At that level of play, quality and quantity, it's not so much a game anymore as it is a hobby. (I haven't hit it in both so for me, it's just a game)
He's not even that good at the game and will probably never be one of the best players out there. It may be a hobby but remember he did this to himself, actions have consequences.
I'll give you an example - Chess - it's only a game, yet its taken seriously by many people and they devote a large amount of time, even their whole lives to it. Hell, for some videogames, even SC2 and LoL. I don't think anyone here takes CoH that seriously, but you get my point anyway.
Those that dedicated their lives to chess are professionels which means they make money out of it. The CoH franchise will never be like that. You can't compare it to SC2, LoL or Dota2.
And also, if you just say that it's a game, then why is Hans getting really annoyed about it, claiming harrassment and all and threatening the banhammer for months now when he, as you suggest yourself, should take it calmly and just laugh it off, just like some members in the community?
I thought I covered this all ready. It dosen't matter if it's a game or on the internet it's still harassment. He crossed the line, as simple as that.