Staff Profile: Keat
Gaming Alias:
Keat
The Story Behind the Alias:
I used to go by Nesko when I did graffiti artwork, but in the gaming scene, it felt disconnected from who I am. About 10 years ago, I changed it to Keat to feel more connected to the gaming space in a different way.
Real Name:
Keaton
Location:
Ontario, Canada
Starting Counter-Strike:
I started playing Counter-Strike in 2016 as something different to play. I instantly connected with the game, staying up all hours of the night during high school grinding ESEA A+ pugs and trying to make a name for myself.
Inspiration for Competitive Play:
Something just clicked for me with competitive shooters. I’ve always wanted to be the best version of myself, and there’s no better way to test your skills than to put them against others. You learn from your mistakes and make changes for the next game.
Other Games Played:
I played a lot of Fortnite at its peak, nearly qualifying for the World Cup in Solos, and Valorant.
Favorite Counter-Strike Map:
My all-time favorite map is the CS:GO version of Train. It offered a lot of freedom and creativity, especially when taking the A bombsite.
Favorite Role in the Game:
I love lurking in competitive games. I’ve been playing so long that I know the timings of peeks and how to slip behind players during rotations. It’s incredibly rewarding and a key asset in high-level FPS shooters.
Favorite Professional Player/Team:
Chicken Coop, of course! Just kidding, my favorite player of all time is Skadoodle. The talent he brought to the server was out of this world. And, of course, “I’m not crying, you’re crying.”
Role on Chicken Coop:
I am the Art Director for Chicken Coop. I create all the graphics you see on our social media, community cups, and player stream graphics.
Favorite Moment with Chicken Coop:
My favorite achievement so far is the New Year’s Community Cash Cup. Knowing I had a big hand in developing it and seeing top teams go head-to-head in something I helped create was incredibly fulfilling.
Teammates’ Description:
I think people would describe me as passionate. I put my all into everything I do, and if I fall short, I learn from my mistakes.
Biggest Strength as a Player:
Game sense. As a lurker, strong game sense is essential for determining ideal paths, predicting enemy movements, and successfully executing plays.
Area for Improvement:
Currently, I’m working on improving my movement, specifically counter-strafing, as it often gets me eliminated in gunfights.
Pre-Game Rituals:
For official matches, I listen to music really loud to get rid of jitters.
Favorite Snack or Drink During Gaming:
I don’t usually snack, but my go-to drink is any of the Zero Ultra Monster energy drinks.
Relaxation and Recharging Outside of Gaming:
I enjoy spending time with my family and dogs. Even short breaks help me recharge.
Fun Fact:
I used to competitively figure skate for about 15 years. Unfortunately, a knee injury stopped me from continuing.
Gaming Setup or Lucky Charms:
I don’t have any unique setups or lucky charms.
Dream Feature for Counter-Strike:
I’d love to add new features or maps that challenge gameplay strategies.
Favorite Gaming Memory:
Cloud9 winning the Boston Major. I’ll never forget sitting in a fish and chips shop in my hometown, listening to the match while having dinner with my family. The hairs on my arms stood up when they announced the winner.
What Being Part of Chicken Coop Means to Me:
Being part of the professional Counter-Strike scene has been a dream of mine since I was 15. This project has allowed me to start building that dream.
Advice for Aspiring Counter-Strike Players:
Practice, practice, and more practice. Counter-Strike isn’t something you master overnight. The grind to improve never stops. Also, check out my YouTube channel for tips and tricks!
