Peeping on the IGL situation: 'Right now we're just kind of playing freestyle CS'
The year has begun with FRAG Miami 2, and many new squads are eager to showcase their skills and accumulate valuable VRS points after the winter break. This is particularly true for Wildcard, who assembled a new lineup during the off-season, starting from scratch with 0 VRS points in a highly competitive scene.
Wildcard's efforts paid off today with a 2-1 victory over Sharks, securing their place in Stage Two in Miami. Following the match, Jeffrey 'Mnmzzz' Moore from Dust2.us interviewed Jaxon 'Peeping' Cornwell about the team's formation, leadership, and goals for the new year.
The interview, available on YouTube or in text form below, has been edited for brevity and clarity.
I'm excited to cover FRAG Miami 2 for Dust2.us. We're off to a great start with Peeping from Wildcard, who secured their first major victory with the new squad after a thrilling 2-1 win over Sharks. How are you feeling after that win?
I'm feeling fantastic. It's a significant achievement for our team, especially as we're just starting with a new VRS core. This was our first official match, and we've been scrimming. So, getting a win is truly special.
With that win, you've secured a spot in Stage Two, where you'll start earning VRS points tomorrow. How do you feel about this new squad so far in the early days?
It's an incredible team. We have Reck, who played on M80 and other good CS:GO teams. CLASIA is also a strong player, despite some temper issues, which we've addressed. mhL is incredibly skilled and has played on top teams like AGO and Falcons. sSen, recently picked up from Wildcard Academy, is an excellent anchor lurker. Having all these talented players is a dream come true.
How did this roster come together? Were you involved from the beginning, or did you join later?
I was there from the start. I was the only one left on the team. The others had to move on, and I understand their decision. It's unfortunate because I loved playing with them, but we made the best of it. I've been with the team since the beginning, and we built the roster by selecting players who fit well together.
Who joined first, the NA players or the European players from Wildcard Academy? Were you looking at CLASIA and Reck first or sSen and mhL?
The NA players joined first. Finding NA players is challenging, and we needed a strong NA core. We aimed to get the best available.
A question on everyone's mind is about the IGL situation. No one stands out as an obvious captain/IGL. What's the current situation?
We're taking a flexible approach. We enjoy playing together, and we all have ideas. We make decisions collectively, considering what's best for the team. We're not inexperienced, so we collaborate to make the right choices.
Is there a plan for someone to emerge as the IGL? Are you vocal about wanting that role?
Someone will definitely step into that role, but right now, we're just playing freestyle CS. I don't see myself as the IGL. I think mhL or CLASIA could take that position.
So, it's not something you necessarily want?
No, not at all. I'm not good at micro-managing like that.
Another new addition is your head coach, JamezIRL. What can you tell me about him?
James is an excellent coach. He's positive and keeps our mental game strong. Staying positive is crucial in CS. He has great ideas and has worked with top players worldwide. He lets us bounce ideas off each other, which is fantastic.
How does he compare to your previous coach, vinS?
James is more free-flowing, while vinS was more structured. vinS brought many ideas and was exceptional. I loved playing with him; he's one of the best coaches I've worked with.
He played a more structured style, while James lets us play freestyle. I appreciate both styles.
As you head into Day Two, you'll be in the GSL group, facing a tough challenge with GamerLegion potentially in your group. How do you feel about your chances of making the playoffs?
I feel good. GamerLegion is strong, but their new player, ztr, doesn't play the roles PR does, which might work in our favor. However, they're still a formidable team, and we'll need to be prepared for a challenging match.
With the team starting with 0 VRS points, will you be busy playing as many matches as possible?
Absolutely. We'll play everything we can to earn as many VRS points as possible. We might not make the first major, but our main goal is the second major. If we make the first major, it's a bonus.
With many European LANs on the calendar, will you consider traveling to Europe for better practice and more diverse opponents?
Absolutely. European LANs offer better practice and a chance to play against a wide range of teams, which is beneficial for our development.
