[div align=\\\"center\\\"]Eric Kennedy Talks About S5 / S6
![[Image: danny-amendola.jpg?w=640]](https://nesncom.files.wordpress.com/2018/01/danny-amendola.jpg?w=640)
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After remaining quiet amidst an unusual level of success season last year, Wraiths RB Eric Kennedy sat down with SportsHype.net to discuss his newfound success and his goals for the current season.
SportsHype.Net: You’ve been unusually quiet since your breakout season last year. What were your thoughts on your unprecedented success during your 4th season in the league?
Eric Kennedy: Don’t jinx it? No, really. I had a lot of interview requests last year, but I wanted to stay out of it and focus on the season. I was worried that it could affect my performance if I let myself get caught up in the hype. I fought so hard to get to this point; it was never about bragging. I'm just happy that I could play such a key role in our team's success last year.
SH: That success was also met with some loud criticism.
EK: Yes and, believe me, I heard all of it. I get it, though. Anytime a player comes out of nowhere and hits a hot streak like that, people are going to question it. I was in a supporting role for so long that people had written me off, but I always knew that I’d be able to prove myself if I was given a more prominent role. And, last season, I was finally given that chance. This was never about trying to break records or steal the spotlight from anyone. I just wanted a chance to show everyone what I was capable of. I think the Yellowknife fans have known for a long time and the fans that followed me back home in New Orleans probably knew, too, but before that big season, most of the league hadn’t noticed me. And now that I’m in a starting role, I’m going to fight hard to stay there.
SH: Certainly, your performance did get noticed on a large scale. The NSFL Head Office voted you MVP, but the Player’s Association chose to honor a different player with their Most Outstanding Player award. How did that make you feel?
EK: Well, to be fair, it was a tie for MVP with the Otters’ Mike Boss, but it was an incredible honor nonetheless. He’s a tremendous player and he constantly excels at his position. Of course, the player that the association chose to honor, Jordan Yates, had a fantastic season of his own and was equally worthy of being included in that discussion. For the most part, in football, it’s very rare to see someone other than a Quarterback considered for that type of award and I think it’s great to see two Running Backs featured in that discussion. The MVP did feel a little hollow given that I didn’t have the support of the player’s association, but I still hope to win that award one day. As nice as it was to be honored by the Head Office, nothing means more to me than the support of my peers.
[div align=\\\"center\\\"]![[Image: tom-brady-danny-amendola-ftr.jpg?w=620]](https://pmchollywoodlife.files.wordpress.com/2018/01/tom-brady-danny-amendola-ftr.jpg?w=620)
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SH: You’ve played a lot of different roles during your time so far in the league. Even before your breakout as a receiver, you utilized heavily as a blocking Fullback during your first two seasons in the league. Now, you’ve moved into the role of a traditional Running Back, currently standing at #2 in rushing yards for S6. Why is it so important for you to be successful in so many aspects of the game? Wouldn’t you rather stick to what’s worked for you so far?
EK: Well, the league is constantly changing. You’re never going to get anywhere by just sticking what’s worked before. But even if going back to the slot would guarantee the same success, being a featured Running Back was all that I ever wanted. It’s a goal that I’ve talked about a lot over these last four seasons and to finally be in a position where I’ve earned that spot means everything to me. Even when I was consistently having 100-yard games as a receiver, this was where I really wanted to be. I’m a team player, though, and that was what the team needed from me at the time. Fortunately, we’re in a position this year that’s allowed me to step out of a core receiving role and focus on running the ball. And I couldn’t be happier.
SH: The competition between Running Backs right now is as good as it’s ever been. What are your thoughts on the other Running Backs in the league?
EK: It’s so competitive right now. I think a big part of that is because we’ve had several talented players move into the position over the last two seasons. The one thing that makes me stand out is that I’ve been a Running Back since I entered the league. I’ve played other roles when I’ve been called to do so, but my designation has always been as a Running Back because that’s always been my goal. Another guy that fits that designation and has carried it well has been Boss Tweed. I have nothing but respect for him. Honestly, on any other team, he could be unstoppable, but he’s stayed with his team out of loyalty. If the Yeti can put together a winning season in the near future, Tweed is going to be a large part of the reason for that. Jordan Yates is another player that I admire and I touched on that a bit earlier, but I think we’re very comparable in our versatility. Up until recently, it’s really been a passing league and we’ve both done our best to adapt to that. It takes a creative player to find ways to reach the end zone 21 times in a season, but that desire to constantly reinvent himself has allows him to achieve that type of success. And, of course, it’s hard not to notice Owen Taylor given the impact that he’s already had this season. He’s having a monster run right now and has certainly set the bar for the rest of us so far.
