Dear ladies and gentlemen, future NSFL players,
as someone who will proudly hold up a NSFL jersey and smile into a million cameras in a couple of days, I wanted to know more about the people in charge and the teams I could potentially end up on. I was inspired by mithrandir‘s great "Rookie Guide to the NSFL Teams" but wanted a bit more background info to get a better feel for the teams and their GMs.
I want to say a big thank you to all the GMs taking the time to answer my questionnaire in this stressful times with the expansion draft and the NSFL draft. I learned a lot about every single team and their outlook on football and I hope you will, too.
Arizona Outlaws
represented by Unicorn
1. Can you give us a short introduction of your team and its history?
The Outlaws are infamous for the multi scandal that took place during the early seasons of the league. Right now we are the youngest team the NSFL with the most draft picks in the S22 draft. Our QB will be hitting his prime soon and with many other key pieces on offense and defense reaching high TPE levels soon, the Outlaws look to be hitting their window in the upcoming seasons.
2. Please tell us more about yourself and your co-GM. What makes you capable of leading a team?
I've been in the league since Season 3, so I have a lot of experience in the league and was the co-GM of the Hawks back in S13. My co-gm Dankoa has a lot of experience of GMing in other leagues.
3. Why should a player want to be drafted by your team?
We're a young team that has a plan. We’re a chilled out but driven team with a very bright future. Come be a part of something that’s going to be very special, very soon
4. Does your team have a certain philosophy? Do you prefer to develop young players or sign established older players?
My current philosophy is switching the team to all younger players, which you can see by the trades I've made since taking over as GM.
5. What are your short-term and long-term plans for the team?
We've pretty much made all the moves we needed to make for both the short and long term future. We have the most draft picks for the S22 draft, which will put us in a great position to compete in the future.
6. What do you look for in your prospects?
I look for prospects that obviously have been earning a lot of TPE, but also prospects that have a source of income outside of contracts. Those are the two most important things for me.
7. Anything else you would like to say?
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My personal opinion: The Outlaws seem confident they can turn the tide and be a competitor with a core of young players. It's up to you if you believe you're the missing part of their puzzle with the core they already have or if they won't reach their potential.
Austin Copperheads
represented by Mooty99
1. Can you give us a short introduction of your team and its history?
Austin are a relatively new team, we joined during the last expansion along with Chicago, with our first season being season 16. From that point on we slowly built our team carefully. This culminated in us winning the Ultimus last year, which was only Austin's 5th season in the NSFL.
2. Please tell us more about yourself and your co-GM. What makes you capable of leading a team?
Joe is the GM and I am his co-GM. Joe founded Austin with AdamS who was the GM up until last season and so helped master mind Austin's rise from new team to Ultimus winners. Joe is a very experienced NSFL member and sim league GM, his last player was put in the hall of fame this season. Along with Austin Joe currently GMs teams in both the SHL and PBE so is about experienced as you can be.
I became Joe's co-GM at the end of last season after AdamS stood down. This move had been planned for most of last season with AdamS doing a very extensive handover throughout last season with me. I have been a member of Austin's war room for a number of seasons and also GM in the GRSL.
Joe and I are both personable and intelligent and work extremely well together. You will not see rash or stupid decisions coming out of Austin. Austin have an excellent war room that we can lean on and talk through decisions with, this war room includes an ex-commissioner, ex-GMs and current DSFL GMs.
3. Why should a player want to be drafted by your team?
Austin are a really friendly, fun and relaxed team with a great lockeroom environment. We have carefully cultivated this lockeroom culture and prize personality over TPE when drafting. We have plenty of experienced players who are always happy to help rookies and new players.
4. Does your team have a certain philosophy? Do you prefer to develop young players or sign established older players?
Austin's philosophy can been see on our victory banner on the site where it says "we build houses". Austin always looks to bring in and develop new players, we build the team for long term success rather than short team gain. Austin look for players who will both fit and add to the lockeroom and the team as a whole not just TPE.
5. What are your short-term and long-term plans for the team?
The short term plans for Austin are quite simple, we have a top quarterback and a very strong backbone of players, we are able and plan to compete for the Ultimus for the next few seasons.
Long term is what Austin is all about, while we know we will be competing over the next few seasons we always have one eye on the future. We draft players with this in mind and hope to remain a competitive team continuously using this strategy. For examples plans for our quarterback to be replaced are already set out despite it not being needed for the next 4 to 5 seasons.
6. What do you look for in your prospects?
We look for personality, fit within our lockeroom and what someone brings to the team as a whole not just on the field. We try and thoroughly scout every active player and have long discussions in our war room. This has been our philosophy since the inception of Austin and it continues to be this way looking into the S22 draft and beyond.
7. Anything else you would like to say?
Nothing more than to wish every S22 prospect the very best of luck in this upcoming draft. They are a really special group not just due to their size but also how active and friendly they all are. It is amazing to see so many of them creating great media and taking up jobs around the league with such relish. So no matter where you go, you are all great!
My personal opinion: The Copperheads have shown they have the potential to win it all with their Ultimus trophy after a short time in the league. But it's always harder to repeat success.
Baltimore Hawks
represented by Huskies311
1. Can you give us a short introduction of your team and its history?
Baltimore is an original team from the start of the league, and we’re also the most successful team in the NSFC. We have two Ultimus, and the most Hall of Famers of any team.
2. Please tell us more about yourself and your co-GM. What makes you capable of leading a team?
Duilio and I have a lot of GMing experience in both the NSFL and DSFL. Neither of us has ever missed a playoffs, and I also have an Ultimini win GMing Portland. We also think we can handle players pretty well, as Baltimore hasn’t been the center of any drama since we’ve been around it.
3. Why should a player want to be drafted by your team?
Baltimore offers a chill place just to enjoy the league and compete consistently. We have a solid history.
4. Does your team have a certain philosophy? Do you prefer to develop young players or sign established older players?
Duilio and I are really adaptable. Historically, Baltimore has had a high-powered offense but there’s no shortage of good defensive players to play for Baltimore. In terms of player age, right now we are looking for youth. I think we will have another long championship window likely starting in S23.
5. What are your short-term and long-term plans for the team?
Short term, I’d love to win the Ultimus this season. Next season will be a short retool as we’ll have a super young QB. But after that we’ll be back to competing.
6. What do you look for in your prospects?
The first thing is activity, both on Discord and the forum. You don’t have to be a max earner, but earning consistently is important. Of course, we also usually get non-controversial players but won’t rule out anyone.
7. Anything else you would like to say?
I honestly can’t wait to bring in the new generation of Hawks in the next draft! Also, if anyone ever needs anyone to talk to, even if it’s not league related, please reach out. I love talking to people and I know duilio does too.
My personal opinion: With Baltimore's record of their player making it into the Hall of Fame this might be the top destination for people who care a lot about their stats and personal accomplishments.
Chicago Butchers
represented by BayleyIsland
1. Can you give us a short introduction of your team and its history?
The Chicago Butchers were founded by Oles and Muford just about one year ago on May 1st of 2019, so we are coming up on the one year anniversary. It's a team that went through some tough patches as we have seen recently. We were an expansion team, and we are the only team currently to not appear in a Championship game. That will absolutely be changing with Muford and I.
2. Please tell us more about yourself and your co-GM. What makes you capable of leading a team?
Muford and I have experience in GMing before. I was the GM of the NOLA Second Line and Muford was CO-GM in San Jose and Chicago a few seasons back. We have experience in sim leagues as well as here to get this team to the next level. We have both created Hall of Fame players as Bayley and (SHARPEI SHOULD BE HERE IF SOMEONE VOTED LIKE THEY SHOULD HAVE) were great players. We have the experience and sim familiarity to help people build players and put together a team to succeed.
