AURA parts ways with roster amidst coaching payment dispute between Zhenn and Warden
Organization AURA has parted ways with its Counter-Strike 2 roster. The decision follows an internal conflict regarding coaching compensation between player Shawn "Zhenn" Knapp and former BLUEJAYS coach Matthew "Warden" Dickens.
According to Zhenn, the dispute centered on payments for coaching services. The player stated that he had been paying Warden out of pocket to benefit from his extensive experience with top NA teams. However, the quality and frequency of the sessions during the first two months were reportedly unsatisfactory.
While the team agreed to keep Warden through August, they ultimately decided to withhold payment for the final two weeks of the month. Zhenn alleged that Warden provided minimal work during the team's preparation and participation in FRAG Midwest: St. Louis. Although AURA was not a party to the private agreement, the organization compensated Warden to resolve the issue and prevent further drama.
The organization ultimately decided to drop the roster, as the dispute reflected poorly on the squad and presented a reputational risk. With the matter settled, the former AURA lineup is now looking for a new organization ahead of Season 59.
The final AURA roster consisted of:
- Shawn "Zhenn" Knapp
- KeWOZe
- Mitchell "shoosT" Youssef
- Margod
- Xtasyyy
Имба
