With Season 25 of the ISFL upon us, it is time to introduce you all to the newest Yellowknife Wraiths, and let them tell you a little about themselves.
In the first round, with the second pick, Yellowknife drafted cornerback Dan Foster. Foster played college football at Northeastern University. Afterwards, he was drafted by the Portland Pythons. In his one season with the Pythons, Foster had 68 tackles, 2 interceptions, and 15 pass deflections. Standing 6 ft. 3 in., and weighing in at 205 lbs, the Wraiths hope Foster can step into the role as one of their starting corners right out of the gate.
1. Congratulations on being drafted into the ISFL! How did it feel hearing your name called on draft night?
It was unbelievable! Obviously you go into draft night hoping that you're going to be one of the first people called, but when it happens it's a lot of emotions all at once. Happiness, relief, a little bit of anxiety, Most of all though I was most focused on getting started and helping my new team.
2. Which team did you think would draft you? Were you surprised that Yellowknife was the team to pick you?
Going into the draft I had a good feeling about a few teams. Interviews went well, and I had seemed to develop a strong rapport with the General Managers and Scouts. However, teams all have different needs and their own plans for you, so you never really know how its going to go. However, I wasn't surprised when Yellowknife picked me. I had a great series of conversations with the GM's and we managed to hit it off. I told them what I wanted to do in the league and career and it seemed to align well with their goals for me. It was just a great fit.
3. Were you surprised with where you were picked in the draft? Do you think you should have been picked higher (or lower)?
Well let's just say there's no way I could or should have been picked higher! I thought I was a first round talent, but this was an incredibly stacked draft, particularly in the first two rounds. Just knowing you have the talent and the interview going well doesn't mean that you're the first priority for teams. I thought I had a really good shot at going #2 to the Wraiths, but hearing my name was still a little bit of a shock.
4. What are you most looking forward to this season?
Probably experiencing what the next level is actually like. Obviously I had a solid start to my career in the DSFL, but the ISFL is a whole different beast altogether. Players are faster, stronger, and more experienced, and I'm looking forward to seeing how I stack up against them on the field.
5. Do you feel any pressure to live up to the high standards of Wraiths team?
Oh there's definitely a few pressures I'm feeling. Obviously the Wraiths are one of the eminent franchises in the league. They were one of the original teams and have numerous championships in their history, not to mention their Ultimus just a few seasons ago. However there's also the pressure of being the #2 pick in the draft, so I know I have a lot of eyes on me as we start the season.
6. What are your first impressions of the Wraiths locker room? Have any players or coaches made a particular impression on you?
The Wraiths have a lot of talent in that locker room, I'll tell you that. Obviously a lot has been written about the departures they had after they won the Ultimus, but there's still some seriously impressive players who wear the black and blue. Quarterback Colby Jack is one of the best in the league, and Mervin Leonard is an absolute legend. It's surreal having a locker next to him, I'll tell you that.
7. Looking beyond this season, what do you hope to accomplish in your career?
The simple answer is that I want to be the best at my position in the ISFL, but there's steps to get there. First I want to be the best in my draft class, then the best on my team, and then the best in the league. If I take care of those objectives, I think the other stuff, like championships and awards, will fall into place. Regardless, I'm committed to bringing another championship to Yellowknife.
8. You have to take the stage for the rookie talent show in front of the locker room, what talent do you show off?
You spend a lot of time traveling if you're a football player. Cars, buses, trains, planes, even boats. I've taken everything you can think of to get to games, and that means a lot of down-time. It started as a joke, but I actually picked up juggling to give myself something to do when I'm on my way between games. I'm not very good, but that's why they play me to play football and not juggle.
9. Who would win in a fight between a baboon or a badger?
It's got to be a baboon right? Obviously badger's are tough little animals, but a baboon is a bit bigger and I think they can use tools. Doesn't matter if you have claws when the other guy has a rock.
10. When your first ISFL contract paycheck comes in what's the first purchase you're going to make? Something sensible or a fancy car?
Sensible for sure! Probably a house in Yellowknife. I plan on being here for a while, and I want to be comfortable while I play and get to know the people of Yellowknife.