3. Why should a player want to be drafted by your team?
Chicago is looking for stability and promise. We are looking to bring in players that will believe in us and give us a chance to do what we will do here. We will help you build the player that you want to build and put that into our gameplan. We are going to be transforming the locker room and the culture around the team. If you want to be part of this rebuild and transformation into a team that everyone wants to be on, this is your team. We want players that believe in us and want to be here.
4. Does your team have a certain philosophy? Do you prefer to develop young players or sign established older players?
We are looking to do a little of both. We want to develop players from this draft as well as surround them with established players who fit into the culture. We are not about trying to wait on a rebuild. We want to be aggressive and find people who believe in what we are trying to build. We are looking towards younger, but we have some needs to fill, so we will be looking at all routes. If you want to be in Chicago, we would love to bring you in. We want to win as soon as we can and establish a culture that people want to also be here.
5. What are your short-term and long-term plans for the team?
We have the short-term goal of filling some needs that we have as well as bring in players in older positions. We look at people like Rose Jenkins that is nearing retirement, so we need to bring in the next Quarterback. We also have needs in the secondary as well as at other positions. Immediately, we are looking for players to help Rose win this season. We could use another WR to help in our passing game. We are going to look towards now and the future. We don't have a 1st round pick next season, so it'll be about bringing in players using our picks this year and any capital that we have available. We need to retool some of the positions that are getting older, but we have a good core of young players on defense to really build around.
6. What do you look for in your prospects?
I look for a few different things, I did do an article not too long ago on what I really look for, but the first would be demeanor around the forum and on discord. I want someone who is really cool to get along with and will have no issues with anyone. I do want activity and someone who has that team-first mentality. I am not talking about not wanting to switch positions, it's the other things that means more to me. You may want to stay at a certain position, which we want you to stay there. We will always bend us around you because that is what keeps you interested and liking the league. Those two would be the top two, but there are other stuff that we won't really go into for competitive advantage.
7. Anything else you would like to say?
Not too much, for everyone saying that they do not want to go to Chicago, we will remember that when we are winning. Believe us and believe in Chicago.
My personal opinion: Chicago shows a bit of the "us against the world" attitude. Let's hope it pays off and they will prove all the doubters and haters wrong.
Colorado Yeti
represented by Frick_Nasty
1. Can you give us a short introduction of your team and its history?
Well I am Frick_Nasty of the Colorado Yeti. I have the honor of GMing this lovely team. Colorado is the only original team to have yet win an Ultimus whether due to poor past management or bad sim luck. I do believe our first is soon to come.
2. Please tell us more about yourself and your co-GM. What makes you capable of leading a team?
I have been in the league over a year now, woelkers is s17 so we're fairly young group. Woelkers has won two Ultiminis with the Minnesota ducks before getting promoted to the big leagues. I also am a GM in the minors in PBE so leading a team isn't new to me. I am always available for help build advice you name it. I pride myself on retaining and acquiring the right players to reach and win the franchise first Ultimus.
3. Why should a player want to be drafted by your team?
Yeti is a family, we care about everyone on our team beyond the player. If we only cared about the sim we wouldn't be a happy group. So it comes down to if you want lifelong friends and people who don't stir up drama Colorado is the place to be.
4. Does your team have a certain philosophy? Do you prefer to develop young players or sign established older players?
Yeti noises, a term for celebrating and crying. Through the bad times we appreciate the good times. Like I mentioned before everyone I have drafted I have never lost to free agency i get people who want to be yeti and who buy in to the goal that is to get our first Ultimus.
5. What are your short-term and long-term plans for the team?
Short term recover from expansion, long term get that Ultimus
6. What do you look for in your prospects?
1. Personality, if you're a dick bye 2. Earning TPE, end of the day you need to earn TPE in order to get better. 3. Bank Roll, how you getting money. Budgets can only be stretched so far. 4. Archetype of player position, at the end of the day certain types are better than others.
7. Anything else you would like to say?
I look forward to this draft coming up to help build our family and our core to win championships.
My personal opinion: Looks like the Yeti value a good locker room atmosphere more than winning. Maybe that's why they haven't had any luck getting their hands on the Ultimus trophy. If you value a good team spirit, maybe the Yeti's are the team for you.
Honolulu Hahalua
represented by Raven
1. Can you give us a short introduction of your team and its history?
Our team was created during the S21 season and is planned to join the NSFL in the S22 campaign. So history wise we're still young. We have a trade under our belt, but not much else ya know.
2. Please tell us more about yourself and your co-GM. What makes you capable of leading a team?
We are grizzled vets of the sim league world. We've both seen our fair share of shit and have a good idea of how we want to run the team. We like what we have done so far and only plan on continuing this.
3. Why should a player want to be drafted by your team?
Why wouldn't they. While being just a mere expansion team we already have built up a solid locker room environment, which we plan to continue once we have lads coming into the team through the upcoming drafts. We are a helpful place and a place where everyone has a home. We will be a home to those who seek to get better and a home to those already good. We will write a chapter in team history and we want the best to be a part of that and we want those bests to keep improving to make that chapter one of greatness.
4. Does your team have a certain philosophy? Do you prefer to develop young players or sign established older players?
To start off with we will be starting with mostly the young guns. There will be some vets on the team to guide and lead, but rookies get ready to get your chest wet in Honolulu.
5. What are your short-term and long-term plans for the team?
Short-term, build up a solid locker room over the upcoming drafts. Long-term win a cup baby
6. What do you look for in your prospects?
Activity, vibing well with them in conversations. Just a fun time homie
7. Anything else you would like to say?
HON > SAR, lets gooo
My personal opinion: All expansion teams start with high hopes, let's see how it will work out for Honolulu.
New Orleans Second Line
represented by TomHanks
1. Can you give us a short introduction of your team and its history?
The New Orleans Second Line was established as part of the very first expansion of the league. Originally the Las Vegas Legion, we rebranded and moved to New Orleans in S6. After a very tough rebuild from a team that had mass retired, former GM Bovo lead the team to 4 consecutive Ultimus appearances between S8 and S11. After the reign of dominance, NOLA slid back a bit, and started rebuilding again in S14. In S19 we were able to achieve our first winning season since S11 as a result of that rebuild, and it has poised us to be a powerhouse for seasons to come.
2. Please tell us more about yourself and your co-GM. What makes you capable of leading a team?
Currently, our team is led by me and Juosu. I can talk about our resumes since we’ve both won championships in sim leagues at the management level, myself in the DSFL and Juosu in PBE, however, the real strength of New Orleans is that the team doesn't rest on our shoulders alone. The NOLA war room works together tirelessly to make sure the team is always running the best it can be. From budgets and scouting to sim testing and awarding game balls, the work is spread out to make sure that the team is stable and efficiently managed. Our war room has members of league management, a member of the Player Progression team, Rookie Mentors, a DSFL GM, one of the richest members of the league, a name that is synonymous with maximum sim testing, a phenomenal media grader, and someone who has successfully GMed teams not just in the NSFL, but multiple other sim leagues. The Second Line has perfected the art of delegation and communication in order to provide every member of the team the best experience that we can.
