After a decisive win against Natus Vincere, we were able to sit down and have a chat with Håvard “rain” Nygaard, entry fragger for FaZe Clan. Here, he talks about the keys to his success with his team, and how he handles the pressures of playing at such a high level.
You are the longest standing member of FaZe Clan as we know it. How has the team dynamic changed over time and how has your role changed over time?
I think that the team itself changed the most when we got [Finn] karrigan [Anderson] to the team. Before karrigan, we went out in groups every time; I think we made playoffs one time since we joined FaZe. I think having him in the team and having what he adds to the environment helps a lot. Also changing to [Fabien] Kio [Fiey], [Aleski] allu [Jalli], and all the tweaks to the team were good in the start but we would have a lot of fights and arguments
So, the team cohesion definitely improved with karrigan?
karrigan is the main piece that changed everything.
What do you think of the ELEAGUE format versus just like a weekend tournament? Do you have a preference? pros and cons?
I prefer the Swiss system over any system right now. I feel we have more chances, you get to play more teams and show if you’re really worth it or not
With so many heavy hitters on your team right now, do you have pressure to shine? Do you feel you have to make your move and shoot your shot or else someone else will come and try and take it from you?
No, not at all. I feel like that’s why I’ve played last half season in Europe the best of my life because i have all these star players with me and relieves a lot of pressure from my shoulders. Because with previous teams i put more pressure on myself before. Knowing that I have Olof, Niko, and Ladislav behind me or in front of me or wherever they are; it’s a lot of pressure off my shoulders.
Do you feel like you work better with pressure on you or when you have a confidence that your team will back you up no matter what?
Usually when I play I don’t feel any pressure. I’m very calm when I play so I don’t know that much, but just having these teammates it helps a lot in how you play.
You’ve been around awhile. What do you think is a good way to achieve that kind of zen for someone considering becoming a professional and wants to get better at staying calm under pressure?
I don’t really have any secrets. I’m a calm guy in real life as well, i don’t do much or make much out of myself. Kind of stay in the background, and I think it’s the same in the game. I think how you play is kind of built around how you are out of the game as well. I think if you’re explosive or have a temper or stuff, I think you can be a lot more explosive in the game as well.