If you weren't planning on watching Code A today, I suggest that you reconsider. We will be debuting a player that I have known and admired for a very long time. We are very proud to officially introduce the newest member of Liquid, Choi "Zenio" Jung Min.
oGs head coach TheWind approached me a few weeks ago and asked if I would be interested in Zenio for Liquid. Zenio had recently left oGs because he felt like he could play better outside of the team-house. Living in a house together with 15 guys sleeping in bunkbeds is not for everyone, and Zenio wanted to go back to a familiar environment from the beta, where he played from home and accumulated the most games played of anyone in the world. While oGs never questioned his motivation, they had to uphold their rule that players must live in the team-house. oGs parted ways with Zenio, but they wanted to help find a new home for him nonetheless.
Upon hearing about this opportunity from TheWind, I was immediately intrigued. Ever since Liquid began its partnership with oGs and I went to Korea to meet the players and coaches, I have liked Zenio a lot. Together with MC, Zenio has been one of the friendliest and most outgoing oGs members towards me and the Liquid players. He has some of the best English among pro-gamers, which is something I think everyone will notice soon. He was one of the core members that made oGs what it is today, possessing a combination of work ethic, skill and personality that allowed him to headline their Zerg lineup for over a year. Zenio himself had no interest in joining any other Korean team, but was excited about the opportunity to stay within oGs-TL. After many hours of talking with TheWind and Zenio we knew that signing Zenio was the right move.
Anyone who has spent a lot of time following the Korean scene and Code S in particular knows that Zenio is a player with highs and lows. When he plays up to his potential, he is on the same level as the best Zergs in the world. oGs and Liquid players have insisted for the longest time, and still believe that when Zenio's playing behind closed doors, he is one of the top three Zergs in Korea.
Zenio's winning record over players like MVP, Idra, and HerO is a testament to his exceptional talent. He has been a Code S player since the tournament began, and that has been while underachieving by all of his teammate's standards.
Of course, we cannot ignore the fact that he has a reputation for being a player who gets nervous on the big stage. However, we believe that you will see the real Zenio soon enough. He is still young, and getting rid of those stage jitters will take time and experience. Liquid can provide him with both. If you give him time and stay with him during the process, he will surely reward your patience and support with championships.
Zenio's incredible work ethic has made it very easy to work with him. There's an overwhelming amount of things a player has to take care of when transitioning from a Korean team to an international team like Liquid, and it can be very tiring and distracting. Countless computer programs have to be installed and learned, dozens of conversations need to be had with Liquid staff, paperwork needs to be done, Liquid's internal structure has to be familiarized – and half of the time you're doing all of this in a language you're not exactly 100% familiar with. Zenio has worked hard on making this transition go as smoothly as possible, and we are very impressed at how he has carried himself so far.
We look forward to what your skill, intensity, and determination will bring to Liquid. Welcome to the team, Liquid`Zenio.
oGsTheWind:
I was very sad to send away Zenio, who had been a member of our family, but rules are rules. However, I'm very thankful for this opportunity that allows him to return to our family, as a member of TeamLiquid.
Zenio is a player who will try hard and can get good results no matter where he goes. Especially now that he has joined TeamLiquid, I hope he can grow and become a player Liquid will be proud of. Jung Min, you rascal, we'll always love you!
I really look forward to what kind of controversy Zenio can cause next time we play EG...
Jokes aside, I'm really glad Zenio is joining the team for a lot of reasons. Back when me and TLO first arrived in Korea, Zenio was one of two players in oGs who actually spoke pretty good English alongside Hyperdub. Nowadays everyone has improved so much that I sometimes take it for granted to be able to converse, but back in those days it was really a great comfort to have him there.
Zenio has always been one of the most impressive players to watch in SC2. For instance, when one of his bases is about to be overrun, you can be sure that he will have transferred his drones away just in time, to mine at a new Hatchery that completes right as the drones arrive.
MVP has called him the best ZvT player in Korea, and while people who have only seen his most recent games might be surprised by this, nobody who has played him in practice is.
Zenio is the hardest working player I've met. While I was in Korea I saw him play more than anyone else. The first thing I noticed about Zenio's play was that he would never, ever go into a fight unless he was sure he would win it. He had insane patience, and I was very impressed by it. I really liked watching him play, and sometimes it even hurt my own practice because I watched his games so much. He is very fast but also very precise which makes his multitasking great. It was very helpful for Ret and I to be able to talk to him about strategies.
During the weeks when I was in Korea, Zenio, MC, and Ensnare were the ones to beat during the daily ranking matches. They would always get top three. With Zenio joining the team I expect him to not only raise our skill level but also inspire everyone to work harder by example. I am looking forward to being able to discuss strategies and watch his replays again, and also meet him at future events.
Welcome to the team and good luck on your journey for code S!
Zenio has been very busy in the past few weeks, not only preparing for his Code A match but also going through the transition to becoming a Liquid member. He will not be ready to begin streaming for 2 to 3 weeks. Even so, he found the time to talk to Team Liquid and let the fans know him better.
To begin, could you introduce yourself briefly? Tell us how you began playing games, and how you became a progamer.
Liquid`Zenio: Hi, I'm Choi Jung Min, 21 years old. I was practicing to become a Warcraft III pro-gamer, but when I heard Starcraft II was coming out I decided to play Starcraft: Brood War in preparation. I started playing SC II as soon as the closed beta came out. I remember that my first game was against a Blizzard Korea employee on the Korean ladder.
