M80 welcome kaplan as new Head Coach

M80 has officially announced that Adam "kaplan" Kaplan is joining the organization as their new head coach. Just a month ago, kaplan was the head coach of Sentinels, but after some drastic moves from the org, he found himself without a team. Now, he takes over M80’s Tier 2 roster, about to compete in VCL 2026 - North America: Stage 2.

“Greatful to everyone at M80”

On X, kaplan shared how excited he is to join the squad, adding that some of his most enjoyable days coaching have come in the past few weeks:

“I’M BACK. Some of my most fun days coaching have been in the last couple weeks. These guys understand what it means to be a team, and they know how to have fun while doing it. Stoked to show what we’re capable of, and I’m grateful to everyone at M80 for placing their trust in us.”

Marki "NiSMO" Tayar was also recently brought into M80. He initially retired at the start of the year from professional play to become the team’s head coach. With Kaplan now taking over, NiSMO returns to the server and is back to clicking heads.

Kicked from Sentinels

After Sentinels bombed out of Kickoff, the organization decided to part ways with kaplan effective immediately. In a press release, Sentinels CEO Rob Moore explained that the roster decisions made by kaplan following the disappointing results at Champions 2025 ultimately moved the team in the wrong direction. Kaplan was replaced by former Rex Regum Qeon head coach Martin "Ewok" Ewok.

The circumstances surrounding kaplan’s departure generated significant buzz across social media. Since then, Sentinels have continued to reshape their roster, parting ways with Marshall "N4RRATE" Massey and bringing in Jonah "JonahP" Pulice.

Challengers Stage 2 About to Begin

M80 is currently competing in the North American Challengers League and is gearing up for Stage 2. The team is in the middle of a rebuild; Derrek "Derrek" Ha departed just days ago, and NiSMO has shifted roles once again. Bringing in a seasoned head coach like kaplan could be the move that stabilizes the roster and sets them up for a strong showing in the upcoming tournaments.

For more VCT news, stay tuned to THESPIKE. GG.

Featured image source: Colin Young-Wolff/Riot Games.