With their second pick, number fifteenth of the draft, Yellowknife drafted tight end Djibutee McJimmerson. A native of Rwanda, McJimmerson played college football at the University of Miami (FL.) After completing college, McJimmerson was drafted by the Myrtle Beach Buccaneers. In his first season, he caught 23 passes for 162 yards and 3 touchdowns and had 23 pancakes. At 6 ft. 5 in. tall and 249 lbs., the Wraiths will keep McJimmerson in Myrtle Beach for at least one more season.
1. Congratulations on being drafted into the ISFL! How did it feel hearing your name called on draft night?
Stoked since it was YKW and them spooky bois.
2. Which team did you think would draft you? Were you surprised that Yellowknife was the team to pick you?
I didn't know if I would fall to YKW in the 2nd, so I had thought that possibly SJS as the last pick in the first might happen.
3. Were you surprised with where you were picked in the draft? Do you think you should have been picked higher (or lower)?
Nah, I had projected myself to be a high 2nd late first depending on team need. TEs don't get any love anyways despite being the best position.
4. What are you most looking forward to this season?
Making gifs for the Wraiths and winning an Ultimus for my MB Buccs.
5. Do you feel any pressure to live up to the high standards of Wraiths team?
A bit, but I think I can rise to the occasion.
6. What are your first impressions of the Wraiths locker room? Have any players or coaches made a particular impression on you?
Great LR, the coaches/WR guys are smart and funny. I've also had a good time with the veteran players in there and was lucky enough to be drafted with a few of my favorites from my S25 class.
7. Looking beyond this season, what do you hope to accomplish in your career?
Multiple Ultimus's.
8. You have to take the stage for the rookie talent show in front of the locker room, what talent do you show off?
My ability to juggle for 3 seconds.
9. Who would win in a fight between a baboon or a badger?
Depends on the variety of badger. Probably a baboon in a Bo7.
10. When your first ISFL contract pay check comes in what's the first purchase you're going to make? Something sensible or a fancy car?
A room full of Dotts.
With pick number thirty, their first of two in the third round, the Wraiths drafted running back Jameson Vermillion. Vermillion played college football at the United States Naval Academy. After playing there, Vermillion was drafted by the DSFL Minnesota Grey Ducks. In his first season on the Grey Ducks, Vermillion rushed for 1134 yards and 4 TDs and also served as their kick and punt returner. Vermillion is 5 ft. 8 in. tall and weighs 215 lbs, and will again serve as the Grey Ducks running back in the upcoming DSFL season.
1. Congratulations on being drafted into the ISFL! How did it feel hearing your name called on draft night?
Oh man, just like being drafted into the DSFL, I was extremely excited. The draft process and the wait is done in such a way to build perfect suspense and anxiety, hard to really put into words the full range of emotions going through your head but I can definitely say I was ecstatic.
2. Which team did you think would draft you? Were you surprised that Yellowknife was the team to pick you?
I was kind of thinking that the two expansion teams might pick me up, I was hands down the best running back in the draft, and they both only had one on the roster. I also thought Arizona might pick me up after losing a running back in expansion. I was super relieved when it was Yellowknife that picked me up, Yellowknife was where I wanted to go, I just didn't think I was going to get the opportunity, at the end i am super happy to go to a team that wants me regardless of if they actually have a need for my skill set right now. It's definitely more comforting knowing that they are looking at you as more than just words and numbers on paper.
3. Were you surprised with where you were picked in the draft? Do you think you should have been picked higher (or lower)?
I really thought I was going to go higher in the draft. In terms of talent and dedication I am up there with the best of them, a lot of people went ahead of me that definitely should not have, oh well i guess none of that matters, because I went where I wanted to go and Yellowknife got a hell of a steal in the third round.
4. What are you most looking forward to this season?
I'm going to be hanging out in the DSFL for another year, and a lot of people are already projecting me as an early mvp candidate, so tacking that award onto my resume would be what I am looking forward to, especially after getting snubbed for so many last year.
5. Do you feel any pressure to live up to the high standards of Wraiths team?
I don't know, I don't think so, but I am always giving it my all, if I ever fall short, it won't be because I didn't put in the work on my side, I'm always going to be grinding, what's some pressure if you always come prepared?
6. What are your first impressions of the Wraiths locker room? Have any players or coaches made a particular impression on you?