You were gaming with the goal of becoming a pro-gamer; were you fixed on playing RTS games? Did any other genres or games catch your interest?
Liquid`Zenio: It's not that RTS games were my goal, it's that I liked Starcraft and I was always watching OnGameNet during my school days, thinking that I would become a pro-gamer for sure.
You spent a lot of time at oGs before departing. How was your time there, and what led you to join Liquid?
Liquid`Zenio: oGs is always trying to improve their practice environment, and they have a really great environment where you can focus solely on gaming at the team house right now.
But asides from the great environment there, I was just uncomfortable living together with so many people, so I decided to play from home. Even though I left the team in the end, I think oGs is a really great team to be with from the way they still tried to connect me with Liquid afterward.
I decided on Liquid because I wanted to play abroad more frequently, and because they are a team that is partnered with oGs, and thus a team I've been friendly with for a long time.
What has your relationship with Liquid and its members been like so far? You lived in the same house, so who are some of the players you were particularly close with?
Liquid`Zenio: I lived with Dario, Jonathan, Jos, Hayder, and also Chris who is gone now. I was having trouble with life at the team-house, but I saw those guys and imagined how much harder it was for them coming from afar, so I tried to be friendly to them and help them out in some way.
The funniest thing I remember was that when Jos first came to the house, the first thing he did before introducing himself was to point at Hayder and call him “Chobo.”
I haven't met Tyler yet, but I'd really like to meet him.
You've been abroad once for the NASL Grand Finals. How do you think ESPORTS is different in Korea and out?
Liquid`Zenio: I think foreign players really enjoy the tournaments as a whole, and they have a fun time at parties after. The fans are more passionate, and I'd really like to go again.
There are a lot of big tournaments outside of Korea now, but is GSL still the number one goal for a Korean player like yourself?
Liquid`Zenio: Still, the GSL has the highest skill level, so I would still want a GSL championship the most...
Have you been keeping up with the foreign community? For instance, do you visit TL or watch foreign tournaments?
Liquid`Zenio: I've visited TeamLiquid since a long time ago to watch player streams. I always try to watch Zerg players.
Now there are two Korean players in Liquid, you and HerO. Furthermore, there are many other foreign teams cooperating with Korean teams and players as well. What do you think of this trend?
Liquid`Zenio: I think it's good because more Korean players can go abroad, and I'd like if more cooperation happened.
If you talk to oGs or Liquid players, they say you are a really amazing player. On the other hand, you have a reputation for not being able to show this skill on stage. How do you rate your skill, and what do you think about your reputation for being nervous on stage?
Liquid`Zenio: Honestly, I don't like ZvP that much in practice either. I'm trying really hard to get over that. I think I'm very good at ZvT and ZvZ, but when I play at the GSL stage my games just don't go the way they do in practice. So I have an image of being bad at broadcast games, but I think I can go far if I get over those problems, and I'm trying very hard to solve them.
You're starting off this GSL season from the Code A RO48. Are you confident about getting into Code S again?
Liquid`Zenio: Yes, I've gained confidence as I've practiced lately, and I'm fully confident that I can get into Code S and go even further.
There's a lot of talk about Proleague switching to Starcraft II next year and the Starcraft: Brood War players switching over. How do you feel about that possibility, as someone who's played Starcraft II since the beta?
Liquid`Zenio: I think that the present Starcraft II gamers are all very good, and that Starcraft 1 gamers will catch up very quickly as well. I hope that it becomes an opportunity for ESPORTS to grow and develop.
You have some history with IdrA, what do you think of him? He will be returning to Korea soon, would you like to play him?
Liquid`Zenio: I think you ask because of my ceremony last year... I don't think of him badly personally, and I think he's a fun player. It would be fun to play him again.
He's welcome to come back to Korea, and though I wouldn't mind it myself, he probably doesn't want to play me; I am 6-0 against him.
Any other foreigners you are interested in? Anyone who impressed you, or someone you'd like to play against?
Liquid`Zenio: I'd really like to play against Chris again, I lost in a sort of unsatisfying way to him in the last GSL. And then he imitated my ceremony... I want to get my revenge.
Let's talk about some things outside of Starcraft. What are your hobbies?
Liquid`Zenio: I raid once a week in World of Warcraft. Besides that, I like going biking.
Any kind of music you enjoy? Favorite bands?
Liquid`Zenio: No particular genre, just Korean girl-groups. 2NE1 in particular.
Hell yeah, nice pickup, and very interested in the funny ceremonies ^^ + Show Spoiler +
Although with Haypro's recent return, I wonder if that's a tad too many zergs, be interesting to see how TL does in team leagues (acer as well I guess haha)
I am blown away and shocked by this announcement Anyway, GL to Zenio in Liquid :D
I have to say that liquid definitely has the best 'looking' announcements out of any team or website out there. The graphics are always so well done and really add a lot IMO.
Like many I already had this spoiled for me by someone who shall remain nameless :D Grats to Zenio tho! Great pickup for Liquid, I've been a fan of Zenio for a while now and am glad to see him goto a team as awesome as Liquid(not to knock oGs :D). Hope you do well in Code A bro!
Zenio seems like he would be the perfect fit into TL, I think with what TL brings out in all of their players will shine especially in Zenio and make him the best player on their roster.
The funniest thing I remember was that when Jos first came to the house, the first thing he did before introducing himself was to point at Hayder and call him “Chobo.”