SH: What are your thoughts on the S6 Rookie Class? Do you feel any pressure to perform better given that you know you have three young Running Backs on your tail now?
EK: I’ve had some talks with Spike Crown about that and I trust his judgment. Ultimately, you take the good with the bad. Part of the reason I’m even able to take on my current role is the degree to which our new Tight End Glenn McPoyal has stepped up and helped fill the slot role. That takes pressure off of me and allows me to refocus my efforts on where I really want to be, which is running the ball. As far as the new Running Backs go, I really like the guys we picked up. I met with them all briefly before they were sent back down. Especially the two power backs, Gore and Rainey. That’s the role I started out in and it wasn’t the right fit for me, mostly due to health issues that came from carrying all the extra weight, but I’m hopeful that it will suit them better. As I understand it, though, the thinking was very long-term with this year’s draft. These are all guys that could have a bright future here in Yellowknife, but they’re going to have to work their way up the ladder… just like I did. That competition was what molded me into the man I am today. At the same time, if we’re being honest, this league takes its toll on you and I’m already in my 5th season. I’m not going to be playing forever. And, when that time comes to pass the torch, I’m confident that I’ll be handing it off to one of those three guys. The pressure is definitely there for me to perform if I want to stay ahead of these young bucks, but I’m not planning on making it easy for them, either.
[div align=\\\"center\\\"]![[Image: danny-amendola2.jpg?w=640]](https://nesncom.files.wordpress.com/2018/01/danny-amendola2.jpg?w=640)
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SH: If I can ask an uncomfortable question, one of the big topics in the NSFL right now is the return of Jayce Tuck from his suspension. What are your thoughts on the controversial player?
EK: It’s been a tough transition. We were really excited to get him from the Outlaws and welcomed him with open arms going into last season, but then the suspension hit and we ended up on the wrong side of that trade. Honestly, it made him a few enemies in our locker room. People felt betrayed. We were gearing up for a big season and, all of sudden, we found ourselves down a man. He was caught cheating the system and he deserved to pay the price, but it felt like we were the ones being punished for it when another team was the one that benefitted from his actions. So, a lot of resentment is still there and I can’t really blame guys for feeling that way. However, while I understand those feelings, I’m focusing on moving forward as a team. I feel like what he did was wrong, but even if you don’t feel the league came down harshly enough on him, he served the sentence that he was given and he never complained about it. I think he deserves some credit for that. The fans are free to feel how they feel and I don’t want to discourage that, but as a team, I think we have to give him a second chance and I’ve tried to champion unity in our locker room.
SH: He’s made a few controversial statements upon his return. Aren’t you worried that shows a lack of remorse?
EK: I’m not trying to speak for him. However, I imagine that he’s probably still angry over the suspension and that this is just his way of dealing with it. Maybe he knows that a lot of fans still hate him and he's just playing the part. Maybe that’s the way he really feels. I don't know. It's not a question that comes up when we talk. Personally, I just try to treat him like I treat everyone else. I don’t think the locker room is an appropriate place for an interrogation. I do know he’s had meetings with Spike and other members of our organization and I’m sure it’s been discussed in length. As his teammates, though, I think we need to stand by him. And, as long as he does his job on the field and avoids breaking any more rules, I'll continue stand by my teammate.
SH: I appreciate the honesty on the matter. I know that’s probably not going to be a popular opinion, but we’ll leave it to the fans to make up their own minds.
EK: I can only speak for our locker room. It’s not my place to tell our fans what to think.
SH: Let’s end this on a lighter topic. As a New Orleans native, what are your thought on the Las Vegas Legion’s decision to move there and rebrand their team as the New Orleans Second Line?
EK: The reaction back home has been phenomenal. It’s a city that loves football and I’m glad that the local fanbase has followed former LSU players like myself to the NSFL. I think that the league saw that following as an opportunity and I’m excited that they now have their own team to root for. The city is more than deserving of it. As far as the name goes, I’ve heard a lot of confusion toward it from fans around the league, but the city loves it. It’s a very New Orleans name that’s tied to the traditions of Mardi Gras and I think it introduces a little more of our culture to the national fanbase. I’m hoping more people will grow to like it as they learn more about our city and their fans.
SH: Have you received any pressure from locals pushing you to go there?
EK: Yellowknife is about as far away from Louisiana as you can get, so I understand the desire to see me play closer to home. And I’ve had a lot of people ask that question. Even after four years up here, I still miss my hometown very dearly and visit as often as I can. But the Wraiths organization has been really good to me and I’m very happy here. Right now, my next contract is about two years away and it’s practically the last thing on my mind. In two years, I guess we can see what happens, but that’s a long way away right now. I’m very happy to see New Orleans get their own team and I appreciate the enthusiasm of the fans that want to see me play there more than twice a year, but for these next two seasons, my only focus is on helping the Wraiths bring home an Ultimus.
