Valorant Rosermania: Cloud9 release runi and head coach mCe

As the VCT offseason gains full steam, renowned esports organization Cloud9 has announced the departure of Head Coach Matthew “mCe” Elmore and player Dylan “runi” Cad.

The news of Matthew “mCe” Elmore and Dylan “runi” Cad’s departure from Cloud9 has sent shockwaves through the Valorant community, raising questions about the future of the C9 Valorant team. Matthew’s journey with Cloud9 has been nothing short of remarkable. His strategic acumen, unwavering commitment, and knack for nurturing emerging talents have firmly established him as a revered coach in the esports domain.

During his tenure, he skillfully navigated the team through various challenges, securing significant victories that solidified Cloud9 and its Valorant roster as a formidable presence in the world of Valorant. One of the highlights of his coaching career was Cloud9’s impressive run during the 2022 Valorant Champions Tour season, where they earned a coveted spot at the prestigious Valorant Champions event in Iceland.

Unfortunately @Cloud9 has decided to not move forward with myself. I am willing to explore any and all options whether Head Coach or Assistant Coach and even Collegiate if the situation is beneficial for both parties. Willing to relocate as well.

— Matthew Elmore (@MatthewCElmore) September 10, 2023

 

This achievement showcased Matthew’s meticulous planning and tactical brilliance, underscoring his ability to lead the team to success on the grandest stage. However, his influence extended beyond mere victories. He possessed a remarkable talent for identifying and nurturing emerging talents, a quality that significantly contributed to the growth of Valorant as a competitive esport.

Runi’s short stint with C9

Prior to the commencement of the 2023 Americas League, Cloud9 made bold roster changes by parting ways with star player Jaccob “yay” Whiteaker and in-game leader Anthony “vanity” Malaspina. In their place, the organization brought in Dylan “runi” Cade and rookie collegiate pro Jake “jakee” Anderson.

As a former in-game leader for Soniqs, runi assumed the role of leading the North American squad. Both runi and jakee performed admirably during the Regular Season, with Cloud9 emerging as the second-best team from the Americas, following LOUD.

I appreciate and value the time that I spent with @Cloud9 but unfortunately it has come to an end. I will be looking at all opportunities as an unrestricted free agent.

I am open to playing any role besides duelist, and can IGL, co-IGL, or just frag. Open to any region with the…

— C9 runi (@runiVL) September 10, 2023

 

While Cloud9’s strong performance in the Regular Season seemed to foreshadow a promising year, the team faltered in securing their slots at the Masters and Champions events due to losses in the Americas League Playoffs. Even in the Last Chance Qualifier (LCQ), where they were the clear favorites, the North American squad suffered a surprising upset against KRÜ, extinguishing their sole chance of making it to the Champions event.

As a result, their dominant 8-1 Regular Season record failed to translate into participation in the two global events following LOCK//IN and the organization decided to release runi alongside their head coach mCe.

Header:Colin Young-Wolff/Riot Games