We knew this since like 2 weeks ago when someone pointed out the picture on preview was actuly an edited picture of zenio, and then like a week ago artosis said zenio was joining liquid live on gsl :\
Hahahaha. About IdrA: "He's welcome to come back to Korea, and though I wouldn't mind it myself, he probably doesn't want to play me; I am 6-0 against him."
Zenio is probably one of my favorite zergs around. He has character & seems likable, and also is a pretty sick player. I love his ZvT... great pickup for TL.
Eventhough this was spoiled a few days ago, i don't care Awesome, great pickup, if he can get his nerves under control a little bit bitter he surely will be an unstoppable force
Nice. I hope TL and being more comfortable now can help him reach his potential. His games vs MVP were amazing, even though I was rooting for MVP at the time haha.
Congratulations to both parties! I actually didn't have the greatest image of him for no particular reason. But he seems to be very friendly and nice; looking forward to seeing more of him w/ the 'Liquid'-prefix.
On November 21 2011 12:25 zantomun wrote: I keep hearing Zenio has really good English, but I've never seen him speak it. Does anyone have any videos of him speaking it?
Speaking? I've got nothing for you at the moment, but written?
On November 21 2011 12:25 zantomun wrote: I keep hearing Zenio has really good English, but I've never seen him speak it. Does anyone have any videos of him speaking it?
Great news. Zenio's a really good player. Hopefully he can return to Code S where he belongs! Good luck Zenio, hoping to see you at MLG and so on next season!
On November 21 2011 12:33 KoDo wrote: what was the controversy between Zenio and EG?
he beat idra a couple of times and when huk beat him in gsl huk copied his post game celebration.
plus idra really really dislikes zenio at least in game.
i'm not sure but i remember this rivalry being largely fake.
i dont know how real or fake it is actually. only thing i ever saw was nasl playoffs where zenio messed with idra a bitl. i was just answering the question as to what the supposed controversy was although i agree that its probbably not a big deal.
Zenio was once one of the top 5 zergs in the world. I expect him to rejoin those ranks soon now that he's joined TeamLiquid. We will be your spirit bomb Zenio!
I knew Zenio was a stand up guy after this little incident at NASL.
I was sitting with darkforce while we were both waiting to be shuttled out of the hotel that everyone was staying at, just some small talk since I was just a spectator and didn't know darkforce's play well enough to talk in depth with him, but as Zenio and Squirtle were leaving they both came over and shook darkforce's hand. Apparently since I was sitting with darkforce I got a handshake from both of them, and when zenio shook my hand he looked me in the eye and said "gg". That's it.
I've always been a Zenio fan because of how long he could stay in Code S. I even made my 6th alt (Warlock) in WoW called "Ogszenio" but I didn't actually know he played WoW.
So many liquid'zergs. So many EGzergs. Zerg is a strong race at the moment (as indicated by MLG Providence). Have always been a fan of Zenio because of his longstanding career in SC2.
artosis, artosis, artosis... you leaked it and ruined the surprise. Well he is a good player- but i personally dont think he has shown a lot of potential in his gameplay- i hope he proves me wrong in today's games!! Zenio fighting!!
Even though artosis spilled the beans. This is a solid pickup
The Liquid Zerg Nation looks strong now with Ret being in form, Zenio and my favorite Hayder "HayprO" finally standing up!! and then our favorite manner bear Shetttttttttthuuuuuuuuuuuuu :D :D.. Dhinka Chika (this means I am excited )
On November 21 2011 12:56 Ashes wrote: Even though artosis spilled the beans. This is a solid pickup
The Liquid Zerg Nation looks strong now with Ret being in form, Zenio and my favorite Hayder "HayprO" finally standing up!! and then our favorite manner bear Shetttttttttthuuuuuuuuuuuuu :D :D.. Dhinka Chika (this means I am excited )
"Of course, we cannot ignore the fact that he has a reputation for being a player who gets nervous on the big stage. However, we believe that you will see the real Zenio soon enough. He is still young, and getting rid of those stage jitters will take time and experience. Liquid can provide him with both. If you give him time and stay with him during the process, he will surely reward your patience and support with championships. "
^ This is quite true. Perhaps exposure to more events (especially foreign ones) will prove to be helpful.
I'm really glad Haypro did so well in Providence, makes me all the more excited for Liquids future.
I really hope that he finds the ability within himslef to continue to stay in Code S, because with HuK on EG we have none (except sometimes potentially hero)
Liquid does such a good job with these things. So professional, so clean, never any bad feelings or doubt. Great read as well. Nazgul really knows how to expose a personality. SO pumped to see Zenio in action. TL HWAITING
I remember a game he played against Rainbow on Rainbow's stream where he almost won from a completely lost situation. Rainbow had killed all but a few drones with blue flame hellion harass and it looked like Zenio was dead. Then, somehow, Zenio came back with excellent mutalisk harass only to barely lose when he lost 8 broodlords to thors. This was on Xelnaga caverns and he played in a way i didn't think was possible. Really excited to see him join TL.
I think that Zenio will definitely do much better now that he is on TL and is allowed to choose his own comfortable practice environment. Congratulations to TL on the good pickup and to Zenio too for finding a new home.
Liquid is the foreign team that has the best overall collection of zergs currently. Other teams just have really strong players here and there. Sure, EG has IdrA and Millenium has Stephano, but Liquid has Ret, Sheth, HayprO (who was ridiculously good at Providence) and now Zenio.
