Vertex Esports Club, a former participant in Oceania's League of Legends Championship (LCO), has come under fire as allegations of unpaid dues and unusual requests for jersey returns surface. The controversy, voiced by former assistant coach Jake “Hysterics” Osypenko, sheds light on the struggles faced by some staff and players associated with the organization.

In a detailed expose posted on social media, Hysterics disclosed that despite his receipt of payment, numerous others await compensation, six months post the conclusion of LCO Split Two. Screenshots shared by Hysterics unveil exchanges with Vertex owner Jamie “JDU” Uncles, accusing him of evading questions for an extended period. The controversy escalated as Uncles allegedly insisted on the return of Vertex’s League team jerseys, as per contractual obligations.

Repeated requests for updates on payment timelines remained unanswered, prompting frustration among the team members. According to Hysterics, promises of payment were deferred from October to December and then to January, leading to a depletion of patience within the affected staff.

Gian “styled” Leon, the head of Vertex’s coaching staff, revealed outstanding dues amounting to approximately $15,000 AUD. Another team member, Ou “Medica” Bang-Ying, claimed pending bonuses and unpaid amounts ranging from $2,000 to $3,500. Despite attempts to seek intervention from LCO, the league asserted limited recourse, stating Vertex's withdrawal from the league hinders their ability to intervene effectively.

The situation escalated further when Dot Esports uncovered similar grievances from Vertex’s Counter-Strike squad, impacting them before the org's January departure. Vertex owner JDU has not responded to inquiries at the time of publishing, leaving the allegations unanswered.

Notably, Vertex replaced PEACE in the LCO, who left the league amid controversy last February for breaching agreements and failing to pay players and staff. PEACE's departure left the league with seven teams in Split One before Vertex's entry in May.

The LCO, in a statement, expressed difficulty in assisting affected players and staff, citing unfulfilled obligations by Vertex. The league warned of potential exclusion for Vertex in the 2024 season unless rectification discussions take place.

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This incident echoes a recurring problem in the Oceanic esports scene, reminiscent of past cases involving Team Immunity and Tainted Minds. Team Immunity faced a two-year OPL ban in 2015 for unpaid player dues, while Tainted Minds received a fine and probation in 2017. PEACE, too, had outstanding payments reported months before their removal from the LCO.