3. Why should a player want to be drafted by your team?
New Orleans has a lot to offer. While we care about what happens on the field, we care even more about the user behind the player. We want to make sure you are enjoying the league and offer a locker room that is positive and supportive. The Second Line is a family to the end, and we are hopeful that others want to be a part of that. We make sure that everyone has a chance to be heard and ensure that every member knows how valued they are.
4. Does your team have a certain philosophy? Do you prefer to develop young players or sign established older players?
NOLA is very much team centered in our approach. Our goal is to succeed together. While we want to help each individual member succeed in their personal goals, we balance those goals with the overall wellbeing of the team. We see the value of having a mix of young developing members of the league and established users. We've found great success in combining them, bringing in fresh blood to the team as well as veterans that are able to provide guidance and mentorship for those new users. That said, we built the team we have now almost exclusively through the draft with the exceptions of signing Vinny Valentine for his final season and Marcella Toriki in S19. We’ve drafted a lot of players who want to play for us and decide that they want to stick around for their careers once they become a part of the community. Over time, they’ve developed into stars on the field as well as in our LR, which is why we have as strong a roster as we do.
5. What are your short-term and long-term plans for the team?
Short term, NOLA would like to bring home our next Ultimus (or two, or three) and keep the momentum we've built despite the added challenge of expansion this season. Our long-term plan for the team is to continue to build and maintain a strong team that is ready to compete while maintaining our supportive family atmosphere. We always want to continue building our LR culture. As a team, we work to think seasons ahead so that we can position ourselves for long term success.
6. What do you look for in your prospects?
We're looking for positive and excited people who want to be a part of what we've built here in the Big Easy. We hope to find people who feel at home with us and will want to go on the journey with us, win or lose. TPE is obviously important, but the number one thing we’re looking for is a prospect who we think will really gel with our LR.
7. Anything else you would like to say?
New Orleans really is more than a football team. We're a collection of people that want the best for one another. We stand with each other in good times and bad and work to make sure people feel supported not only in the league, but in their lives. While it's easy to write off the family metaphor as simple hype, it's absolutely the foundation of the team. There is a reason that many people who come to NOLA make the decision to stay there: We show up for one another.
My personal opinion: Congrats on the Ultimus, NOLA. I know the team gets a lot of hate for it's color and brand but they won and that's what should matter most (I like purple anyway).
Orange County Otters
represented by Laser
1. Can you give us a short introduction of your team and its history?
Orange County is one of the stalwarts of the league. We have been in the playoffs for all 21 seasons of league existence and been in the conference championship 20 of those 21 seasons. We have been to 9 Ultimus and won 8 of them. Revolution5 and I strive to the best of our ability to make Orange County a place of acceptance and a place where people can come to just have fun and enjoy themselves.
2. Please tell us more about yourself and your co-GM. What makes you capable of leading a team?
I began co-GMing Orange County in S18 along with longtime GM legend Speculadora. He is, in the minds of many, the best or one of the best GMs in league history. When he stepped down following the Ultimus win in S19, Rev took over for him. Rev had been GMing Minnesota with woelkers, a great GM in his own right, and in fact won the Ultimini as a GM and Ultimus as a player that year. With his and Spec's help, I have grown to be a GM that cares about his players primarily, but secondarily the good of the team as a whole. Most notably, in S20, we traded Thorian Skarsgard to a team that could satisfy his contract demands and moved up to 1oa in the process. We also traded Apollo Reed, who we knew was leaving us in free agency, for another running back so that we wouldn't be crippled at the position. We did our best to trade him to a team that would be able to give him the stats he was after. Rev and I are fully and completely committed to the good of the team and our players.
3. Why should a player want to be drafted by your team?
A player should want to be drafted by the Otters because we have not only a history of success, but a history of being willing to help our players and former players not only on the field and in the NSFL in general, but in their personal lives. We will take care of you, all we ask in return is that you take care of us by continuing to earn and produce for the team.
4. Does your team have a certain philosophy? Do you prefer to develop young players or sign established older players?
Orange County is about home-grown talent. While we will certainly not shy away at shoring up our weak positions with free agent or trade acquisitions, we like to build talent and culture consistently through the draft. There is no one correct way to run a team, and we are aware of that.
5. What are your short-term and long-term plans for the team?
Our short term and long term plans are quite frankly exactly the same. To continue our run of success. I don't really know what else I can say on that particular subject. We are the best and we will continue that.
6. What do you look for in your prospects?
We look for a consistent level of high earning combined with a great locker room culture. If a player is perhaps not earning at the top tier but has an extreme desire to be an Otter, then we will likely draft them over someone who earns better but is indifferent to our team or has an attitude that we disagree with.
7. Anything else you would like to say?
I would just like to say that if anyone at all, no matter the team, ever has anything bothering them and they don't feel comfortable coming to anyone about it, whether it be life in general or NSFL related, I am always open for communication. I would be happy to talk things over with you and help you out. My discord is Laser#8573. Other than that, I wish everyone safety and health during these frightening times.
My personal opinion: It seems like OCO can't go wrong, otherwise they wouldn't have such huge success in their time in the league.
Philadelphia Liberty
represented by Hallmonitor_20
1. Can you give us a short introduction of your team and its history?
The Philadelphia Liberty are a long tenured team in the NSFL joining way back in Season 2. The Liberty have won 2 NSFC championships and won Ultimus VII.
2. Please tell us more about yourself and your co-GM. What makes you capable of leading a team?
Myself and Tim are both what you would consider locker room builders. We are two GMs that look at players first. We want guys that mesh together well and can build off of each others success to better themselves. We have a combined 7 seasons as GMs so we're on the younger side of GMs but we feel like we've been able to build a team that will succeed on and off the field. We've slowly grown from an aging team to a young up and coming team these past few seasons and want to continue that growth of joy and success.
3. Why should a player want to be drafted by your team?
Philly is going to give you an atmosphe that you'll enjoy playing in. Our vets are great teachers of the game whereas are younger guys are hard workers to get Philly to the perenial playoff team they once were. Ask any of our players and they'll tell you that Philadelphia is an inviting place for all players that make guys want to spend their entire career there. We truly are the city of brotherly love.
4. Does your team have a certain philosophy? Do you prefer to develop young players or sign established older players?
"Trust the Process" has been Philly's philosophy since their birth and it's something that has carried down to Tim and I. We have been bringing in younger and younger guys and letting them learn as much as they can from the old vets so when they hit their primes we're going to have a window of success for a long long time.
5. What are your short-term and long-term plans for the team?
Short term is to have our guys grow and get into the playoffs so we can start building the experience that our guys will need to be a championship roster. Long Term is obviously to win the Ultimus and to do it with our core intact.
6. What do you look for in your prospects?
We look for guys that not only earn and work to get better but those that are willing to help others get better as well. We currently have two DSFL GMs on roster with a few other guys who are in DSFL war rooms. These kind of players are guys that you know will show up every day to not only make themselves better but those around them. We also look for guys that are great locker room presences. Not everyone is a max earner but if a prospect can show us that they'll be someone we can rely on to be their through thick and thin, then we value them more than just their TPE numbers.
7. Anything else you would like to say?
The Liberty is an inviting place that takes care of their guys. If you get drafted to the Liberty you just aren't putting on a blue jersey, you're joining the Bell Family. RING THE BELL.
My personal opinion: It's been a while since the Liberty have enjoyed their Ultimus win and times have been tough lately. Seems like they're looking for character first of all, let's see if a good locker room atmosphere makes a good team.
San Jose Sabercats
represented by Rradum
1. Can you give us a short introduction of your team and its history?
The Sabercats are a team with some really solid history. Probably the high point would be going from like 1 to 3 wins per season to Ultimus winners in S14. Ckroyal has been the GM of this team since S1 and has carried on the brand and values of this team throughout the seasons.
2. Please tell us more about yourself and your co-GM. What makes you capable of leading a team?
So I’m the co-GM currently and my name is Rradum. I have been in the league since S14 and my first player was Cameron Olsen (TE gang gang). In my first season in the league I was given the position of GM of the Kansas City Coyotes alongside my (totally not my multi) friend flyeaglesfly29. I became co-GM of the Sabercats in I believe S16 or S17. It’s all a blur. Ckroyal has been the GM of the Sabercats since S1 and he’s only taken a couple short breaks in his team and had someone else take over.
3. Why should a player want to be drafted by your team?
We value great locker room chemistry and team loyalty. We’re on our way back up and we think all players should want to join the ride back to greatness.
4. Does your team have a certain philosophy? Do you prefer to develop young players or sign established older players?
Our philosophy has flipped somewhat recently to where we’re working with younger players since there has been a heavy influx of players into the league in these past couple of seasons.
5. What are your short-term and long-term plans for the team?
Short term is making sure out locker room is a place where people want to be and long term is go on an Ultimus run for multiple seasons in a row.
6. What do you look for in your prospects?
We look for those who are hard working and talkative for the most part. It’s the best combination. But if you aren’t much of a talker but still put in work then we’re looking out for you too.
7. Anything else you would like to say?
I think that’s all I’ve got and I appreciate your questions!
My personal opinion: Looks like the team had a change in philosophy recently. Let's see if it was worth it and the young talent pans out or if they should have kept a "veterans first" approach.
Sarasota Sailfish
represented by RainDelay
1. Can you give us a short introduction of your team and its history?
So we are a brand new team without much history, but we can’t wait to write our story in the NSFL. The Sailfish will be remembered and a household name soon enough!
2. Please tell us more about yourself and your co-GM. What makes you capable of leading a team?
My co-GM is an awesome dude who has been a large part of my great experience in this league. I am honored to GM with him and we make a great team. As for me, my favorite thing to do is help people, and that’s the philosophy I take here with rookies, vets anyone. If you need help, you can always find me!
3. Why should a player want to be drafted by your team?
I’ll keep it simple, a player should want to come to Sarasota because we want to promote two things: winning and having fun! If you like those things, Sarasota might be the place for you!
4. Does your team have a certain philosophy? Do you prefer to develop young players or sign established older players?
We pretty much have to have the rebuild philosophy, although you can take out the “re”. What we’re doing here is building something special, and young players we draft get to be a part of something like none other, the foundation of the franchise. We’re looking for cornerstones here!
5. What are your short-term and long-term plans for the team?
Short term would be to build through this draft and next, and we have plans to be competing for the Ultimus in just a couple seasons, and I’m confident we can get there!
6. What do you look for in your prospects?
I look for fun, kind people who enjoy the league and are willing to learn and grow with an expansion franchise. A nice locker room presence goes a long way!
7. Anything else you would like to say?
Thank you for taking the time to interview me, I appreciate you reaching out. Best of luck in the draft, and wherever you go I know you will have a wonderful career! I hope you have an amazing rest of your day (or night). Cheers, RD!
My personal opinion: Another new team, another long-term project. Let's hope they'll find success and stay in the league for a long time.
Yellowknife Wraiths
represented by flyeaglesfly29
1. Can you give us a short introduction of your team and its history?
The Wraiths have been around for quite a while and have made the playoffs in 13 out of the 21 seasons that this league has been in existence. We currently have 5 players in the HOF, with more that are currently playing the game to come!
Ultimus Trophies: 1
Conference Championships: 6
Division Championships: 7
Playoffs Appearances: 13
Hall of Famers: 5 (Boss Tweed, Fuego Wozy, Alexandre LeClair, Josh Garden, Dermot Lavelle)
2. Please tell us more about yourself and your co-GM. What makes you capable of leading a team?
Shady and I both came into the league with the greatest class ever, that being s15. Upon entering the league both of took on jobs almost immediately. Shady previously was the GM for the San Antonio Marshall in the DSFL for 2 seasons. After before being drafted by the Wraiths, Shady took over as a Co-GM for the Wraiths in S18. Great guy that has a ton of knowledge about the sim and how it works. He learned what he knows from who the league refers to as "Sim God" (TimeConsumer - Cooter Bigsby). He also is the handler of all things budget related for the most part in YK.
I on the other hand started as a Co-Gm in Kansas City alongside Rradum (Current Gm of SJS). We took over the roles of GM after only being in the league for about a month at the time. I continued as a GM for the Coyotes for 2 seasons as well before stepping down for a brief time. I was Chicago's first ever draft pick and then went on to GM for them for about half a season before coming to YK in free agency. After my first season with YK, I took over as Shady's Co-GM in S20. While Shady handles the sim and budget, I handle the day to day things. I am also the head of scouting for our team while handling the position of Head Updater for the league.
What qualifies us: Experience is one thing for sure. We have both been around the league for over a year now and therefore have seen quite a lot. The other thing that qualifies us to do this job is that we have learned from some amazing teachers along the way! Speaking for both Shady and myself, I know that we are very thankful for the people that taught us along the way and still continue to help when needed!
Also, we're just cool AF.
3. Why should a player want to be drafted by your team?
Check the stats above! The Wraiths are a team that has made the playoffs 13 out of 21 seasons. That proves that we are going to be competitive year in and year out. We have been to the Ultimus 3 years in a row and are in the playoffs again this season hoping to make it back! I think everything that I just said speaks for itself honestly.
The other reason that someone should want to be drafted here is because we are a great group of people! We have a drama free LR 99% of the time and we enjoy keeping it that way! We pick each other up when someone is down and we celebrate together when things are great. I've been in many LR's across two leagues and this is by far my favorite.
4. Does your team have a certain philosophy? Do you prefer to develop young players or sign established older players?
In my opinion, the following statements are the 4 most important things you should consider when you think about the YellowKnife Wraiths:
#1 We never draft based upon scheme or need. We draft based upon who the top talent is available and we figure out how we can change our system to utilize them.
#2 We try and cultivate an environment that makes free agents want to come to us.
#3 We are a team that doesn't believe in tanking, we believe that by trusting our players and our coaches to give it everything they've got every single game and every single season is the only way to be successful.
#4 We know that one player will never make this team.
We believe that having a good mix of young players and veterans is the best way to approach things and the reason for that is to bestow knowledge. Our veteran leadership can help cultivate the young talent and help them maximize their time in the league!
5. What are your short-term and long-term plans for the team?
Short Term: Finish out the rest of this season, hopefully ending with a Championship. Also, making sure that our plan for the draft is in tip-top shape so that we can continue bringing awesome players to this organization.
Long Term: Compete!
6. What do you look for in your prospects?
I tell folks this all the time when I am scouting: we care a lot more about the person than the player. What I mean by that is this: You can have a million TPE, but if you are a crappy person or someone that will not fit into our LR, we aren't going to draft you. We value the fact that people enjoy being on this team and no one person is worth risking that! We also do our best to make sure that the people we draft are going to earn TPE because that is the name of the game, but ultimately being a decent person is the most important!
7. Anything else you would like to say?
No, I think I've said enough here lol. Thanks for reaching out and good luck in the draft process!