Looking forward to another Zenio vs IdrA in the next EG vs Liquid clanwar. Zenio vs IdrA is the best ZvZ in the world (they both go Roach/Hydra/Infestor).
While oGs never questioned his motivation, they had to uphold their rule that players must live in the team-house.
Except Nada. I can't see how playing from home is going to help him. It's pretty much the opposite of what all the top players have been shifting towards. Well at least he'll be able to attend more tournaments outside of Korea.
Yes! Sure he isn't playing the greatest games at the moment and unfortunately fell down to Code A last time around, but I'm certain that joining Liquid (in Korea) is the absolute best thing that he could have done. Look at how HuK and Hero's careers have blossomed with Liquid if you need any proof.
Also, Zenio-IdrA Charity Grudgematch, Bo9, ZvZ till the end of time.
On November 21 2011 13:56 Hula wrote: Liquid is the foreign team that has the best overall collection of zergs currently. Other teams just have really strong players here and there. Sure, EG has IdrA and Millenium has Stephano, but Liquid has Ret, Sheth, HayprO (who was ridiculously good at Providence) and now Zenio.
Looking forward to another Zenio vs IdrA in the next EG vs Liquid clanwar. Zenio vs IdrA is the best ZvZ in the world (they both go Roach/Hydra/Infestor).
TLO has switched to Zerg now too, as far as I know.
I knew it! Ever since HuK left, they needed to pick up another IdrA-slayer! In all seriousness though, this is a nice pick up and if he did not like his previous practice environment, then he logically should be way better now. This should be interesting.
That's actually a REALLY good pick up for liquid. Also on a side note, congratulations to Team Liquid and Haypro for his outstanding MLG performance. It feels like Liquid is full of decent Zergs these days.
On November 21 2011 11:57 Diamond wrote: Worst kept secret ever !
Congrats to Liquid and Zenio!
Ya it definitely wasn't much of a secret after awhile, but to be honest it doesn't really matter much. They still got a lot of attention for his announcement.
woah cool!!! I love this guy he was so consistent in code S before he dropped. Best luck into getting back into code S and have fun with your new team.
Why TL picked him ? Zenio is one of those players which cant win anything for many months ... is not really media attractive. Beside he is not really adding anything extra to the team :/ except maybe more shade to whats going on in there .... Dissapointed ... Where is the old fashioned football way of picking bloodthirsty young shots who can actually bring loads of attention and payoff in future like HuK ! Get your head straight TL please dont set yourself behind again ....
Became a big fan after reading this article. Also of TheWind, very manly thing to do. TL always makes the smartest pickups in the long run. Congrats and gl to Zenio in a few hours! +points for exquisite English ^^
Godamit, it's like findind out the stash where your parents hid the christmas presents a week before and then try to look surprised when the time comes. We already knew it! xDD GL to Zenio!
On November 21 2011 14:30 bellykiller wrote: Why TL picked him ? Zenio is one of those players which cant win anything for many months ... is not really media attractive. Beside he is not really adding anything extra to the team :/ except maybe more shade to whats going on in there .... Dissapointed ... Where is the old fashioned football way of picking bloodthirsty young shots who can actually bring loads of attention and payoff in future like HuK ! Get your head straight TL please dont set yourself behind again ....
Oh god, I can't imagine how many handshake denying jokes the casters will make if he ever plays HuK. It'll be like waiting for the special tactics jokes with White Ra whenever he does something stupid. That said, team rivalry is fun to watch!
SWEET!!! I've always loved zenio and was really worried about him when he left the ogs tl training house. This is such an awesome solution, and now we'll get to see him at foreigner events. Too awesome!
On November 21 2011 14:30 bellykiller wrote: Why TL picked him ? Zenio is one of those players which cant win anything for many months ... is not really media attractive. Beside he is not really adding anything extra to the team :/ except maybe more shade to whats going on in there .... Dissapointed ... Where is the old fashioned football way of picking bloodthirsty young shots who can actually bring loads of attention and payoff in future like HuK ! Get your head straight TL please dont set yourself behind again ....
I really don't think you know what you are talking about.... We'll leave it at that.
Awesome, I've always been a fan of Zenio and I bet he'll fit will on the team. It was cool to see that the oGs coach wanted to help Zenio transition to another team after he left oGs.
First I was a little disappointed, given the fact that Zenio's results in the last GSL season were bad and his play in the up and down matches especially. But, if Liquid thinks he deserves a chance to show that he is very good not only in practice games, than I will give him a chance. Additionally, we have the good example of HerO. Has anyone really heard of HerO before he joined Liquid? No. And now HerO is out there and can possibly reach a big championship. I think it's a great oppurtunity for Zenio, to get over his nerves and show that he has good skills.
PS: Is there any chance of Zenio being one of the remaining invites for Dreamhack Winter 2011? Would really love to see him there!
Oh snap! OCD internets kinda leaked this one ahead of time but its still so exciting!! Hero was SUCH a good pickup and I'm thinking Zenio will be as well.
Teamliquid seems to have a thing for Koreans who are sick in practice but have trouble showing it. I guess picking up some gosu korean terran who just rolls everyone would be too boring.
