Dennis Hawelka, better known as Internethulk, was a German esports player and coach who passed away on November 8, 2017, at the age of 30. He was a prominent figure in the Overwatch scene, having played for Team EnVyUs and Team Germany, and coached for Rogue and Team Liquid. He also had a successful career in other games, such as World of Warcraft, League of Legends, StarCraft 2, and Call of Duty. His death shocked and saddened the esports community, who paid tribute to his legacy and influence.
What was Internethulk’s cause of death?
According to his family, Internethulk’s cause of death was an enlarged heart, a condition that can lead to heart failure or cardiac arrest. The family revealed this information in a letter posted on Twitter on December 28, 2017, thanking the community for their support and condolences. They said that his heart must have enlarged for years, until it could no longer fulfill its task. They also said that he helped many people with his big heart, and that he will never be really gone.
The exact cause of his enlarged heart is unknown, but some possible factors include genetics, high blood pressure, infections, or drug abuse. Internethulk had reportedly suffered from tonsillitis before his death, which may have been a complication or a symptom of his heart condition. However, there is no definitive evidence to link his tonsillitis to his enlarged heart.
How did the esports community honor Internethulk?
Internethulk’s death was announced by Team Liquid owners Victor Goossens and Steve Arhancet via a statement on Twitter. They expressed their grief and admiration for him, and said that he was a pillar of the esports community. They also said that he was a great coach and mentor, who helped many players improve and grow.
Many esports personalities, organizations, and fans also shared their condolences and memories of Internethulk on social media. Some of his former teammates and friends, such as Taimou, HarryHook, Mickie, and Reinforce, posted heartfelt messages and videos, recalling their experiences and achievements with him. Many also praised his positive attitude, kindness, and passion for the game.
Blizzard, the developer of Overwatch, also paid tribute to Internethulk in several ways. They added an in-game memorial for him in the Blizzard World map, where a poster with his name and a heart can be seen. They also organized a friendly tournament in his honor, where some of his former teams and rivals competed for fun and charity. Moreover, they created the Overwatch League’s annual Dennis Hawelka Award, which is given to the player who has the most positive impact on the community.
Why was Internethulk important for the esports scene?
Internethulk was one of the pioneers and leaders of the Overwatch scene, having founded and played for team IDDQD, one of the first and most dominant teams in the game’s beta. He then joined Team EnVyUs, where he won several major tournaments, including the first season of Overwatch Apex, the premier Overwatch tournament series in South Korea. He also represented Team Germany in the 2016 and 2017 Overwatch World Cups, where he showcased his skills and versatility.
Internethulk was also a respected and influential coach, who helped many teams and players achieve their potential. He coached for Rogue, where he helped them reach the semifinals of Overwatch Apex season three. He then coached for Team Liquid, where he improved their performance and results. He also coached for Team Liquid’s League of Legends team, where he was set to become the head coach for the 2018 season.
Internethulk was more than just a player and a coach, he was also a friend and a mentor to many. He was known for his generosity, positivity, and humor, which made him a beloved figure in the esports community. He inspired and supported many aspiring and professional players, who looked up to him and learned from him. He also had a loyal and dedicated fan base, who admired and appreciated him.
Internethulk’s cause of death was a tragic and unexpected loss for the esports community, who will always remember him and his legacy. He was a legend, a hero, and a hulk, who left a lasting mark on the esports scene and the hearts of many.