2148 Words
Ready for Grading
[/div]After remaining quiet amidst an unusual level of success season last year, Wraiths RB Eric Kennedy sat down with SportsHype.net to discuss his newfound success and his goals for the current season.
SportsHype.Net: You’ve been unusually quiet since your breakout season last year. What were your thoughts on your unprecedented success during your 4th season in the league?
Eric Kennedy: Don’t jinx it? No, really. I had a lot of interview requests last year, but I wanted to stay out of it and focus on the season. I was worried that it could affect my performance if I let myself get caught up in the hype. I fought so hard to get to this point; it was never about bragging. I'm just happy that I could play such a key role in our team's success last year.
SH: That success was also met with some loud criticism.
EK: Yes and, believe me, I heard all of it. I get it, though. Anytime a player comes out of nowhere and hits a hot streak like that, people are going to question it. I was in a supporting role for so long that people had written me off, but I always knew that I’d be able to prove myself if I was given a more prominent role. And, last season, I was finally given that chance. This was never about trying to break records or steal the spotlight from anyone. I just wanted a chance to show everyone what I was capable of. I think the Yellowknife fans have known for a long time and the fans that followed me back home in New Orleans probably knew, too, but before that big season, most of the league hadn’t noticed me. And now that I’m in a starting role, I’m going to fight hard to stay there.
SH: Certainly, your performance did get noticed on a large scale. The NSFL Head Office voted you MVP, but the Player’s Association chose to honor a different player with their Most Outstanding Player award. How did that make you feel?
EK: Well, to be fair, it was a tie for MVP with the Otters’ Mike Boss, but it was an incredible honor nonetheless. He’s a tremendous player and he constantly excels at his position. Of course, the player that the association chose to honor, Jordan Yates, had a fantastic season of his own and was equally worthy of being included in that discussion. For the most part, in football, it’s very rare to see someone other than a Quarterback considered for that type of award and I think it’s great to see two Running Backs featured in that discussion. The MVP did feel a little hollow given that I didn’t have the support of the player’s association, but I still hope to win that award one day. As nice as it was to be honored by the Head Office, nothing means more to me than the support of my peers.
[div align=\\\"center\\\"]
[/div]SH: You’ve played a lot of different roles during your time so far in the league. Even before your breakout as a receiver, you utilized heavily as a blocking Fullback during your first two seasons in the league. Now, you’ve moved into the role of a traditional Running Back, currently standing at #2 in rushing yards for S6. Why is it so important for you to be successful in so many aspects of the game? Wouldn’t you rather stick to what’s worked for you so far?
EK: Well, the league is constantly changing. You’re never going to get anywhere by just sticking what’s worked before. But even if going back to the slot would guarantee the same success, being a featured Running Back was all that I ever wanted. It’s a goal that I’ve talked about a lot over these last four seasons and to finally be in a position where I’ve earned that spot means everything to me. Even when I was consistently having 100-yard games as a receiver, this was where I really wanted to be. I’m a team player, though, and that was what the team needed from me at the time. Fortunately, we’re in a position this year that’s allowed me to step out of a core receiving role and focus on running the ball. And I couldn’t be happier.
SH: The competition between Running Backs right now is as good as it’s ever been. What are your thoughts on the other Running Backs in the league?
EK: It’s so competitive right now. I think a big part of that is because we’ve had several talented players move into the position over the last two seasons. The one thing that makes me stand out is that I’ve been a Running Back since I entered the league. I’ve played other roles when I’ve been called to do so, but my designation has always been as a Running Back because that’s always been my goal. Another guy that fits that designation and has carried it well has been Boss Tweed. I have nothing but respect for him. Honestly, on any other team, he could be unstoppable, but he’s stayed with his team out of loyalty. If the Yeti can put together a winning season in the near future, Tweed is going to be a large part of the reason for that. Jordan Yates is another player that I admire and I touched on that a bit earlier, but I think we’re very comparable in our versatility. Up until recently, it’s really been a passing league and we’ve both done our best to adapt to that. It takes a creative player to find ways to reach the end zone 21 times in a season, but that desire to constantly reinvent himself has allows him to achieve that type of success. And, of course, it’s hard not to notice Owen Taylor given the impact that he’s already had this season. He’s having a monster run right now and has certainly set the bar for the rest of us so far.
SH: What are your thoughts on the S6 Rookie Class? Do you feel any pressure to perform better given that you know you have three young Running Backs on your tail now?
EK: I’ve had some talks with Spike Crown about that and I trust his judgment. Ultimately, you take the good with the bad. