Winterfox has taken their first step to try and climb back into the League Champion Series, unveiling an almost entirely new roster for the 2015 North American Challenger Series Summer Split.
The only returning player is 2015 Spring Split addition Donghyeon “Avalon” Shin. Joining Avalon will be familiar faces and team substitutes Ryan “ShorterACE” Nget in the jungle and support player Kenneth “ExecutionerKen” Tang. Winterfox will also be adding former TSM Darkness mid laner Lyonel “Arcsecond” Pfaender as well as Gambit Gaming’s AD carry, Kristoffer “P1noy” Pederson.
“I have a lot of confidence in our new roster. I feel that I am more than capable in helping these players achieve great things. People may be skeptical of the situation, but I can assure them that this was the correct decision,” said head coach Tristan “ElderPeko” Young through a team statement. “In our time since relegation we have put together a strong pack of young, talented players. I am looking forward to helping them grow in a productive and positive environment, not only as players, but as individuals,” he added.
The biggest surprise of the bunch is likely the retainment of Avalon, who faced a fair bit of criticism as the team faltered and eventually fell in relegations. While the decision wasn’t explained in the team statement, ElderPeko opted to share his thoughts on Twitter.
“Despite what people think about Avalon, he has proven to me that he has what it takes to compete at a high level,” said ElderPeko. “He's always looked for ways to improve, but simply didn't have the environment to fuel his drive before I joined Winterfox. This season will see change,” he concluded.
Winterfox will spend the summer completing among five other teams for a chance to challenge for a spot in the LCS 2016 Spring Split. With a new coach and almost a complete roster makeover, Winterfox will cross their fingers that they have made enough of the right changes to turn the ship around.
