Look Sports Media – After four and a half years as a foundational pillar of the regional League of Legends scene, Venomcrest, a beloved UK grassroots organization, has announced its cessation of all operations for the 2026 season. Founder Jack "Ace" Doe confirmed the difficult decision, marking the end of a significant chapter for a team that became synonymous with opportunity and competitive spirit within the British amateur circuit.
Venomcrest quickly established itself as a cornerstone of the UK’s developmental League of Legends landscape since its inception. Doe’s initial vision for the organization was clear: to cultivate accessible pathways for aspiring esports competitors to experience the thrill of the game, and to ultimately conquer the NLC championship. Over its tenure, Venomcrest remarkably achieved both these ambitious goals, and in some aspects, even surpassed them.
The organization’s impact on player development is undeniable, having nurtured over 70 League of Legends talents across its main and academy rosters. Many of these players leveraged their time with "the crest" to advance their careers, progressing to higher tiers of competitive play. Beyond Summoner’s Rift, Venomcrest also broadened its horizons, venturing into titles like TF2 and FIFA, connecting with a wider array of passionate individuals.
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A crowning achievement arrived in the summer of 2024 when Venomcrest secured the coveted NLC title, fulfilling one of Ace’s primary objectives. This triumph propelled them to represent their region at the prestigious EMEA Masters, a feat few organizations, especially from the grassroots, can claim. The journey was further punctuated by an undefeated run in the 2025 UKEL Division 1, culminating in a memorable, champagne-soaked podium celebration.
However, the path of a grassroots esports organization is rarely without its trials. In late 2025, Ace candidly addressed the future of Venomcrest in a video, acknowledging the increasing difficulty in sustaining the momentum and replicating the successes of previous years. The 2025 season proved to be a challenging campaign, a stark contrast to the organization’s dominant 2023 and 2024 heydays. These competitive struggles were further compounded by Ace’s personal journey through grief following the passing of his father. Despite these immense personal and organizational hurdles, he continued to commend the academy and UKEL squads for their valiant efforts.
While plans for 2026 remained uncertain at the time of that video, the organization has now confirmed it will not continue. In a poignant farewell message, Ace expressed profound gratitude for the unwavering support from the League of Legends community, describing it as "invaluable" during times of struggle. He extended thanks to everyone who contributed to making Venomcrest what it was: "a small org with big dreams."
The departure of Venomcrest leaves a noticeable void in the UK League of Legends ecosystem. Yet, its legacy is firmly cemented, having not only provided countless opportunities but also demonstrably showcased the rich talent pool within the region. Venomcrest’s story serves as a powerful testament to the passion and dedication that fuels grassroots esports, reminding us that even the smallest organizations can leave an indelible mark on the competitive landscape.
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