SemperFi has finalized its latest roster adjustments, bringing in experienced AWPer Alistair “aliStair” Johnston and head coach David “Kingfisher” Kingsford. The move comes as part of the organization’s effort to refine its competitive approach and elevate its standing in the Counter-Strike scene. To make space for the changes, longtime member Ethan “vision” Holst has been released, marking the first roster departure since the team was formed in July 2024.
The addition of aliStair brings a wealth of international experience to SemperFi. Having previously played under FlyQuest, as well as competing at multiple high-stakes tournaments, the Australian sniper is expected to be a key piece in the team’s firepower. His arrival also reunites him with Kingfisher, who previously coached him during their time at Renegades and Grayhound. Together, they achieved notable success, making it through three Major Challengers Stages at PGL Stockholm, PGL Antwerp, and IEM Rio. Their past synergy could be instrumental in shaping SemperFi’s performance moving forward.
In response to the roster change, Kristers “keen” Dārznieks, who previously wielded the AWP, will now shift into the role of rifling in-game leader. This transition aims to enhance the team’s tactical structure, allowing keen to focus on leading strategies while aliStair takes over sniper duties. The team hopes that this adjustment will provide a more cohesive and balanced approach, especially with Kingfisher stepping in to oversee the tactical direction.
Kingfisher’s return to coaching marks a significant moment for SemperFi. After taking a break following his tenure with VERTEX in 2023, he now steps back into the competitive scene with a mission to develop a more structured and disciplined approach for the team. With his expertise in team-building and strategic analysis, SemperFi is looking to refine its playstyle and establish itself as a formidable presence in upcoming tournaments.
The departure of vision signifies a major shift in SemperFi’s roster dynamics. As one of the original founding members, his exit marks the beginning of a new era for the team. While his contributions helped shape the squad’s foundation, SemperFi’s management believes that the latest roster changes will provide the necessary tools to compete at a higher level.
With these adjustments, SemperFi is poised to enter its next phase of competition with a renewed sense of direction. The team is expected to begin training immediately, focusing on integrating aliStair into their system and leveraging Kingfisher’s experience to sharpen their strategies. As the competitive season progresses, SemperFi will be looking to prove that these moves were the right step toward success.
The new official lineup for SemperFi is as follows:
- Kristers “keen” Dārznieks (Latvia) – Rifling IGL
- Matthew “Valiance” Hartrick (Australia) – Rifle
- Mārtiņš “shadiy” Gūtmanis (Latvia) – Rifle
- James “SaVage” Savage (Australia) – Rifle
- Alistair “aliStair” Johnston (Australia) – AWPer
- David “Kingfisher” Kingsford (Australia) – Head Coach