My personal opinion: If you like Championship games, Yellowknife is the team for you. If you like winning... maybe they'll be the team for you in the future.
as someone who will proudly hold up a NSFL jersey and smile into a million cameras in a couple of days, I wanted to know more about the people in charge and the teams I could potentially end up on. I was inspired by mithrandir‘s great "Rookie Guide to the NSFL Teams" but wanted a bit more background info to get a better feel for the teams and their GMs.
I want to say a big thank you to all the GMs taking the time to answer my questionnaire in this stressful times with the expansion draft and the NSFL draft. I learned a lot about every single team and their outlook on football and I hope you will, too.
Arizona Outlaws
represented by Unicorn
1. Can you give us a short introduction of your team and its history?
The Outlaws are infamous for the multi scandal that took place during the early seasons of the league. Right now we are the youngest team the NSFL with the most draft picks in the S22 draft. Our QB will be hitting his prime soon and with many other key pieces on offense and defense reaching high TPE levels soon, the Outlaws look to be hitting their window in the upcoming seasons.
2. Please tell us more about yourself and your co-GM. What makes you capable of leading a team?
I've been in the league since Season 3, so I have a lot of experience in the league and was the co-GM of the Hawks back in S13. My co-gm Dankoa has a lot of experience of GMing in other leagues.
3. Why should a player want to be drafted by your team?
We're a young team that has a plan. We’re a chilled out but driven team with a very bright future. Come be a part of something that’s going to be very special, very soon
4. Does your team have a certain philosophy? Do you prefer to develop young players or sign established older players?
My current philosophy is switching the team to all younger players, which you can see by the trades I've made since taking over as GM.
5. What are your short-term and long-term plans for the team?
We've pretty much made all the moves we needed to make for both the short and long term future. We have the most draft picks for the S22 draft, which will put us in a great position to compete in the future.
6. What do you look for in your prospects?
I look for prospects that obviously have been earning a lot of TPE, but also prospects that have a source of income outside of contracts. Those are the two most important things for me.
7. Anything else you would like to say?
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My personal opinion: The Outlaws seem confident they can turn the tide and be a competitor with a core of young players. It's up to you if you believe you're the missing part of their puzzle with the core they already have or if they won't reach their potential.
Austin Copperheads
represented by Mooty99
1. Can you give us a short introduction of your team and its history?
Austin are a relatively new team, we joined during the last expansion along with Chicago, with our first season being season 16. From that point on we slowly built our team carefully. This culminated in us winning the Ultimus last year, which was only Austin's 5th season in the NSFL.
2. Please tell us more about yourself and your co-GM. What makes you capable of leading a team?
Joe is the GM and I am his co-GM. Joe founded Austin with AdamS who was the GM up until last season and so helped master mind Austin's rise from new team to Ultimus winners. Joe is a very experienced NSFL member and sim league GM, his last player was put in the hall of fame this season. Along with Austin Joe currently GMs teams in both the SHL and PBE so is about experienced as you can be.
I became Joe's co-GM at the end of last season after AdamS stood down. This move had been planned for most of last season with AdamS doing a very extensive handover throughout last season with me. I have been a member of Austin's war room for a number of seasons and also GM in the GRSL.
Joe and I are both personable and intelligent and work extremely well together. You will not see rash or stupid decisions coming out of Austin. Austin have an excellent war room that we can lean on and talk through decisions with, this war room includes an ex-commissioner, ex-GMs and current DSFL GMs.
3. Why should a player want to be drafted by your team?
Austin are a really friendly, fun and relaxed team with a great lockeroom environment. We have carefully cultivated this lockeroom culture and prize personality over TPE when drafting. We have plenty of experienced players who are always happy to help rookies and new players.
4. Does your team have a certain philosophy? Do you prefer to develop young players or sign established older players?
Austin's philosophy can been see on our victory banner on the site where it says "we build houses". Austin always looks to bring in and develop new players, we build the team for long term success rather than short team gain. Austin look for players who will both fit and add to the lockeroom and the team as a whole not just TPE.
5. What are your short-term and long-term plans for the team?
The short term plans for Austin are quite simple, we have a top quarterback and a very strong backbone of players, we are able and plan to compete for the Ultimus for the next few seasons.
Long term is what Austin is all about, while we know we will be competing over the next few seasons we always have one eye on the future. We draft players with this in mind and hope to remain a competitive team continuously using this strategy. For examples plans for our quarterback to be replaced are already set out despite it not being needed for the next 4 to 5 seasons.
6. What do you look for in your prospects?
We look for personality, fit within our lockeroom and what someone brings to the team as a whole not just on the field. We try and thoroughly scout every active player and have long discussions in our war room. This has been our philosophy since the inception of Austin and it continues to be this way looking into the S22 draft and beyond.
7. Anything else you would like to say?
Nothing more than to wish every S22 prospect the very best of luck in this upcoming draft. They are a really special group not just due to their size but also how active and friendly they all are. It is amazing to see so many of them creating great media and taking up jobs around the league with such relish. So no matter where you go, you are all great!
My personal opinion: The Copperheads have shown they have the potential to win it all with their Ultimus trophy after a short time in the league. But it's always harder to repeat success.
Baltimore Hawks
represented by Huskies311
1. Can you give us a short introduction of your team and its history?
Baltimore is an original team from the start of the league, and we’re also the most successful team in the NSFC. We have two Ultimus, and the most Hall of Famers of any team.
2. Please tell us more about yourself and your co-GM. What makes you capable of leading a team?
Duilio and I have a lot of GMing experience in both the NSFL and DSFL. Neither of us has ever missed a playoffs, and I also have an Ultimini win GMing Portland. We also think we can handle players pretty well, as Baltimore hasn’t been the center of any drama since we’ve been around it.
3. Why should a player want to be drafted by your team?
Baltimore offers a chill place just to enjoy the league and compete consistently. We have a solid history.
4. Does your team have a certain philosophy? Do you prefer to develop young players or sign established older players?
Duilio and I are really adaptable. Historically, Baltimore has had a high-powered offense but there’s no shortage of good defensive players to play for Baltimore. In terms of player age, right now we are looking for youth. I think we will have another long championship window likely starting in S23.
5. What are your short-term and long-term plans for the team?
Short term, I’d love to win the Ultimus this season. Next season will be a short retool as we’ll have a super young QB. But after that we’ll be back to competing.
6. What do you look for in your prospects?
The first thing is activity, both on Discord and the forum. You don’t have to be a max earner, but earning consistently is important. Of course, we also usually get non-controversial players but won’t rule out anyone.
7. Anything else you would like to say?
I honestly can’t wait to bring in the new generation of Hawks in the next draft! Also, if anyone ever needs anyone to talk to, even if it’s not league related, please reach out. I love talking to people and I know duilio does too.
My personal opinion: With Baltimore's record of their player making it into the Hall of Fame this might be the top destination for people who care a lot about their stats and personal accomplishments.
Chicago Butchers
represented by BayleyIsland
1. Can you give us a short introduction of your team and its history?
The Chicago Butchers were founded by Oles and Muford just about one year ago on May 1st of 2019, so we are coming up on the one year anniversary. It's a team that went through some tough patches as we have seen recently. We were an expansion team, and we are the only team currently to not appear in a Championship game. That will absolutely be changing with Muford and I.
2. Please tell us more about yourself and your co-GM. What makes you capable of leading a team?
Muford and I have experience in GMing before. I was the GM of the NOLA Second Line and Muford was CO-GM in San Jose and Chicago a few seasons back. We have experience in sim leagues as well as here to get this team to the next level. We have both created Hall of Fame players as Bayley and (SHARPEI SHOULD BE HERE IF SOMEONE VOTED LIKE THEY SHOULD HAVE) were great players. We have the experience and sim familiarity to help people build players and put together a team to succeed.
