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From SAW to NIP: ewjerkz Talks Fresh Start and Big Dreams

In the second installment of our interview series with NIP’s CS main team, we sit down with Michel "ewjerkz" Pinto as he embarks on a new chapter with NIP.

Michel "ewjerkz" Pinto is stepping into a new era of his career with NIP’s fresh CS2 roster. The Portuguese rifler brings raw firepower and fearless plays to the squad, ready to take on the challenge of climbing the ranks from scratch. We caught up with him to talk about his first impressions of the team, his goals for the year, and what fans can expect from this new lineup

NIP is a legendary Swedish org. How does it feel to join the team?
ewjerkz:
At first, I didn’t fully grasp how big NIP was. But now that I’m here, I can feel it. The structure, the people working behind the scenes, it’s huge. I’m really happy to be here, and I hope we can make it work. We’re going to give it our all.

What are you most excited about with this new roster?
ewjerkz:
I’m really excited to work with Snappi. He helped ENCE reach a really high level, and I know he can develop young players like us. I’m sure he’s going to make us better, and I’m ready to learn as much as I can.

You’re also teaming up with your former SAW teammate, arrozdoce. How does that feel?
ewjerkz:
I’m super happy to be here with arroz. After we left SAW, we were both looking for new opportunities, together or apart. But we’re good friends, and I love playing with him, so it worked out perfectly.

You’ll also be learning from Xizt, a legendary player turned coach. What do you hope to take from him?
ewjerkz:
I know he sees the game in a way that we don’t. He has so much experience, so I want to understand his perspective and learn all the little tricks that come with that.

NIP is starting with zero points in the new Valve system. How do you feel about the challenge ahead?
ewjerkz:
It’s really tough. The teams already in big tournaments have a huge advantage, but we just need to play a lot and grind our way there. And once we make it, we’re never leaving that spot.

Some people say the grind is a good thing for a new roster. Do you agree?
ewjerkz:
Yeah, in a way, it helps us build chemistry. We’ll play a ton of matches, figure out our strengths, and grow as a team. So, even though it’s hard, it might actually make us stronger in the long run.

How are you feeling about CS2 now that the game has evolved?
ewjerkz:
It’s better now. The movement was weird at first, but they’ve improved it a lot. There are still things to fix, but overall, it’s going in a good direction.

For fans who don’t know you yet, how would you describe yourself as a player?
ewjerkz:
I’m aggressive and not afraid to do whatever it takes to win the round. If something needs to be done, I’ll just do it. No fear.

What are your personal goals for 2025?
ewjerkz:
The first goal is to get into big tournaments, which will be tough with the new system. But we’ll grind, get there, and show that we can compete with the best teams.

If 2025 goes perfectly, where do you see NIP by the end of the year?
ewjerkz:
I’d love to qualify for a Major, maybe not the first one, but definitely the second. And not just qualify, but make a deep run. That’s the main goal for me.

What do you want to say to NIP fans excited to see you play?
ewjerkz:
I know everyone says this, but I’m going to work really hard. I want to get better, and I want the team to succeed. So, they can expect even more from me as the year goes on.

Michel's journey with NIP is just beginning, and while the road ahead is filled with challenges, his hunger to prove himself and this new roster is undeniable. The grind starts now, but if there’s one thing clear from talking to ewjerkz, it’s that he’s ready to face it head-on.

Ninjas, you might want to keep an eye on this guy.