GamerLegion splits with coach Ashley ‘ash’ Battye after 5 years

GamerLegion has parted ways with coach Ashley “ash” Battye, ending the 35-year-old’s tenure of more than five years. Battye joined in 2020 and helped guide the roster to the BLAST.tv Paris Major grand final, where the team finished second to Vitality.

The organization confirmed the change in a public statement thanking Battye for his service. “We want to take a moment to thank Ash for everything he has given to our organization,” the team noted. “We are deeply grateful for all the many years he has contributed to GamerLegion and wish him all the best on the next chapter of his journey.”

Battye arrived mid-2020 as GamerLegion rebuilt after the exit of its Swedish core, which had featured William “draken” Sundin, Dennis “dennis” Edman, and Hampus “hampus” Poser.

Under his direction, the lineup climbed into the top 25 of the global rankings by early 2022. A mid-2022 overhaul that brought in Kamil “siuhy” Szkaradek and Frederik “acoR” Gyldstrand preceded steady results through late 2022 and early 2023, capped by the Paris Major run.

He stepped back from head coach duties late last year, citing burnout after a heavy travel schedule and difficulty securing a primary AWPer following the removal of Henrich “sl3nd” Hevesi. At an awards event earlier this year, Battye reflected on his future: “it’s moment where I’m ready to move on, I’m in a situation where I think it’s probably the right time for me.” He also outlined his goals: “I want to prove myself, I want to play with the best players, and I want to win trophies.”

Throughout his tenure, Battye worked with frequently reshaped lineups as key players left for larger organizations. His coaching drew notice after the Paris Major, with credit for stabilizing squads during transitions.

GamerLegion has not announced a replacement. Battye has indicated he plans to return to full-time coaching at a higher level.