Former Smash pro Ally shares mental health journey after community exile and ban
Ally’s Personal Crisis
Former competitive Super Smash Bros. player Elliot ‘Ally’ Carroza-Oyarce has publicly addressed the mental health struggles he faced after being ostracized from the gaming community in 2019. The EVO 2016 champion revealed he contemplated suicide during the darkest period of his exile.
The controversy stemmed from Ally’s inappropriate relationship with fellow player Zack ‘CaptainZack’ Lauth, who was underage at the time. This violation of community standards led to immediate consequences including a lifetime ban from major tournaments.
The situation escalated when Ally, then 27, acknowledged the relationship with the 16-year-old CaptainZack. His public admission and subsequent retirement from competition came during CEO 2019, where he described his actions as “a grave error in judgment.”
Community Response and Support
While many in the Smash community distanced themselves from Ally following the scandal, a crucial support network emerged. Montreal-based player ‘Z’ and others intervened, ensuring Ally received professional mental health support despite the community-wide backlash.
“Without those who listened to my side of the story, I might not be here today,” Ally expressed in a March 2021 tweet. “The darkness nearly overcame me, but their compassion saved my life.”
This support came during the broader esports #MeToo movement of 2020, which exposed misconduct by several high-profile players including Gonzalo ‘ZeRo’ Barrios and Nairoby ‘Nairo’ Quezada. The community’s response to Ally’s situation suggests evolving approaches to handling player misconduct with mental health considerations.
Path to Recovery
Z explained the community’s measured approach: “We ensured Ally received therapy before considering any reintegration. Mental health professionals confirmed he’s not a threat and was himself a victim in certain aspects.”
The rehabilitation process included mandatory therapy sessions and a temporary competition ban pending professional evaluation. This structured approach contrasts with previous community responses that often favored permanent exile without support systems.
“After intensive therapy and reflection, I’m finally prepared to share my complete story,” Ally announced, signaling a potential turning point in his personal and professional journey.
Current Status and Future
Despite some community support, Ally remains barred from most major Smash tournaments under the Code of Conduct Panel’s decision. A brief competitive return in early 2020 met with significant criticism, demonstrating the community’s ongoing divided perspectives.
Notable players including Leonardo ‘MkLeo’ Lopez Perez and Jestise ‘MVD’ Negron have publicly supported Ally’s recovery. Their endorsements suggest shifting attitudes toward rehabilitation in competitive gaming culture.
For anyone facing similar struggles, help is available through the Suicide Prevention Helpline 1-800-273-8255 (USA), the Samaritans 116-123 (UK), or Lifeline 13-11-14 (AUS).
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