3. Why should a player want to be drafted by your team?
Chicago is looking for stability and promise. We are looking to bring in players that will believe in us and give us a chance to do what we will do here. We will help you build the player that you want to build and put that into our gameplan. We are going to be transforming the locker room and the culture around the team. If you want to be part of this rebuild and transformation into a team that everyone wants to be on, this is your team. We want players that believe in us and want to be here.
4. Does your team have a certain philosophy? Do you prefer to develop young players or sign established older players?
We are looking to do a little of both. We want to develop players from this draft as well as surround them with established players who fit into the culture. We are not about trying to wait on a rebuild. We want to be aggressive and find people who believe in what we are trying to build. We are looking towards younger, but we have some needs to fill, so we will be looking at all routes. If you want to be in Chicago, we would love to bring you in. We want to win as soon as we can and establish a culture that people want to also be here.
5. What are your short-term and long-term plans for the team?
We have the short-term goal of filling some needs that we have as well as bring in players in older positions. We look at people like Rose Jenkins that is nearing retirement, so we need to bring in the next Quarterback. We also have needs in the secondary as well as at other positions. Immediately, we are looking for players to help Rose win this season. We could use another WR to help in our passing game. We are going to look towards now and the future. We don't have a 1st round pick next season, so it'll be about bringing in players using our picks this year and any capital that we have available. We need to retool some of the positions that are getting older, but we have a good core of young players on defense to really build around.
6. What do you look for in your prospects?
I look for a few different things, I did do an article not too long ago on what I really look for, but the first would be demeanor around the forum and on discord. I want someone who is really cool to get along with and will have no issues with anyone. I do want activity and someone who has that team-first mentality. I am not talking about not wanting to switch positions, it's the other things that means more to me. You may want to stay at a certain position, which we want you to stay there. We will always bend us around you because that is what keeps you interested and liking the league. Those two would be the top two, but there are other stuff that we won't really go into for competitive advantage.
7. Anything else you would like to say?
Not too much, for everyone saying that they do not want to go to Chicago, we will remember that when we are winning. Believe us and believe in Chicago.
My personal opinion: Chicago shows a bit of the "us against the world" attitude. Let's hope it pays off and they will prove all the doubters and haters wrong.
Colorado Yeti
represented by Frick_Nasty
1. Can you give us a short introduction of your team and its history?
Well I am Frick_Nasty of the Colorado Yeti. I have the honor of GMing this lovely team. Colorado is the only original team to have yet win an Ultimus whether due to poor past management or bad sim luck. I do believe our first is soon to come.
2. Please tell us more about yourself and your co-GM. What makes you capable of leading a team?
I have been in the league over a year now, woelkers is s17 so we're fairly young group. Woelkers has won two Ultiminis with the Minnesota ducks before getting promoted to the big leagues. I also am a GM in the minors in PBE so leading a team isn't new to me. I am always available for help build advice you name it. I pride myself on retaining and acquiring the right players to reach and win the franchise first Ultimus.
3. Why should a player want to be drafted by your team?
Yeti is a family, we care about everyone on our team beyond the player. If we only cared about the sim we wouldn't be a happy group. So it comes down to if you want lifelong friends and people who don't stir up drama Colorado is the place to be.
4. Does your team have a certain philosophy? Do you prefer to develop young players or sign established older players?
Yeti noises, a term for celebrating and crying. Through the bad times we appreciate the good times. Like I mentioned before everyone I have drafted I have never lost to free agency i get people who want to be yeti and who buy in to the goal that is to get our first Ultimus.
5. What are your short-term and long-term plans for the team?
Short term recover from expansion, long term get that Ultimus
6. What do you look for in your prospects?
1. Personality, if you're a dick bye 2. Earning TPE, end of the day you need to earn TPE in order to get better. 3. Bank Roll, how you getting money. Budgets can only be stretched so far. 4. Archetype of player position, at the end of the day certain types are better than others.
7. Anything else you would like to say?
I look forward to this draft coming up to help build our family and our core to win championships.
My personal opinion: Looks like the Yeti value a good locker room atmosphere more than winning. Maybe that's why they haven't had any luck getting their hands on the Ultimus trophy. If you value a good team spirit, maybe the Yeti's are the team for you.
Honolulu Hahalua
represented by Raven
1. Can you give us a short introduction of your team and its history?
Our team was created during the S21 season and is planned to join the NSFL in the S22 campaign. So history wise we're still young. We have a trade under our belt, but not much else ya know.
2. Please tell us more about yourself and your co-GM. What makes you capable of leading a team?
We are grizzled vets of the sim league world. We've both seen our fair share of shit and have a good idea of how we want to run the team. We like what we have done so far and only plan on continuing this.
3. Why should a player want to be drafted by your team?
Why wouldn't they. While being just a mere expansion team we already have built up a solid locker room environment, which we plan to continue once we have lads coming into the team through the upcoming drafts. We are a helpful place and a place where everyone has a home. We will be a home to those who seek to get better and a home to those already good. We will write a chapter in team history and we want the best to be a part of that and we want those bests to keep improving to make that chapter one of greatness.
4. Does your team have a certain philosophy? Do you prefer to develop young players or sign established older players?
To start off with we will be starting with mostly the young guns. There will be some vets on the team to guide and lead, but rookies get ready to get your chest wet in Honolulu.
5. What are your short-term and long-term plans for the team?
Short-term, build up a solid locker room over the upcoming drafts. Long-term win a cup baby
6. What do you look for in your prospects?
Activity, vibing well with them in conversations. Just a fun time homie
7. Anything else you would like to say?
HON > SAR, lets gooo
My personal opinion: All expansion teams start with high hopes, let's see how it will work out for Honolulu.
New Orleans Second Line
represented by TomHanks
1. Can you give us a short introduction of your team and its history?
The New Orleans Second Line was established as part of the very first expansion of the league. Originally the Las Vegas Legion, we rebranded and moved to New Orleans in S6. After a very tough rebuild from a team that had mass retired, former GM Bovo lead the team to 4 consecutive Ultimus appearances between S8 and S11. After the reign of dominance, NOLA slid back a bit, and started rebuilding again in S14. In S19 we were able to achieve our first winning season since S11 as a result of that rebuild, and it has poised us to be a powerhouse for seasons to come.
2. Please tell us more about yourself and your co-GM. What makes you capable of leading a team?
Currently, our team is led by me and Juosu. I can talk about our resumes since we’ve both won championships in sim leagues at the management level, myself in the DSFL and Juosu in PBE, however, the real strength of New Orleans is that the team doesn't rest on our shoulders alone. The NOLA war room works together tirelessly to make sure the team is always running the best it can be. From budgets and scouting to sim testing and awarding game balls, the work is spread out to make sure that the team is stable and efficiently managed. Our war room has members of league management, a member of the Player Progression team, Rookie Mentors, a DSFL GM, one of the richest members of the league, a name that is synonymous with maximum sim testing, a phenomenal media grader, and someone who has successfully GMed teams not just in the NSFL, but multiple other sim leagues. The Second Line has perfected the art of delegation and communication in order to provide every member of the team the best experience that we can.