I already knew a few wraiths beforehand so I have been having a blast having some of my favorite people in the league in the same locker room. The gm's have been surprising, they are pretty cool dudes, you always get nervous when you really start to get acquainted with your new bosses but they've done everything they can to make me feel at home, and I am loving it!
7. Looking beyond this season, what do you hope to accomplish in your career?
Nothing short of a hall of fame career. If my name ain't written down in the record books I failed.
8. You have to take the stage for the rookie talent show in front of the locker room, what talent do you show off?
Don't know if I'd call it a talent, but I really love singing, I was in a screamo band as a vocalist in high school, never went anywhere but we had several half songs written, so I'd be singing and annoying everyone else.
9. Who would win in a fight between a baboon or a badger?
Baboon, it would bash the badger against a tree, also really big fucking teeth. Badgers are mean, but opposable thumbs beat small and vicious.
10. When your first ISFL contract pay check comes in what's the first purchase you're going to make? Something sensible or a fancy car?
I am not an extravagant guy, maybe a couple guns, maybe a hog hunting package for me and my dad. Go down to Texas and make a week out of it, it would be a blast! No pun intended!
With their second pick of the third round (#33), Yellowknife drafted linebacker Donald McBobby. McBobby, a Hartford Connecticut native, played college football for the University of Connecticut. Afterwards, McBobby played a short time for the Norfolk Seawolves after being claimed off of waivers, before being drafted by the Portland Pythons. While on the Pythons, McBobby had 85 tackles, including 2 tackles for loss, 6 sacks, 1 interception, 4 pass deflections, and 1 safety. At 6 ft. 4 in. and 255 lb., McBobby will again play as part of the Python’s linebacker corps this upcoming season.
1. Congratulations on being drafted into the ISFL! How did it feel hearing your name called on draft night?
It felt great! Definitely worth the wait. It’s always a blessing to hear your name called on draft day, and I’m glad I’m able to join a successful franchise in the Wraiths.
2. Which team did you think would draft you? Were you surprised that Yellowknife was the team to pick you?
I honestly had absolutely no idea who was going to draft me, I had a lot of scouting conversations and most teams seemed interested. I had a good conversation with the Wraiths as well so I wasn’t too surprised
3. Were you surprised with where you were picked in the draft? Do you think you should have been picked higher (or lower)?
I can’t say I didn’t want to go higher as I was #6 in TPE (lower now because I haven’t bought equipment yet) in the draft class and went 33 overall. That said I had heard that I wasn’t projected to go high so I wasn’t really surprised.
4. What are you most looking forward to this season?
Well as far as I know I’ll be staying in the minors for one, if not two more seasons so I’m expecting more of the same from my player in Portland. Hopefully we’ll be able to compete for a championship there before I get called up.
5. Do you feel any pressure to live up to the high standards of Wraiths team?
Yeah, somewhat. A large part of whether a player succeeds is out of your control though, all you can do is max earn and hope the sim gods like you. As long as McBobby can be a productive asset for the Wraiths I’ll be happy
6. What are your first impressions of the Wraiths locker room? Have any players or coaches made a particular impression on you?
I’ve enjoyed the Wraiths locker room so far, it’s been a completely positive experience. Our GMs have been awesome to me. I came in the same draft class as my teammate from Portland, Arkz, and he’s always active in the locker room and fun to be around, so I’m glad we’ll be able to be on the same defense for years to come
7. Looking beyond this season, what do you hope to accomplish in your career?
Just to be on a team that can compete for championships. I don’t really set goals for awards or anything, if those come that’s just an added bonus.
8. You have to take the stage for the rookie talent show in front of the locker room, what talent do you show off?
McBobby is secretly a very talented chef, and he’d stun the other rookies with his immaculate baking skills, which is his specialty.
9. Who would win in a fight between a baboon or a badger?
The badger would be a feisty competitor, but ultimately it’d probably be overcome by the sheer size of the baboon. Also, I like baboons.
10. When your first ISFL contract pay check comes in what's the first purchase you're going to make? Something sensible or a fancy car?
McBobby’s getting himself a nice ass car at the end of his first season!
That’s all the time we have for now. Thanks for reading, and stay tuned for the next set of interviews with the rest of the Wraith’s S25 draft class!
