BIG Gamble? Org’s Future in Women’s CS:GO Questioned

Look Sports Media – BIG Equipa has made a significant roster move, securing the talents of British rifler Mia "aiM" Cooper, formerly of Ninjas in Pyjamas, alongside Sofia "sosya" Vasileva, previously with Overpeek. This acquisition comes at a pivotal moment for the organization and the broader landscape of Women’s Counter-Strike.

Following the dissolution of the ESL Impact circuit, aiM found herself without a team after NiP’s departure from the female CS:GO scene. Her arrival at BIG Equipa offers a fresh start with the reigning ESL Impact Season 8 champions. This team, already boasting the formidable duo of Hania "Hanka" Pudlis and Wiktoria "vicu" Janicka (ex-NAVI), finally achieved Impact glory after numerous near misses.

However, the victory was bittersweet. vicu’s departure to join the former Imperial Valkyries core, a frequent obstacle for NAVI Javelins, created a void. Furthermore, Alexandra "kyossa" Tykhonska’s retirement after the championship win left two crucial spots open. aiM steps in as a dependable and strategically flexible player. Known for her patient site holding and willingness to lead pushes, aiM’s team-oriented approach was instrumental in NiP’s two semi-final appearances at ESL Impact Seasons 7 and 8.

While the addition of aiM and sosya signals a continued commitment to Women’s CS:GO, BIG acknowledges the uncertain future. Roman Reinhardt, BIG’s Chief Gaming Officer, issued a statement emphasizing the organization’s dedication to supporting the scene, especially during a period of instability.

"At BIG, we are deliberately committed to our BIG Equipa roster – especially at a time when the scene is under pressure and losing visibility and structural support. For us, this is not a reason to step away. It’s a reason to step up," Reinhardt stated. He continued, "If we talk seriously about equal opportunity in esports, we have to be willing to support the structures behind it – even when they’re not in the spotlight. Visibility doesn’t happen by accident. It’s built."

However, Reinhardt also tempered expectations, admitting, "We’re also honest about reality. We closely monitor how the scene develops and we can’t ignore economic factors. Still, our clear focus is to do everything we can to stay invested and provide stability."

Reinhardt stressed the importance of a collaborative effort, stating, "One thing is clear: without teams, there is no scene. And without tournaments, there is no future. That’s why responsibility doesn’t stop with organizations. Tournament organizers play a key role. Consistent formats, real exposure, and long-term commitment are essential for the growth of female CS – and this is where major organizers need to step up."

He concluded, "BIG will continue on this path as long as we can stand behind it responsibly. Not because it’s easy. But because it matters." The statement underscores BIG’s dedication to Women’s CS:GO while acknowledging the economic realities that could influence their future involvement. The organization’s commitment, however, hinges on the emergence of a sustainable tournament ecosystem.