A FORMER Melksham man who was a George Ward School student, has won the Esports Colour Caster of the Year Award, for his work as a commentator of Esports (electronic sports). Dan Gaskin received the award last week at this year’s top awards ceremony for competitive video gaming, held in Las Vegas.
Dan has been a professional Esports commentator and host for 10 years. He beat off opposition to be crowned the top colour caster, which is a commentator who provides supplementary information or comment, usually following a noteworthy moment in a game.
“I didn’t write a speech, didn’t think I would win,” said Dan. “There are far too many people to thank, those who got me into the industry and to my beautiful girlfriend, my family, my friends, thank you for letting a little boy live his dream and get to be on the stage and win an award for something he tried very hard at. This one is for my brother who passed away and I always wanted to do something to make him proud and now I feel like I have, so thank you.”
Dan’s brother, Leigh Gaskin, who was a keen sportsman and well-known in Melksham, died in 2014 at the age of 27 from a rare form of cancer.
Their mother, Lynn Gaskin, who lives in Melksham said that Dan’s career has taken him across the world. She said, “Dan commentated on FIFA, Halo and Apex games tournaments, both internationally and worldwide, including America, Canada, Japan and Europe.”
Dan added, “To be recognised as the esports colour commentator of the year on an international level is an honour, I never thought I’d achieve. I’m delighted as it’s something to make my family and friends proud. It all feels very surreal.”
The Esports Colour Caster of the Year award honours the colour caster who has provided some of the most memorable analysis and calls in games over the past 12 months.
In a statement on X, formerly Twitter, after he won the award, Dan said, “Holy smokes!!! Colour caster of the year! For the @PlayApexEsports & @HCS (Halo Esports) family and for my brother. I’m sorry for those I missed in my speech, too many people to thank. Really wasn’t expecting this. To all the other nominees, you’ve no idea how much you’ve inspired me.”
It’s amazing being able to commentate on the best games, leagues and players in the world alongside some of my best friends. Thank you to all those who make it possible.”