2868 words, please split payout between users ZootTX, arkz, Vainknight13, and bjbren. (UberBJ declined a payout)
In the first round, with the second pick, Yellowknife drafted cornerback Dan Foster. Foster played college football at Northeastern University. Afterwards, he was drafted by the Portland Pythons. In his one season with the Pythons, Foster had 68 tackles, 2 interceptions, and 15 pass deflections. Standing 6 ft. 3 in., and weighing in at 205 lbs, the Wraiths hope Foster can step into the role as one of their starting corners right out of the gate.
1. Congratulations on being drafted into the ISFL! How did it feel hearing your name called on draft night?
It was unbelievable! Obviously you go into draft night hoping that you're going to be one of the first people called, but when it happens it's a lot of emotions all at once. Happiness, relief, a little bit of anxiety, Most of all though I was most focused on getting started and helping my new team.
2. Which team did you think would draft you? Were you surprised that Yellowknife was the team to pick you?
Going into the draft I had a good feeling about a few teams. Interviews went well, and I had seemed to develop a strong rapport with the General Managers and Scouts. However, teams all have different needs and their own plans for you, so you never really know how its going to go. However, I wasn't surprised when Yellowknife picked me. I had a great series of conversations with the GM's and we managed to hit it off. I told them what I wanted to do in the league and career and it seemed to align well with their goals for me. It was just a great fit.
3. Were you surprised with where you were picked in the draft? Do you think you should have been picked higher (or lower)?
Well let's just say there's no way I could or should have been picked higher! I thought I was a first round talent, but this was an incredibly stacked draft, particularly in the first two rounds. Just knowing you have the talent and the interview going well doesn't mean that you're the first priority for teams. I thought I had a really good shot at going #2 to the Wraiths, but hearing my name was still a little bit of a shock.
4. What are you most looking forward to this season?
Probably experiencing what the next level is actually like. Obviously I had a solid start to my career in the DSFL, but the ISFL is a whole different beast altogether. Players are faster, stronger, and more experienced, and I'm looking forward to seeing how I stack up against them on the field.
5. Do you feel any pressure to live up to the high standards of Wraiths team?
Oh there's definitely a few pressures I'm feeling. Obviously the Wraiths are one of the eminent franchises in the league. They were one of the original teams and have numerous championships in their history, not to mention their Ultimus just a few seasons ago. However there's also the pressure of being the #2 pick in the draft, so I know I have a lot of eyes on me as we start the season.
6. What are your first impressions of the Wraiths locker room? Have any players or coaches made a particular impression on you?
The Wraiths have a lot of talent in that locker room, I'll tell you that. Obviously a lot has been written about the departures they had after they won the Ultimus, but there's still some seriously impressive players who wear the black and blue. Quarterback Colby Jack is one of the best in the league, and Mervin Leonard is an absolute legend. It's surreal having a locker next to him, I'll tell you that.
7. Looking beyond this season, what do you hope to accomplish in your career?
The simple answer is that I want to be the best at my position in the ISFL, but there's steps to get there. First I want to be the best in my draft class, then the best on my team, and then the best in the league. If I take care of those objectives, I think the other stuff, like championships and awards, will fall into place. Regardless, I'm committed to bringing another championship to Yellowknife.
8. You have to take the stage for the rookie talent show in front of the locker room, what talent do you show off?
You spend a lot of time traveling if you're a football player. Cars, buses, trains, planes, even boats. I've taken everything you can think of to get to games, and that means a lot of down-time. It started as a joke, but I actually picked up juggling to give myself something to do when I'm on my way between games. I'm not very good, but that's why they play me to play football and not juggle.
9. Who would win in a fight between a baboon or a badger?
It's got to be a baboon right? Obviously badger's are tough little animals, but a baboon is a bit bigger and I think they can use tools. Doesn't matter if you have claws when the other guy has a rock.
10. When your first ISFL contract paycheck comes in what's the first purchase you're going to make? Something sensible or a fancy car?
Sensible for sure! Probably a house in Yellowknife. I plan on being here for a while, and I want to be comfortable while I play and get to know the people of Yellowknife.
With their second pick, number fifteenth of the draft, Yellowknife drafted tight end Djibutee McJimmerson. A native of Rwanda, McJimmerson played college football at the University of Miami (FL.) After completing college, McJimmerson was drafted by the Myrtle Beach Buccaneers. In his first season, he caught 23 passes for 162 yards and 3 touchdowns and had 23 pancakes. At 6 ft. 5 in. tall and 249 lbs., the Wraiths will keep McJimmerson in Myrtle Beach for at least one more season.
