier games. Their competitive mentality… they exhibited signs of performance anxiety. Consecutive match losses create conditions where reverse sweeps become increasingly probable outcomes.

Following our crucial team fight victory securing baron control, excitement levels peaked. However, recognition remained that baron acquisition didn’t guarantee Worlds qualification. Continued focus and execution remained imperative.

How does it feel to be considered one of the best teams in North America? 

Demonstrating the inaccuracy of critics’ assessments provides immense satisfaction. We conclusively disproved negative predictions, which generates tremendous positive energy. Our attention now shifts toward forthcoming competitive challenges.

Third seed status fails to satisfy competitive ambitions. Advancing to quarterfinal stages represents the minimum acceptable achievement threshold.

Which region’s teams do you think will be the most difficult to face at Worlds? 

Current analysis remains incomplete. We must experience the competitive environment firsthand through dedicated preparation. The competitive landscape will reveal itself through practical experience.

We anticipate enjoying the competitive experience. Revisiting European competitive organizations would provide particular satisfaction. Continued self-validation remains a primary objective.

Are there any teams you’re excited to face on the Worlds stage? 

Competing against SK Telecom T1 within the same group presents intriguing possibilities. However, such matchups simultaneously introduce considerable competitive challenges.

Potential quarterfinal encounters against former teammates would generate tremendous excitement. The competitive intensity would reach extraordinary levels.

Even during today’s competition, facing Smoothie provided enjoyable competitive dynamics. While sympathizing with his outcome, competitive priorities naturally prevail!

How will the team be preparing for the World Championship?

Preparation strategies remain under development. We intend maintaining current operational approaches. I will continue focusing on carrying responsibilities throughout upcoming competitions.

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