North County Dublin teenager Nevan Corcoran is the presenter on Ireland's new gaming show Gamer Mode
"I think like for everyone else, this year has been a bit crazy. I was really excited when I got the job on Gamer Mode and then Covid-19 struck and we were put into lockdown.
"It wasn't so bad though. I had online school every day, so I was kept busy with that, but when sports training wasn't allowed I really missed it. I play GAA, Hurling and Rugby and missed the sessions and craic with my teammates. I got a basketball hoop at home and spent lots of time shooting hoops and bringing my dog for walks.
"I also spent many, many hours during lockdown doing what I called 'rehearsing' on my PS4 and Switch to make sure I was gamer battle-ready for when we started filming!
"It was also a good way of keeping in touch with my friends when we couldn’t see each other. I like playing sports games like FIFA and Madden NFL, as well as playing the old favourites, Super Mario, Super Smash Bros., Minecraft and Rocket League.
"Like everyone else, our family summer holiday was cancelled, so when lockdown restrictions were lifted we had a staycation. We got to see parts of Ireland that I’ve never been to before. I loved visiting Derry, seeing where Derry Girls was filmed and the mural of them in the city is really cool.
"Back home, I got out cycling with my friends, exploring our local area. I am lucky to live close enough to the beach and the weather was brilliant so we got to do lots of water sports during the summer.
"It was a strange summer not getting to Croke Park to see the Dubs play. My family are big Dublin GAA fans."
"I am glad that we have been able to stay in school in this second lockdown. It’s great to be able to see my friends every day. We weren’t long back at sports training when I got injured, so I was wearing a boot for most of the filming of Gamer Mode, but it was fine and I’m recovered now and back at training.
"Gamer Mode is my dream job! Being on set was great craic and I got to meet some fantastic people, including rapper Ste Brown, TikTok star Bonnie Rose and the creator of Doom and Tomb Raider, the legendary John Romero. I can’t wait for you all to see it!"
Gamer Mode airs on RTÉ 2 this Saturday, November 28 at 11:35am and Sunday, November 28 at 12:25pm. It will also be available on RTÉ Player.