1. Congratulations on being drafted into the ISFL! How did it feel hearing your name called on draft night?
Stoked since it was YKW and them spooky bois.
2. Which team did you think would draft you? Were you surprised that Yellowknife was the team to pick you?
I didn't know if I would fall to YKW in the 2nd, so I had thought that possibly SJS as the last pick in the first might happen.
3. Were you surprised with where you were picked in the draft? Do you think you should have been picked higher (or lower)?
Nah, I had projected myself to be a high 2nd late first depending on team need. TEs don't get any love anyways despite being the best position.
4. What are you most looking forward to this season?
Making gifs for the Wraiths and winning an Ultimus for my MB Buccs.
5. Do you feel any pressure to live up to the high standards of Wraiths team?
A bit, but I think I can rise to the occasion.
6. What are your first impressions of the Wraiths locker room? Have any players or coaches made a particular impression on you?
Great LR, the coaches/WR guys are smart and funny. I've also had a good time with the veteran players in there and was lucky enough to be drafted with a few of my favorites from my S25 class.
7. Looking beyond this season, what do you hope to accomplish in your career?
Multiple Ultimus's.
8. You have to take the stage for the rookie talent show in front of the locker room, what talent do you show off?
My ability to juggle for 3 seconds.
9. Who would win in a fight between a baboon or a badger?
Depends on the variety of badger. Probably a baboon in a Bo7.
10. When your first ISFL contract pay check comes in what's the first purchase you're going to make? Something sensible or a fancy car?
A room full of Dotts.
With pick number thirty, their first of two in the third round, the Wraiths drafted running back Jameson Vermillion. Vermillion played college football at the United States Naval Academy. After playing there, Vermillion was drafted by the DSFL Minnesota Grey Ducks. In his first season on the Grey Ducks, Vermillion rushed for 1134 yards and 4 TDs and also served as their kick and punt returner. Vermillion is 5 ft. 8 in. tall and weighs 215 lbs, and will again serve as the Grey Ducks running back in the upcoming DSFL season.
1. Congratulations on being drafted into the ISFL! How did it feel hearing your name called on draft night?
Oh man, just like being drafted into the DSFL, I was extremely excited. The draft process and the wait is done in such a way to build perfect suspense and anxiety, hard to really put into words the full range of emotions going through your head but I can definitely say I was ecstatic.
2. Which team did you think would draft you? Were you surprised that Yellowknife was the team to pick you?
I was kind of thinking that the two expansion teams might pick me up, I was hands down the best running back in the draft, and they both only had one on the roster. I also thought Arizona might pick me up after losing a running back in expansion. I was super relieved when it was Yellowknife that picked me up, Yellowknife was where I wanted to go, I just didn't think I was going to get the opportunity, at the end i am super happy to go to a team that wants me regardless of if they actually have a need for my skill set right now. It's definitely more comforting knowing that they are looking at you as more than just words and numbers on paper.
3. Were you surprised with where you were picked in the draft? Do you think you should have been picked higher (or lower)?
I really thought I was going to go higher in the draft. In terms of talent and dedication I am up there with the best of them, a lot of people went ahead of me that definitely should not have, oh well i guess none of that matters, because I went where I wanted to go and Yellowknife got a hell of a steal in the third round.
4. What are you most looking forward to this season?
I'm going to be hanging out in the DSFL for another year, and a lot of people are already projecting me as an early mvp candidate, so tacking that award onto my resume would be what I am looking forward to, especially after getting snubbed for so many last year.
5. Do you feel any pressure to live up to the high standards of Wraiths team?
I don't know, I don't think so, but I am always giving it my all, if I ever fall short, it won't be because I didn't put in the work on my side, I'm always going to be grinding, what's some pressure if you always come prepared?
6. What are your first impressions of the Wraiths locker room? Have any players or coaches made a particular impression on you?
I already knew a few wraiths beforehand so I have been having a blast having some of my favorite people in the league in the same locker room. The gm's have been surprising, they are pretty cool dudes, you always get nervous when you really start to get acquainted with your new bosses but they've done everything they can to make me feel at home, and I am loving it!
