Editor’s note: This story has been updated. For a full breakdown of the team’s personnel moves and what they mean for the Fuel, here’s more from our insider Sean Collins.
The Dallas Fuel announced the release of head coach Aaron “Aero” Atkins on Monday evening. The move, effective immediately, followed a day of massive staff moves including the releases of superstar Jang “Decay” Gui-un and assistant coach Louis “Tikatee” Lebel-Wong.
Fuel assistant coach Kim “Yong” Yong-Jin was named interim head coach as the Fuel searches for a new leader.
— Dallas Fuel (@DallasFuel) August 4, 2020
Aero led a streaky, but underwhelming Fuel team to a 7-10 record in his third season with the organization. The Fuel suffered crushing defeats over the weekend to the Philadelphia Fusion and Atlanta Reign, signifying a lack of improvement.
Envy Gaming owner Mike Rufail has been vocal that the goal with his teams has always been to compete for championships, and the Fuel have fallen well short of that in three seasons. Aero took over the team midway through 2018.
After a promising start to the season, the Fuel have again failed to rise above the middle of the pack.
Have decided to part ways with @DallasFuel
— Aaron Atkins (@Aero_OW) August 4, 2020
I started coaching Overwatch in 2016. I've coached many players and have worked with multiple teams. I've won big tournaments and I've been on crazy loss streaks. I've celebrated players who've accomplished great things and
Fuel fans were often critical of Aero on social media, especially when the team failed to perform in matches against weaker teams or under-performed with talented rosters
A source told The Dallas Morning News that there were disagreements within the coaching staff and players that led to multiple issues, including Decay’s refusal to practice or cooperate with the team. Tikatee was told his release had to do with “philosophical differences” and team direction.
Yong’s first match as interim head coach will be in the Countdown Cup against the Washington Justice on Friday at 6 p.m. Fuel fans won’t have to wait long for a different looking group.
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