3. Why should a player want to be drafted by your team?
New Orleans has a lot to offer. While we care about what happens on the field, we care even more about the user behind the player. We want to make sure you are enjoying the league and offer a locker room that is positive and supportive. The Second Line is a family to the end, and we are hopeful that others want to be a part of that. We make sure that everyone has a chance to be heard and ensure that every member knows how valued they are.
4. Does your team have a certain philosophy? Do you prefer to develop young players or sign established older players?
NOLA is very much team centered in our approach. Our goal is to succeed together. While we want to help each individual member succeed in their personal goals, we balance those goals with the overall wellbeing of the team. We see the value of having a mix of young developing members of the league and established users. We've found great success in combining them, bringing in fresh blood to the team as well as veterans that are able to provide guidance and mentorship for those new users. That said, we built the team we have now almost exclusively through the draft with the exceptions of signing Vinny Valentine for his final season and Marcella Toriki in S19. We’ve drafted a lot of players who want to play for us and decide that they want to stick around for their careers once they become a part of the community. Over time, they’ve developed into stars on the field as well as in our LR, which is why we have as strong a roster as we do.
5. What are your short-term and long-term plans for the team?
Short term, NOLA would like to bring home our next Ultimus (or two, or three) and keep the momentum we've built despite the added challenge of expansion this season. Our long-term plan for the team is to continue to build and maintain a strong team that is ready to compete while maintaining our supportive family atmosphere. We always want to continue building our LR culture. As a team, we work to think seasons ahead so that we can position ourselves for long term success.
6. What do you look for in your prospects?
We're looking for positive and excited people who want to be a part of what we've built here in the Big Easy. We hope to find people who feel at home with us and will want to go on the journey with us, win or lose. TPE is obviously important, but the number one thing we’re looking for is a prospect who we think will really gel with our LR.
7. Anything else you would like to say?
New Orleans really is more than a football team. We're a collection of people that want the best for one another. We stand with each other in good times and bad and work to make sure people feel supported not only in the league, but in their lives. While it's easy to write off the family metaphor as simple hype, it's absolutely the foundation of the team. There is a reason that many people who come to NOLA make the decision to stay there: We show up for one another.
My personal opinion: Congrats on the Ultimus, NOLA. I know the team gets a lot of hate for it's color and brand but they won and that's what should matter most (I like purple anyway).
Orange County Otters
represented by Laser
1. Can you give us a short introduction of your team and its history?
Orange County is one of the stalwarts of the league. We have been in the playoffs for all 21 seasons of league existence and been in the conference championship 20 of those 21 seasons. We have been to 9 Ultimus and won 8 of them. Revolution5 and I strive to the best of our ability to make Orange County a place of acceptance and a place where people can come to just have fun and enjoy themselves.
2. Please tell us more about yourself and your co-GM. What makes you capable of leading a team?
I began co-GMing Orange County in S18 along with longtime GM legend Speculadora. He is, in the minds of many, the best or one of the best GMs in league history. When he stepped down following the Ultimus win in S19, Rev took over for him. Rev had been GMing Minnesota with woelkers, a great GM in his own right, and in fact won the Ultimini as a GM and Ultimus as a player that year. With his and Spec's help, I have grown to be a GM that cares about his players primarily, but secondarily the good of the team as a whole. Most notably, in S20, we traded Thorian Skarsgard to a team that could satisfy his contract demands and moved up to 1oa in the process. We also traded Apollo Reed, who we knew was leaving us in free agency, for another running back so that we wouldn't be crippled at the position. We did our best to trade him to a team that would be able to give him the stats he was after. Rev and I are fully and completely committed to the good of the team and our players.
3. Why should a player want to be drafted by your team?
A player should want to be drafted by the Otters because we have not only a history of success, but a history of being willing to help our players and former players not only on the field and in the NSFL in general, but in their personal lives. We will take care of you, all we ask in return is that you take care of us by continuing to earn and produce for the team.
4. Does your team have a certain philosophy? Do you prefer to develop young players or sign established older players?
Orange County is about home-grown talent. While we will certainly not shy away at shoring up our weak positions with free agent or trade acquisitions, we like to build talent and culture consistently through the draft. There is no one correct way to run a team, and we are aware of that.
5. What are your short-term and long-term plans for the team?
Our short term and long term plans are quite frankly exactly the same. To continue our run of success. I don't really know what else I can say on that particular subject. We are the best and we will continue that.
6. What do you look for in your prospects?
We look for a consistent level of high earning combined with a great locker room culture. If a player is perhaps not earning at the top tier but has an extreme desire to be an Otter, then we will likely draft them over someone who earns better but is indifferent to our team or has an attitude that we disagree with.
7. Anything else you would like to say?
I would just like to say that if anyone at all, no matter the team, ever has anything bothering them and they don't feel comfortable coming to anyone about it, whether it be life in general or NSFL related, I am always open for communication. I would be happy to talk things over with you and help you out. My discord is Laser#8573. Other than that, I wish everyone safety and health during these frightening times.
My personal opinion: It seems like OCO can't go wrong, otherwise they wouldn't have such huge success in their time in the league.
Philadelphia Liberty
represented by Hallmonitor_20
1. Can you give us a short introduction of your team and its history?
The Philadelphia Liberty are a long tenured team in the NSFL joining way back in Season 2. The Liberty have won 2 NSFC championships and won Ultimus VII.
2. Please tell us more about yourself and your co-GM. What makes you capable of leading a team?
Myself and Tim are both what you would consider locker room builders. We are two GMs that look at players first. We want guys that mesh together well and can build off of each others success to better themselves. We have a combined 7 seasons as GMs so we're on the younger side of GMs but we feel like we've been able to build a team that will succeed on and off the field. We've slowly grown from an aging team to a young up and coming team these past few seasons and want to continue that growth of joy and success.
3. Why should a player want to be drafted by your team?
Philly is going to give you an atmosphe that you'll enjoy playing in. Our vets are great teachers of the game whereas are younger guys are hard workers to get Philly to the perenial playoff team they once were. Ask any of our players and they'll tell you that Philadelphia is an inviting place for all players that make guys want to spend their entire career there. We truly are the city of brotherly love.
4. Does your team have a certain philosophy? Do you prefer to develop young players or sign established older players?
"Trust the Process" has been Philly's philosophy since their birth and it's something that has carried down to Tim and I. We have been bringing in younger and younger guys and letting them learn as much as they can from the old vets so when they hit their primes we're going to have a window of success for a long long time.
5. What are your short-term and long-term plans for the team?
Short term is to have our guys grow and get into the playoffs so we can start building the experience that our guys will need to be a championship roster. Long Term is obviously to win the Ultimus and to do it with our core intact.
6. What do you look for in your prospects?
We look for guys that not only earn and work to get better but those that are willing to help others get better as well. We currently have two DSFL GMs on roster with a few other guys who are in DSFL war rooms. These kind of players are guys that you know will show up every day to not only make themselves better but those around them. We also look for guys that are great locker room presences. Not everyone is a max earner but if a prospect can show us that they'll be someone we can rely on to be their through thick and thin, then we value them more than just their TPE numbers.
7. Anything else you would like to say?
The Liberty is an inviting place that takes care of their guys. If you get drafted to the Liberty you just aren't putting on a blue jersey, you're joining the Bell Family. RING THE BELL.
My personal opinion: It's been a while since the Liberty have enjoyed their Ultimus win and times have been tough lately. Seems like they're looking for character first of all, let's see if a good locker room atmosphere makes a good team.