On November 21 2011 15:21 Serinox wrote: First I was a little disappointed, given the fact that Zenio's results in the last GSL season were bad and his play in the up and down matches especially. But, if Liquid thinks he deserves a chance to show that he is very good not only in practice games, than I will give him a chance. Additionally, we have the good example of HerO. Has anyone really heard of HerO before he joined Liquid? No. And now HerO is out there and can possibly reach a big championship. I think it's a great oppurtunity for Zenio, to get over his nerves and show that he has good skills.
PS: Is there any chance of Zenio being one of the remaining invites for Dreamhack Winter 2011? Would really love to see him there!
Do you watch gstl? Hero was always their 2nd toss other than MC. Plus he qualified for code A before he joined TL.
was that at NASL? What's the story behind it again? I recall seeing that but can't remember what happened.
He just turned to greet/banter with his opponent (Sen, in the booth), and Geoff assumed he was being denied the handshake. But the community made the situation bigger, for the fun of it, and also Jinro in the article refers to that incident, when saying: "I really look forward to what kind of controversy Zenio can cause next time we play EG... " (edit: he probably refers to Zenio's history with Idra too, of course)
Awesome!!! I think we all saw it comin' thanks to a couple of spoilers, but still awesome to hear it officially I hope he does really well with his new team!
On November 21 2011 14:30 bellykiller wrote: Why TL picked him ? Zenio is one of those players which cant win anything for many months ... is not really media attractive. Beside he is not really adding anything extra to the team :/ except maybe more shade to whats going on in there .... Dissapointed ... Where is the old fashioned football way of picking bloodthirsty young shots who can actually bring loads of attention and payoff in future like HuK ! Get your head straight TL please dont set yourself behind again ....
On November 21 2011 14:50 Yamulo wrote: I really don't think you know what you are talking about.... We'll leave it at that
Really ? Show me any good results from Zenio for past 5 months ? Then i'll completly agree that I said something with no sense ! For past 5 months he was bouncing on the line between code S and A finally got himself demoted hardly and landed his ass without a sponsor :/ Now TL is trying to save him which most likely will never get him further then he was. There is actually no simple answer for why and how he got himself out of oGs just proves that he doesnt really care seriously about going back to the top :/ . IT seems like he looks for some comfy dinstant place to train and reset his mind. Besides it's funny how TL got HerO and Zenio on the team and couldnt afford to keep such valuable player as HuK on the team I cant believe that stinky EG offered that much :/
Is TL gonna be OGS disposal from now on? I know it's a partnership but I would like to see TL recruit Koreans outside of OGS. I just don't like the idea =/ just my opinion. Well I guess it's a good pick up and Zenio is a good player to be just kick out of OGS. Gratz to Zenio and TL Best of lucj
On November 21 2011 16:34 DarkRise wrote: Is TL gonna be OGS disposal from now on? I know it's a partnership but I would like to see TL recruit Koreans outside of OGS. I just don't like the idea =/ just my opinion. Well I guess it's a good pick up and Zenio is a good player to be just kick out of OGS. Gratz to Zenio and TL Best of lucj
But that's not how it is. Ogs had the training house rule, and Zenio doesn't feel comfortable and thinks he can achieve better when he stays home. As stated in the Article Gon approached TL if they couldn't pick him up. It's nothing in bad blood, it's amazing that both teams work that well / closely together and look out for each other and their players. As for Hero, TL was interested in him long before Koreans joined foreigners.
And if you're implying that they are second hand material, you're wrong. Hero shows better games / results in every tournament he participates, and Zenio was long one of the only Zergs in Code S. Both have huge potential, and i guess both would be a good addition to every Korean team.
Oh yeah, one more Korean on TL. I like it. Mmmh the high value on work ethic got me thinking ... Zenio maybe brings back some of the drive and passion HuK took away when he left? =/
Suddenly, 20000 new fans. I think Zenio is about ready for the Hero effect, liquid is going to put this guy in the SPOTLIGHT. Also, this makes the EG-TL fights a lot more fair :D
On November 21 2011 16:58 ObliviousNA wrote: Suddenly, 20000 new fans. I think Zenio is about ready for the Hero effect, liquid is going to put this guy in the SPOTLIGHT. Also, this makes the EG-TL fights a lot more fair :D
HerO earned his time in the spotlight. I have faith Zenio will eventually do the same.
I am very happy for TL and Zenio. I am always impressed with Liquid's presentation and decision making, this article is well made looks good and they really thought things through.
On November 21 2011 16:58 ObliviousNA wrote: Suddenly, 20000 new fans. I think Zenio is about ready for the Hero effect, liquid is going to put this guy in the SPOTLIGHT. Also, this makes the EG-TL fights a lot more fair :D
HerO earned his time in the spotlight. I have faith Zenio will eventually do the same.
For sure, and I wasn't suggesting otherwise! Merely suggesting that oGs is crowded with talent, and it's difficult for the "A-" listers to stand out in korea. A foreign team gave them the extra experience of being THE star player that the korean team couldn't provide (plus more funding for a variety of tournaments). I think this is what helped Hero stand out, and I think this will help zenio dominate the scene in the near future.
good job zenio, unlike your former team mates, you dedication didn't allow you to stand the terrible living conditions that are present in a korean team house, instead you'd rather practise alone in your comfortable home. I guess this qualifies you for the western scene and now you are a member of TL, who probably has the money to fly you around to all big international tournaments.
seriously, I don't agree how this was handled on the outside. If it was clear that he wanted to leave the team house and if it was clear that TL would pick him up, then they should've never publically announced that he leaves ogs because he couldn't stand the team house anymore. from my pov, it seems again (like Sheth) that they reward somebody for being less dedicated that the members around him. :-/
Anyways, just wanted to make clear that I have absolutely nothing against picking zenio up, he's a very good player and shows promise. just the way everything was handled bothers me.
