âThe idea is to build something that lasts and that has a real impact on the ecosystem, not just another disposable project [...] We want to create a solid and healthy framework, where players have real conditions to perform, improve, and, above all, grow beyond Game Changers.â â Antonella Maria âAlooneaâ Tarantino
Though they had the chance to pick and choose from a wide pool of talented players, time was not on Aloonea and Yumeâs side this offseason. Thankfully, they managed to accomplish a lot in a short period, notably with the support of key staff members such as manager âShope Le Lionâ â a name well known in the womenâs scene.
âGiven the limited time available, we deliberately targeted players with solid team experience and an already strong level. We unfortunately couldnât afford to take a gamble on a rookie at this stage. That said, itâs clearly something weâd like to explore in the future.â
In addition to signing two players from Eternaâs titleholder squad, Yumeea rounded out its staff with former Eterna coach and "in real life" paramedic Frank âRdHausFoXâ Biondo, who had previously helped Chester Gaming defy expectations in 2024 by finishing in the top four of the Equal Esports Cup with a largely unknown roster. With this move, FoX will also reunite with former Solary AD Carry Fabienne âClefâ Kersting, whom he previously coached at Chester and Myth Esports in the Benelux region.
Meet the Game Changers
Currently sitting at 848 LP in Grandmaster, Slovakian multi-role talent and former Eterna AD Carry Nova "Sea" JenÄĂĄkovĂĄ will take on the role of toplaner for the squad, marking her third roleswap and a return to the position that led to her first breakthrough under Team BDS Valkyries. Having competed in both mid and bot lane this year, Sea has established herself as a stable and versatile player, capable of adapting to multiple playstyles. Among other options, the squad also considered former G2 Hel toplaner Mina "Zeniv" before ultimately selecting Sea.
âThe long-term objective is, of course, also to be able to carry this project into womenâs competitions. This first step is a real test for us: to see how we align, how the group functions, and how the project can grow in a coherent way.â
To round out the roster, Yumeea brought in former G2 Hel jungler-support duo Marta "Shiina" Mesas Garrido and Ăve "Colomblbl" Monvoisin, two players widely regarded as the best in the womenâs scene at their respective positions. They made a significant impact last year despite narrowly losing to Eterna in the LGC Grand Finals. Trailblazers in the scene, this new adventure will serve as a strong test for two of its most experienced players in recent years. The team also considered recently roleswapped rookie Mimi "Owpi" Effraimidi and former Galions Pearl support Gina "Lumi" Kircher for the lineup.
The LFL Invitational begins on January 21st, with Yumeea set to face teams from the LFL, the Nexus League, and influencer squads. Initially, Webedia had planned to invite three teams to the tournament through its Game Changers initiative. Unfortunately, with several of the sceneâs top teams backing out, the number of invited womenâs teams has been reduced to two: one for Yumeea and one for Vitality Rising Bees.
For now, the lineupâs immediate focus will be this tournament, with its future likely shaped by its performances. A strong showing could earn the team a long-term spot in the LFL for upcoming splits. Though Yumeea has expressed interest in competing in women-only events this year, the decision remains uncertain due to the lack of announcements about the 2026 structure and the recent departures of other teams from the womenâs scene.
Armand Luque is an interviewer and journalist with deep roots in the EMEA League of Legends scene. A veteran of the esports world, they hail from France and are best known for their work on Leaguepedi...