San Jose Sabercats
represented by Rradum
1. Can you give us a short introduction of your team and its history?
The Sabercats are a team with some really solid history. Probably the high point would be going from like 1 to 3 wins per season to Ultimus winners in S14. Ckroyal has been the GM of this team since S1 and has carried on the brand and values of this team throughout the seasons.
2. Please tell us more about yourself and your co-GM. What makes you capable of leading a team?
So I’m the co-GM currently and my name is Rradum. I have been in the league since S14 and my first player was Cameron Olsen (TE gang gang). In my first season in the league I was given the position of GM of the Kansas City Coyotes alongside my (totally not my multi) friend flyeaglesfly29. I became co-GM of the Sabercats in I believe S16 or S17. It’s all a blur. Ckroyal has been the GM of the Sabercats since S1 and he’s only taken a couple short breaks in his team and had someone else take over.
3. Why should a player want to be drafted by your team?
We value great locker room chemistry and team loyalty. We’re on our way back up and we think all players should want to join the ride back to greatness.
4. Does your team have a certain philosophy? Do you prefer to develop young players or sign established older players?
Our philosophy has flipped somewhat recently to where we’re working with younger players since there has been a heavy influx of players into the league in these past couple of seasons.
5. What are your short-term and long-term plans for the team?
Short term is making sure out locker room is a place where people want to be and long term is go on an Ultimus run for multiple seasons in a row.
6. What do you look for in your prospects?
We look for those who are hard working and talkative for the most part. It’s the best combination. But if you aren’t much of a talker but still put in work then we’re looking out for you too.
7. Anything else you would like to say?
I think that’s all I’ve got and I appreciate your questions!
My personal opinion: Looks like the team had a change in philosophy recently. Let's see if it was worth it and the young talent pans out or if they should have kept a "veterans first" approach.
Sarasota Sailfish
represented by RainDelay
1. Can you give us a short introduction of your team and its history?
So we are a brand new team without much history, but we can’t wait to write our story in the NSFL. The Sailfish will be remembered and a household name soon enough!
2. Please tell us more about yourself and your co-GM. What makes you capable of leading a team?
My co-GM is an awesome dude who has been a large part of my great experience in this league. I am honored to GM with him and we make a great team. As for me, my favorite thing to do is help people, and that’s the philosophy I take here with rookies, vets anyone. If you need help, you can always find me!
3. Why should a player want to be drafted by your team?
I’ll keep it simple, a player should want to come to Sarasota because we want to promote two things: winning and having fun! If you like those things, Sarasota might be the place for you!
4. Does your team have a certain philosophy? Do you prefer to develop young players or sign established older players?
We pretty much have to have the rebuild philosophy, although you can take out the “re”. What we’re doing here is building something special, and young players we draft get to be a part of something like none other, the foundation of the franchise. We’re looking for cornerstones here!
5. What are your short-term and long-term plans for the team?
Short term would be to build through this draft and next, and we have plans to be competing for the Ultimus in just a couple seasons, and I’m confident we can get there!
6. What do you look for in your prospects?
I look for fun, kind people who enjoy the league and are willing to learn and grow with an expansion franchise. A nice locker room presence goes a long way!
7. Anything else you would like to say?
Thank you for taking the time to interview me, I appreciate you reaching out. Best of luck in the draft, and wherever you go I know you will have a wonderful career! I hope you have an amazing rest of your day (or night). Cheers, RD!
My personal opinion: Another new team, another long-term project. Let's hope they'll find success and stay in the league for a long time.
Yellowknife Wraiths
represented by flyeaglesfly29
1. Can you give us a short introduction of your team and its history?
The Wraiths have been around for quite a while and have made the playoffs in 13 out of the 21 seasons that this league has been in existence. We currently have 5 players in the HOF, with more that are currently playing the game to come!
Ultimus Trophies: 1
Conference Championships: 6
Division Championships: 7
Playoffs Appearances: 13
Hall of Famers: 5 (Boss Tweed, Fuego Wozy, Alexandre LeClair, Josh Garden, Dermot Lavelle)
2. Please tell us more about yourself and your co-GM. What makes you capable of leading a team?
Shady and I both came into the league with the greatest class ever, that being s15. Upon entering the league both of took on jobs almost immediately. Shady previously was the GM for the San Antonio Marshall in the DSFL for 2 seasons. After before being drafted by the Wraiths, Shady took over as a Co-GM for the Wraiths in S18. Great guy that has a ton of knowledge about the sim and how it works. He learned what he knows from who the league refers to as "Sim God" (TimeConsumer - Cooter Bigsby). He also is the handler of all things budget related for the most part in YK.
I on the other hand started as a Co-Gm in Kansas City alongside Rradum (Current Gm of SJS). We took over the roles of GM after only being in the league for about a month at the time. I continued as a GM for the Coyotes for 2 seasons as well before stepping down for a brief time. I was Chicago's first ever draft pick and then went on to GM for them for about half a season before coming to YK in free agency. After my first season with YK, I took over as Shady's Co-GM in S20. While Shady handles the sim and budget, I handle the day to day things. I am also the head of scouting for our team while handling the position of Head Updater for the league.
What qualifies us: Experience is one thing for sure. We have both been around the league for over a year now and therefore have seen quite a lot. The other thing that qualifies us to do this job is that we have learned from some amazing teachers along the way! Speaking for both Shady and myself, I know that we are very thankful for the people that taught us along the way and still continue to help when needed!
Also, we're just cool AF.
3. Why should a player want to be drafted by your team?
Check the stats above! The Wraiths are a team that has made the playoffs 13 out of 21 seasons. That proves that we are going to be competitive year in and year out. We have been to the Ultimus 3 years in a row and are in the playoffs again this season hoping to make it back! I think everything that I just said speaks for itself honestly.
The other reason that someone should want to be drafted here is because we are a great group of people! We have a drama free LR 99% of the time and we enjoy keeping it that way! We pick each other up when someone is down and we celebrate together when things are great. I've been in many LR's across two leagues and this is by far my favorite.
4. Does your team have a certain philosophy? Do you prefer to develop young players or sign established older players?
In my opinion, the following statements are the 4 most important things you should consider when you think about the YellowKnife Wraiths:
#1 We never draft based upon scheme or need. We draft based upon who the top talent is available and we figure out how we can change our system to utilize them.
#2 We try and cultivate an environment that makes free agents want to come to us.
#3 We are a team that doesn't believe in tanking, we believe that by trusting our players and our coaches to give it everything they've got every single game and every single season is the only way to be successful.
#4 We know that one player will never make this team.
We believe that having a good mix of young players and veterans is the best way to approach things and the reason for that is to bestow knowledge. Our veteran leadership can help cultivate the young talent and help them maximize their time in the league!
5. What are your short-term and long-term plans for the team?
Short Term: Finish out the rest of this season, hopefully ending with a Championship. Also, making sure that our plan for the draft is in tip-top shape so that we can continue bringing awesome players to this organization.
Long Term: Compete!
6. What do you look for in your prospects?
I tell folks this all the time when I am scouting: we care a lot more about the person than the player. What I mean by that is this: You can have a million TPE, but if you are a crappy person or someone that will not fit into our LR, we aren't going to draft you. We value the fact that people enjoy being on this team and no one person is worth risking that! We also do our best to make sure that the people we draft are going to earn TPE because that is the name of the game, but ultimately being a decent person is the most important!
7. Anything else you would like to say?
No, I think I've said enough here lol. Thanks for reaching out and good luck in the draft process!
My personal opinion: If you like Championship games, Yellowknife is the team for you. If you like winning... maybe they'll be the team for you in the future.
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