Haha i knew it! Even tho you might not been playing to your full potential yet Zenio, I'm a 100% sure that Teamliquid will be the best choice you've ever made!
Great pickup, always seemed like a solid zerg player to me with so much potential. And it's really nice that Ogs and TL can have deals like this going, without any hard feelings involved, helping eachother out in various situations.
Reading Nazgul's piece makes me feel infinitely better about this signing. Zenio was a player i liked but seemed to get worse over time. If it is true that he can reach the top from his bedroom, then that's fantastic and i wish him and TL the best of luck!
Welcome Zenio. Im starting to get curious as to why TL only gets Koean players. Is it because theyre cheaper to keep than foreign players in comparision to their results? Id prefer more foreigners to be honest.
On November 21 2011 18:45 Robinsa wrote: Welcome Zenio. Im starting to get curious as to why TL only gets Koean players. Is it because theyre cheaper to keep than foreign players in comparision to their results? Id prefer more foreigners to be honest.
Because they are better? Also it would seem from the op that this wasn't a case of TL actively searching for a new player but rather something that worked itself out through the oGs relationship. I mean, even though there are foreigners that can beat Zenio, you'd be hard pressed to find many better zergs than him outside of Korea that are available (or just zergs in general for that matter)
Really interesting to read this -- I was never a particular fan of Zenio, but now that I know more about him (and he's on Liquid!) I'll definitely be cheering for him. Grats to Zenio and TL!
This is very exciting news :D I've always liked Zenios playstyle, and in his ups he is surely one of the most entertaining zerg players to watch - right up there with Dimaga, IdrA, Ret, NesTea and LosirA, in their respective ups of course
gl to zenio and liquid... but i realy dont like zenio - he doesnt get what it takes to win a big event.. sry. but this is my opinion, anyhow he is a top player. GL
On November 21 2011 20:30 blacksheepwall wrote: By the time I saw this he'd already 2-0'd his opponent in Code A. Welcome to Liquid, look forward to seeing more of him.
Fuck yeah! Ret, Sheth, Zenio, TLO (at least this week) and the Banjo, the Liquid Zerg lineup is so sick. I think you need a Korean Terran to complete the triangle of Koreans.
Good catch by Team Liquid regardless. Though I am getting a bit worried, TL keeps recruiting players but never lets any players go, how long can they keep this up?
On November 21 2011 20:30 blacksheepwall wrote: By the time I saw this he'd already 2-0'd his opponent in Code A. Welcome to Liquid, look forward to seeing more of him.
On November 21 2011 20:30 blacksheepwall wrote: By the time I saw this he'd already 2-0'd his opponent in Code A. Welcome to Liquid, look forward to seeing more of him.
On November 21 2011 20:30 blacksheepwall wrote: By the time I saw this he'd already 2-0'd his opponent in Code A. Welcome to Liquid, look forward to seeing more of him.
haha Zenio is such a badboy. Wonderful pickup by Liquid, it's so cool to see Liquid help him get back into the oGs/Liquid family.
Liquid's Zerg lineup is getting so ridiculously sick: Ret, Haypro, Sheth and now Zenio (plus TLO, I think!). Looking forward to checking out his stream.
On November 21 2011 21:43 Eufouria wrote: Fuck yeah! Ret, Sheth, Zenio, TLO (at least this week) and the Banjo, the Liquid Zerg lineup is so sick. I think you need a Korean Protoss to complete the circle of Koreans.
You've got over 2k posts, and say something like this? LOL do you even read the community news / watch the GSL or other tournaments?
Liquid`HerO (Korean Protoss)
anyways, grats for the pickup... I'd be way more hyped if they signed a player that wasn't from oGs though... seems like we keep getting their sloppy seconds. (no offense)
On November 21 2011 21:43 Eufouria wrote: Fuck yeah! Ret, Sheth, Zenio, TLO (at least this week) and the Banjo, the Liquid Zerg lineup is so sick. I think you need a Korean Protoss to complete the circle of Koreans.
You've got over 2k posts, and say something like this? LOL do you even read the community news / watch the GSL or other tournaments?
Liquid`HerO (Korean Protoss)
anyways, grats for the pickup... I'd be way more hyped if they signed a player that wasn't from oGs though... seems like we keep getting their sloppy seconds. (no offense)
On November 21 2011 21:43 Eufouria wrote: Fuck yeah! Ret, Sheth, Zenio, TLO (at least this week) and the Banjo, the Liquid Zerg lineup is so sick. I think you need a Korean Protoss to complete the circle of Koreans.
You've got over 2k posts, and say something like this? LOL do you even read the community news / watch the GSL or other tournaments?
Liquid`HerO (Korean Protoss)
anyways, grats for the pickup... I'd be way more hyped if they signed a player that wasn't from oGs though... seems like we keep getting their sloppy seconds. (no offense)
I meant Korean Terran obviously.
ok LOL i was amazed at that comment. simple miscommunication, sorry, didn't mean to offend or anything
I think my favorite part about this signing is that Liquid doesn't just sign people after they've won a tournament. There's real scouting and player evaluating involved.
The funniest thing I remember was that when Jos first came to the house, the first thing he did before introducing himself was to point at Hayder and call him “Chobo.”
