Audric "JACKZ" Jug unexpectedly got a chance to return to a major tournament, once again as a substitute for Vitality. He was offered to replace William "mezii" Merriman at the BLAST World Final, as the team is focused on preparing for the RMR and the upcoming Major. JACKZ, known for his positive attitude, gladly accepted the role despite having limited time for practice.
A New Chapter for the Counter-Strike Veteran
For the 32-year-old JACKZ, this is the first LAN opportunity since Pro League 17, where he also played for Vitality. In recent years, his career has declined: after leaving G2, he failed to secure a spot in either HEET or TSM, and his project Project G was short-lived. However, JACKZ is determined to prove that age is no barrier and he can still compete at the highest level. "I think I can still play one or two years at the top level", he shared in an interview with HLTV.
Tournament Details and Role in Vitality
Before BLAST World Final, JACKZ had only two online practice sessions with Vitality. This is limited, considering that during EPL Season 17 he had more time to adapt to Dan "apEX" Madesclaire's style. This time, his role will differ: he needs to adapt to the positions previously played by mezii. Vitality chose not to shift focus from RMR preparation, which led to limited practicing with a substitute player. "I think I can perform well in this role, even though it's not entirely familiar to me", JACKZ remarked.
Challenges and Ambitions: A Look at His Career and the French Scene
Past projects for JACKZ have been difficult. Roles and training processes didn’t align at TSM, and HEET also left a bitter mark due to payment delays. He hopes that BLAST World Final with Vitality will be his chance to remind everyone of his level. Furthermore, the French scene faces challenges – even 3DMAX, the only consistently performing French team, faced financial difficulties. JACKZ admits that CS remains his passion and he dreams of winning a trophy, something he hasn't achieved yet.
Last Chance at the Top: Significance for JACKZ and Vitality
For JACKZ, this tournament is not just a chance to return to LAN, but also an opportunity to prove he can play at a high level and overcome age stereotypes. Vitality, who may not expect high results from this substitution, are still ready to fight for victory and aim to enjoy the game, progressing from match to match. JACKZ, in turn, will aim to use this invitation as a new step toward the goal he has pursued for years in Counter-Strike.
Source: HLTV | Header: Team Vitality/X
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