CS:GO: seangares Steps Down from Cloud9's Starting Roster

Longtime in-game leader for Cloud9, Sean "seangares" Gares, is stepping down from the starting roster effective immediately, the organization announced on Tuesday.

seangares first joined the team in August 2014, and as their leader, was key in Cloud9's rise as a top North American team throughout 2015. During his tenure, Cloud9 finished in the Top 4 at many significant events such as the FACEIT 2015 Stage 2 Finals, ESWC 2015, and the ESL ESEA Pro League Season 1 - Finals. They also recently took first the iBUYPOWER Cup.

"The highs and lows of this lineup, to date, have all been endured by Sean," Cloud9 said in the press release. "The tremendous amount of effort he has put into bettering the in-game arsenal that the team has allocated through the past two years has been invaluable. Furthermore, Sean’s character out of game has been one that could be described as a hallmark within the community."

According to Cloud9, there will be an open tryout to determine any changes to the roster for the new year. seangares also bid farewell to his fans, thanking for their support throughout his career.

"My time as a player for Cloud9 has brought countless memories and experiences that I'll cherish for a lifetime," he said. "Not only did I get an opportunity to travel the world doing something I love, but I was blessed to do it with all great people; people I'm proud to call my friends. Regardless of who takes my spot, I truly wish the best for the team. I'm certain that the team's persistent hard work will pay off and that Cloud9 CS:GO will be a prominent force in 2016."

Although seangares' future is uncertain, given his experience as an in-game leader a position as a coach or analyst is a definite possibility. Below you can watch the video tribute to Sean "seangares" Gares from Cloud9.