I have a negative opinion on zenio due to what i've seen of him in the public and he always looks so angry and mean lol. But this interview raised an eyebrow, and im looking forward to having my perspective of him changed through my favourite team. GL to him and congrats to liquid <3
Look like a new gosu player in the TL roster! Always loved him, he looks like a very nice guy, look forward to see him play with the light blue shirt on!
On November 21 2011 22:25 Jibba wrote: I think my favorite part about this signing is that Liquid doesn't just sign people after they've won a tournament. There's real scouting and player evaluating involved.
I don't like it. I don't think he can get to the top by training at home, I'd much more like to see some less known player but with a great potential on the team. Well, let's just hope he proves me wrong. Good luck.
On November 21 2011 22:25 Jibba wrote: I think my favorite part about this signing is that Liquid doesn't just sign people after they've won a tournament. There's real scouting and player evaluating involved.
+1...who does that anyways =P
im not sure if you realy asked, but to answer your question im pretty sure EG does lol.
On November 21 2011 22:36 vrok wrote: But... Nada doesn't live in the team house either..? Liquid`NaDa please.
I read a while ago that they had to have an good reason to train outside the teamhouse, and NaDa is studying so that is good enough reason for them. Zenio just wanted to train outside the house because he didn't like it.
On November 21 2011 20:30 blacksheepwall wrote: By the time I saw this he'd already 2-0'd his opponent in Code A. Welcome to Liquid, look forward to seeing more of him.
On November 22 2011 00:49 Magnitoo wrote: 3-4 weeks till he starts streaming Why not sooner?
Anyways, great pickup. Good luck have fun! Lquid' Fighting!
He probably wants to take some time to adjust before he is comfortable streaming i guess.
It's not easy to start streaming "the right way". I prefer him taking his time to just then be sure of streaming with no problems that would affect his gameplay.
On November 21 2011 20:30 blacksheepwall wrote: By the time I saw this he'd already 2-0'd his opponent in Code A. Welcome to Liquid, look forward to seeing more of him.
Loved this guy since this happened:
Yeeeeah... I don't really like that kind of stuff, but I enjoy Zenio's solid style of play. Welcome, Zenio. Ret and Sheth are still my favourite Liquid zergs, tho! :D
On November 21 2011 18:45 Robinsa wrote: Welcome Zenio. Im starting to get curious as to why TL only gets Koean players. Is it because theyre cheaper to keep than foreign players in comparision to their results? Id prefer more foreigners to be honest.
It's probably because they share the oGs-TL house, and they want to maintain a presence at the house. Right now Jinro is the only guy they have there, if he were to leave, then TL would lose their partner house unless they had Korean team members.
That plus you have to train in Korea to become the best. If a promising foreigner without a team was willing to commit to a year+ of living in Korea, Liquid would probably pick him up. However, most foreigners have shown that they either don't want to stay in Korea long term or can't handle it. Liquid wants a good team, meaning they have to train in Korea.
On November 21 2011 18:45 Robinsa wrote: Welcome Zenio. Im starting to get curious as to why TL only gets Koean players. Is it because theyre cheaper to keep than foreign players in comparision to their results? Id prefer more foreigners to be honest.
It's probably because they share the oGs-TL house, and they want to maintain a presence at the house. Right now Jinro is the only guy they have there, if he were to leave, then TL would lose their partner house unless they had Korean team members.
That plus you have to train in Korea to become the best. If a promising foreigner without a team was willing to commit to a year+ of living in Korea, Liquid would probably pick him up. However, most foreigners have shown that they either don't want to stay in Korea long term or can't handle it. Liquid wants a good team, meaning they have to train in Korea.
jeesus korea taking over getting supported by a team that was once considered one of the best foreign teams now you can just forget liquid in any teamleague when their koreans dont want to play that day
On November 22 2011 01:48 sVnteen wrote: omg why zenio? didnt you find any foreigner?
jeesus korea taking over getting supported by a team that was once considered one of the best foreign teams now you can just forget liquid in any teamleague when their koreans dont want to play that day
On November 21 2011 18:45 Robinsa wrote: Welcome Zenio. Im starting to get curious as to why TL only gets Koean players. Is it because theyre cheaper to keep than foreign players in comparision to their results? Id prefer more foreigners to be honest.
On November 22 2011 01:48 sVnteen wrote: omg why zenio? didnt you find any foreigner?
jeesus korea taking over getting supported by a team that was once considered one of the best foreign teams now you can just forget liquid in any teamleague when their koreans dont want to play that day
What kind of thinking is that? It's like saying that FC Barcelona is not truly european club because Lionel Messi is from Argentina.
Everyone keeps bringing up the NASL thing where he didn't shake Incontrol's hand. Inc himself said it was just a misunderstanding and that Zenio did not mean to do that.
On November 22 2011 03:03 Crais wrote: Everyone keeps bringing up the NASL thing where he didn't shake Incontrol's hand. Inc himself said it was just a misunderstanding and that Zenio did not mean to do that.
Really enjoy watching Zenio play in the GSL and what a great zerg practice partner he will bring to TL roster, great job Nazgul on the pick up! Liquid Fighting!
Zenio seems to have nerve issues, but he will be going to many events now that he is with team liquid. I am looking forward to seeing a spectacular player emerge.
Not like it was unexpected, but wow this is great! I always liked Zenio and seeing him on Liquid will be great! If Hero is any indication of how Team Liquid can cultivate their players, then Zenio is sure to be amazing!
