Interview with JW: The Move to GODSENT and Roster Changes
After the recent roster shuffle in the Swedish esports scene, I caught up with three-time major champion Jesper “JW” Wecksell. He has recently joined GODSENT with three of his former Fnatic teammates, and I wanted to find out more about the move.
Changes Brewing Within Fnatic
Interviewer: When did it seem like Fnatic might make a change? Did olofm’s injury play a role in this decision?
JW: It all started around the time of olofm’s injury. Before the Columbus major, we wasted a lot of time in practice and in the last few days, we didn’t even practice. But honestly, even if olofm wasn’t injured, I believe we wouldn’t have practiced much. So, it all started there.
The Catalyst for the Move
Interviewer: What was the main reason behind this move? Did you consider sticking with the roster through 2016?
JW: I haven’t been satisfied with my position within the team for a long time. I knew that my playstyle was being doubted by my teammates, which affected me. I was afraid that no one else would pick me up, but after thinking about it, I realized that wasn’t a good enough reason to stay. I talked to the team and said that ELEAGUE would be my last tournament, and things progressed from there.
Choosing Teammates and Split Within Fnatic
Interviewer: Fans were surprised to see Krims team up with you and flusha instead of sticking with olofm and dennis. Was there a divide within the team?
JW: Krims had a close relationship with flusha and me outside of the game, but he also had a great relationship with everyone else. He was always a neutral person and I can’t answer why he chose certain teammates. Only he can answer that.
Znajder’s Return and Improvement
Interviewer: Znajder is making a comeback after disappointing runs with Dignitas and HellRaisers. Why do you think he struggled after leaving Fnatic?
JW: After leaving Fnatic, he took it hard and it affected his confidence. I don’t think an international team outside of Sweden is a good fit for him. But in the past two years, he’s learned from his mistakes and realized that being at the top requires hard work. The same goes for me and flusha. We’ve learned what it takes to be the best.
No Consideration for New Players
Interviewer: Did you consider picking up newer players for the team?
JW: We never considered picking up new players. This lineup was our dream lineup and everyone happily agreed to it.
Predicting the Future of GODSENT
Interviewer: Do you worry that GODSENT may face similar issues as Fnatic did in terms of skill level?
JW: I’m not worried about our team’s skill level. CS:GO is in a different meta now and we have players in different stages of their career. Flusha is highly motivated and I know what he’s capable of. I believe our team will succeed.
Consideration for Staying on Fnatic and Becoming a Part-Owner
Interviewer: Did you consider staying on Fnatic? How important is it for you to be a part-owner in GODSENT?
JW: We did consider staying on Fnatic because it’s a great organization. But becoming part-owners of GODSENT makes us even more motivated. We are involved in every decision and it’s a no-brainer for all of us.
The Ideal Role in GODSENT
Interviewer: What role do you see yourself playing in this team?
JW: I want to be myself and play my own game. I need to step up both my aggressive and passive play, but I’m ready to work hard. The team wants me to AWP at all times and I’m motivated to become great with the weapon again.
Rumors and Confirmation of the Team
Interviewer: Were there any truth to the rumors about you potentially joining NiP? When was the team confirmed?
JW: I was supposed to join NiP back when they brought allu in, but it didn’t work out due to contracts. The GODSENT lineup was confirmed about two weeks ago, but we couldn’t start practicing until recently due to vacations and contracts.
Opinions on Coaching Rule
Interviewer: What do you think about the coaching rule?
JW: I have mixed feelings about it. I used to like that a team wasn’t just about individual skill, but having a coach as an in-game leader also brings out the best plays. I think coaching should have been allowed, as it is important for the game.
Final Words
JW: Thanks to all the fans supporting us in this move. I hope people can cheer for both teams and not prefer one over the other. Thanks for the interview!