7. Looking beyond this season, what do you hope to accomplish in your career?
Nothing short of a hall of fame career. If my name ain't written down in the record books I failed.
8. You have to take the stage for the rookie talent show in front of the locker room, what talent do you show off?
Don't know if I'd call it a talent, but I really love singing, I was in a screamo band as a vocalist in high school, never went anywhere but we had several half songs written, so I'd be singing and annoying everyone else.
9. Who would win in a fight between a baboon or a badger?
Baboon, it would bash the badger against a tree, also really big fucking teeth. Badgers are mean, but opposable thumbs beat small and vicious.
10. When your first ISFL contract pay check comes in what's the first purchase you're going to make? Something sensible or a fancy car?
I am not an extravagant guy, maybe a couple guns, maybe a hog hunting package for me and my dad. Go down to Texas and make a week out of it, it would be a blast! No pun intended!
With their second pick of the third round (#33), Yellowknife drafted linebacker Donald McBobby. McBobby, a Hartford Connecticut native, played college football for the University of Connecticut. Afterwards, McBobby played a short time for the Norfolk Seawolves after being claimed off of waivers, before being drafted by the Portland Pythons. While on the Pythons, McBobby had 85 tackles, including 2 tackles for loss, 6 sacks, 1 interception, 4 pass deflections, and 1 safety. At 6 ft. 4 in. and 255 lb., McBobby will again play as part of the Python’s linebacker corps this upcoming season.
1. Congratulations on being drafted into the ISFL! How did it feel hearing your name called on draft night?
It felt great! Definitely worth the wait. It’s always a blessing to hear your name called on draft day, and I’m glad I’m able to join a successful franchise in the Wraiths.
2. Which team did you think would draft you? Were you surprised that Yellowknife was the team to pick you?
I honestly had absolutely no idea who was going to draft me, I had a lot of scouting conversations and most teams seemed interested. I had a good conversation with the Wraiths as well so I wasn’t too surprised
3. Were you surprised with where you were picked in the draft? Do you think you should have been picked higher (or lower)?
I can’t say I didn’t want to go higher as I was #6 in TPE (lower now because I haven’t bought equipment yet) in the draft class and went 33 overall. That said I had heard that I wasn’t projected to go high so I wasn’t really surprised.
4. What are you most looking forward to this season?
Well as far as I know I’ll be staying in the minors for one, if not two more seasons so I’m expecting more of the same from my player in Portland. Hopefully we’ll be able to compete for a championship there before I get called up.
5. Do you feel any pressure to live up to the high standards of Wraiths team?
Yeah, somewhat. A large part of whether a player succeeds is out of your control though, all you can do is max earn and hope the sim gods like you. As long as McBobby can be a productive asset for the Wraiths I’ll be happy
6. What are your first impressions of the Wraiths locker room? Have any players or coaches made a particular impression on you?
I’ve enjoyed the Wraiths locker room so far, it’s been a completely positive experience. Our GMs have been awesome to me. I came in the same draft class as my teammate from Portland, Arkz, and he’s always active in the locker room and fun to be around, so I’m glad we’ll be able to be on the same defense for years to come
7. Looking beyond this season, what do you hope to accomplish in your career?
Just to be on a team that can compete for championships. I don’t really set goals for awards or anything, if those come that’s just an added bonus.
8. You have to take the stage for the rookie talent show in front of the locker room, what talent do you show off?
McBobby is secretly a very talented chef, and he’d stun the other rookies with his immaculate baking skills, which is his specialty.
9. Who would win in a fight between a baboon or a badger?
The badger would be a feisty competitor, but ultimately it’d probably be overcome by the sheer size of the baboon. Also, I like baboons.
10. When your first ISFL contract pay check comes in what's the first purchase you're going to make? Something sensible or a fancy car?
McBobby’s getting himself a nice ass car at the end of his first season!
That’s all the time we have for now. Thanks for reading, and stay tuned for the next set of interviews with the rest of the Wraith’s S25 draft class!
2868 words, please split payout between users ZootTX, arkz, Vainknight13, and bjbren. (UberBJ declined a payout)
![[Image: zoottx.gif]](https://sig.grumpybumpers.com/host/zoottx.gif)