Nice, grats to all involved. Lot of pretty darn good players on Liquid now. I'm assuming they were kind of already practicing together due to the Liquid/oGs thing but here's to hoping games will be stepped up across the board. Can't wait!
On November 21 2011 20:30 blacksheepwall wrote: By the time I saw this he'd already 2-0'd his opponent in Code A. Welcome to Liquid, look forward to seeing more of him.
Loved this guy since this happened:
Too bad they cut out the best part which is Sen waving at him inside the booth
I am really happy about this. I'd only seen a few Zenio games previously and hadn't been particularly blown away at first, but he seemed like such a nice person and then I watched his replays, did some research and you may now call me a fan of Liquid`Zenio! I hadn't realized he had such problems with stage fright, and I do hope he manages to work this out. Also, great interview, it was awesome he tried to speak english to his fans! Looking forward to seeing Team Liquid face roll the other teams in the near future, especially with so many good Zergs and two really great Koreans!
For some odd reason he is the only korean zerg I have never rooted for. Maybe it was because of the IdrA thing back in the day, and I was already rooting for IdrA.
This, however, will make me reconsider. Good pickup by TL. I think he is a capable zerg, but he needs to be more innovative.
On November 23 2011 04:23 vitruvia wrote: i don't know if expanding the liquid team constantly is that good of an idea D: ... do you guys even have the fundings for this?
TL is still smaller than most teams out there with 8 players on the roster.
Very nice pick up by TL, congratulations. Though, now with TLO switching to zerg and Zenio joining, TL is very zerg heavy, I wonder if they have any plans to try and get more terran players.
On November 23 2011 05:18 Sufr1r wrote: Always thought that Zenio was a douchebag since what he did when he won over IdrA so long ago... but it seems like he's more serious than I thought.
I hope to see himself in more international tournaments.
That's all it takes for you to view someone as a douchebag? Seriously?
i remember the first interview when he was a wc3 player practicing broodwar in anticipation of sc2 release, who would have thought he'll become a liquid player
On November 21 2011 18:45 Robinsa wrote: Welcome Zenio. Im starting to get curious as to why TL only gets Koean players. Is it because theyre cheaper to keep than foreign players in comparision to their results? Id prefer more foreigners to be honest.
Because they're you know...better players?
Maybe. But me and some others cheer for Liquid because its a foreign team. I dont mind seeing a few Koreans but if they become to many Id rather cheer for another team. If I prefered strong Korean players Id start cheering for some GSL team. As I said though, I dont mind a few Koeans and I think its good to have them as practice partners for the team.
On November 21 2011 18:45 Robinsa wrote: Welcome Zenio. Im starting to get curious as to why TL only gets Koean players. Is it because theyre cheaper to keep than foreign players in comparision to their results? Id prefer more foreigners to be honest.
Because they're you know...better players?
Maybe. But me and some others cheer for Liquid because its a foreign team. I dont mind seeing a few Koreans but if they become to many Id rather cheer for another team. If I prefered strong Korean players Id start cheering for some GSL team. As I said though, I dont mind a few Koeans and I think its good to have them as practice partners for the team.
But foreign teams give Korean players a lot of exposure they wouldn't otherwise have. I root for Hero quite regularly, but before being picked up by TL, I never even heard of him.
On November 27 2011 20:32 layerz wrote: Would be sweet if you guys linked some nice replays or commentary videos of zenio so we can get a little taste of him.
On November 21 2011 18:45 Robinsa wrote: Welcome Zenio. Im starting to get curious as to why TL only gets Koean players. Is it because theyre cheaper to keep than foreign players in comparision to their results? Id prefer more foreigners to be honest.
Because they're you know...better players?
Maybe. But me and some others cheer for Liquid because its a foreign team. I dont mind seeing a few Koreans but if they become to many Id rather cheer for another team. If I prefered strong Korean players Id start cheering for some GSL team. As I said though, I dont mind a few Koeans and I think its good to have them as practice partners for the team.
I think whether they pick koreans or foreigners is not about their nationality, but rather if they fill the "person profile" standard TL seems to have (I don't work in TL or anything like that, so I can only speculate, but it seems to me they go for a very specific type of person), and in my case at least, keeping that profile is more important than the nationality. I root for TL because of what it is as a team and community, and as such I don't really care if they pick up foreigners or koreans.
EPT![[image loading]](http://wiki.teamliquid.net/starcraft/images2/0/07/JinroMLGRaleigh.png)
I really look forward to what kind of controversy Zenio can cause next time we play EG... ![[image loading]](http://wiki.teamliquid.net/starcraft/images2/thumb/8/84/HayprO.jpeg/494px-HayprO.jpeg)
Zenio is the hardest working player I've met. While I was in Korea I saw him play more than anyone else. The first thing I noticed about Zenio's play was that he would never, ever go into a fight unless he was sure he would win it. He had insane patience, and I was very impressed by it. I really liked watching him play, and sometimes it even hurt my own practice because I watched his games so much. He is very fast but also very precise which makes his multitasking great. It was very helpful for Ret and I to be able to talk to him about strategies.![[image loading]](http://www.teamliquid.net/staff/HawaiianPig/Zenio/zenio480.jpg)
!
@nazgul
![[image loading]](http://i.imgur.com/2Tset.gif)
![[image loading]](http://27.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_lo1pyjpoLr1qmr7t7o1_400.gif)
