From his early fascination with computers and gaming, Nic Ung‘s journey in Esports evolved from a love of competitive Super Smash Bros. to a leadership role in the University of British Columbia’s Esports Association.
Ung grew up in Richmond, B.C. where he developed a passion for video games from a young age. Influenced by his father’s interest in gaming, he spent countless hours on computers playing games such as Minecraft and even built his first computer at the age of 13.
Ung had a typical high school experience but was drawn to the world of competitive video games, in particular Counter Strike: Global Offensive and Super Smash Bros. Melee. Through these two games, he discovered the world of Esports while his curiosity and technical ability naturally led him towards a degree in computer science, which he is completing at the University of British Columbia.
“I made a lot of friends. And so many people have the same interest and share it with me. And I thought it was amazing.”
Nic Ung
Ung’s interest in Esports then took off when he first watched the 2017 Atlanta Major for Counter Strike live and later participated in the Battle of BC 3, a Super Smash Bros. tournament organized by UBC Esports in 2019.
“When I went to Battle of BC 3, I felt like, ‘Wow, this is really cool,’” says Ung. “This is something that is local to me, and I can come and interact with, and experience that level of Esports in person, instead of just watching it online.”
The excitement he felt from Battle of BC 3 was a catalyst for his deep plunge into the Esports scene. It ignited a passion for competitive gaming that would shape his future and leadership role within the gaming community.
Board’s Boards
During the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic, Ung launched his own company, Board’s Boards, a controller modification service. He recognized a unique opportunity to provide accessible modifications for gaming controllers, particularly for Super Smash Bros. Melee players.
“All these little vendors online that were making these mods, but so many of them are based in the U.S., and I didn’t want to pay like $20 for shipping for a $10 mod,” explains Ung. “So I was looking into how to do it myself. And I found it was really cheap and easy.”
This venture not only allowed Ung to apply his technical skills, but it also catered to the gaming community’s needs, fostering a sense of fairness and helping create an even playing field in competitive gaming.
“I think it’s unfair that the barrier is getting lucky with the controller quality and not your own skill. I am helping mitigate that,” he says.
Becoming a leader in the community
Post-pandemic, Ung volunteered to help run the UBC Esports Association‘s events and found a huge community of like-minded individuals and camaraderie.
“When I joined the club, initially, I looked to see what it’s like to try running it. Try helping out instead of participating and watching,” says Ung. “I really enjoyed it. I made a lot of friends. And so many people have the same interest and share it with me. I thought it was amazing.”
As his time in university progressed, Ung’s role in the club evolved into a leadership position within the UBC Esports Association, where he now serves as the club’s co-president. Through his tenure, Ung has dedicated himself to fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment for gamers of all backgrounds.
“It makes me really happy when people just come into the lounge, and they end up sticking around just to chat and hang out with the other people there. And that’s just the kind of thing I’m trying to foster.”
Reflecting on the club’s evolution, Rosaline Leung, an advisor for the club, acknowledges Ung’s profound commitment to fostering connections. “I think for him, it’s definitely related to community. I think that’s pretty important to him.”
Leung, who was previously the president of the Esports Association at UBC, highlights Ung’s transformative impact. “Yeah, he’s definitely a character. I really like the energy that he brings to the club.”
Ung’s journey from gaming enthusiast to Esports student leader is fuelled by his passion and dedication. Every step taken has led him here, and he embraces his role with joy and enthusiasm. It’s a meaningful an early chapter in his life that he will cherish and carry with him.