100 Thieves’ return to Counter-Strike begins with a clear statement of intent. The organization has officially appointed Lukas “gla1ve” Rossander as head coach of its CS roster, confirming earlier HLTV reports. For the legendary Danish IGL, this marks the first step of his coaching career. For 100 Thieves, it signals a conscious shift toward structure, experience, and championship heritage instead of another short-term experiment.
gla1ve: from architect of an era to a coach for a new generation
The name gla1ve is inseparable from the most successful dynasty in Counter-Strike history. He served as the strategic mind behind Astralis, a team that reshaped the game at the highest level. Astralis did not just win Major titles. They redefined macro play, preparation, and team discipline.
Four Major trophies, years of dominance, and elite tempo control built gla1ve’s reputation as one of the most influential IGLs ever. His ability to adapt and lead under pressure became a defining trait of that era.
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A difficult final chapter as a player
The final years of gla1ve’s playing career proved far more challenging. After Astralis’ core lineup fell apart, health issues and failed rebuilds followed. Eventually, he moved to ENCE’s bench, where he spent five months without a real opportunity to return to top-level play.
In November, gla1ve officially announced his retirement as a player. The decision did not feel like an ending. Instead, it marked a transition into a role that better matched his strengths. For many observers, the move felt natural. gla1ve was always more of a strategist than a pure entry fragger.
100 Thieves’ strategy: building a system, not hype
Signing gla1ve is more than a branding move. It reflects the philosophy behind 100 Thieves’ new CS project. After several years away from the scene, the organization returns during a generational shift in Counter-Strike.
Young aim stars emerge every season. However, stability, structure, and discipline have become increasingly rare. 100 Thieves aim to fill that gap. The project centers on people who understand long-term preparation, high-pressure environments, and championship cycles. One-off upsets are not the goal. In this structure, gla1ve becomes the ideological core. He will shape team culture, define the approach to the game, and build a clear identity.
rain as IGL and the veteran core
Earlier, 100 Thieves introduced Håvard “rain” Nygaard as the team’s first player and in-game leader. For the Norwegian veteran, this move opens a new chapter. He spent nearly a decade with FaZe Clan, reaching countless finals and winning a Major title.
The pairing of rain and gla1ve follows a clear logic. rain leads on the server and manages personalities. gla1ve builds systems and long-term structure. This is not a typical hype-driven North American project. Instead, it applies a European approach within an NA organization.
device on the horizon: a potential reunion
Reports from HLTV and Dust2.dk add further intrigue. According to sources, 100 Thieves remain close to signing Nicolai “device” Reedtz. If confirmed, the move would reunite two central figures from Astralis’ golden era.
The rumor alone highlights the scale of ambition. 100 Thieves do not plan a quiet return to the scene. They aim higher than tier-two relevance.
Community reaction: “GOAT IGL”
The announcement quickly sparked strong reactions on social media. The teaser phrase “Target found” left little room for doubt. Fans instantly connected the dots.
Many joked about the roster’s average age. Others called gla1ve the “GOAT IGL.” Some even predicted the team would gain an advantage before playing a single match. More importantly, the community sensed seriousness, not nostalgia.
Current 100 Thieves CS roster
- Håvard “rain” Nygaard — in-game leader
- Lukas “gla1ve” Rossander — head coach
Further announcements are expected in the coming weeks.
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The bigger picture
The CS2 scene now balances ultra-aggressive youth with a lack of stable systems. In this environment, 100 Thieves are betting on a proven championship model.
Appointing gla1ve as head coach carries risk. However, it is a calculated one. If the project succeeds, it may offer more than a comeback. It could present a new team-building model where experience once again becomes a key asset.
