Alert: Atlanta Academy Roster Move

The best jebait of the offseason!

This morning, fans of the Atlanta Reign Academy team awoke to some somber news. One of the team's support players, Dusttin "Dogman" Bowerman tweeted that he had been released by the team. The Academy player announced the move via Twitter.

Fans quickly came to Dogman's side offering various forms of encouragement. Many of them, myself included, were completely blindsided by the move. Why would Reign cut one of its promising young players? What happened? There were many questions but few answers. Having suffered through some questionable roster moves from various other teams in my past, I knew that sometimes these things just happen. It's a part of sports. However, that doesn't mean its something anyone enjoys or ever wants to see happen to a beloved team member.

Following in the wake of internet condolences, Atlanta Academy took to social media to add some kind words of their own, as agencies tend to do after dealing the killing blow to a player's hopes and dreams. The team had this to say.

Even his fellow players reached out to express their deep sense of grief.

If that's not the sound of a teammate in pain, I don't know what is. It's as if one can sense Blake "Gator" Scott fighting back the tears just to make that post. As a tank, this man was your life line. The man who's yellow orb allowed you to slam your giant rocket hammer into the faces of enemies with little concern for your own life. A man who trusted your shield would keep him not only safe but alive! It would all be different now. Part of me wonders if Gator could even see his screen as he typed that heartfelt goodbye. It doesn't get much more real than this grueling exchange between Esports comrades exchanging a fond farewell.

Lastly, we have the parent team itself, Atlanta Reign, taking to the digital expanse to wish Dogman well in his endeavors while offering a rare glimpse into the team's motivations for releasing their Academy player.

Jebaited. 4head. They got us. They got us good! There's one thing for sure, between Dafran locking Torbjorn during the Overwatch Community Countdown and this little stunt, this team knows how to meme. Well played team!

I'm a firm believer that teams that grow their own talent stand the test of time. It's moves like this that will generate more interest in the Reign's Academy team. Players will see that their hard work gets rewarded, their talent doesn't go unnoticed, and thus, are more inclined to join. It's a win/win. I seriously couldn't be happier with how all of this turned out! The Reign family is better for it, and so is my heart! With this move, the Reign roster now sits at 9, leaving 3 slots open as the team heads into the season. We will keep an eye out for additional moves as the team prepares for opening week. Dogman isn't listed as a 2-way player, so there's that slot to keep an eye on as well, so stay tuned! Welcome to the Reign, Dusttin "Dogman" Bowerman! It's much deserved! GG's!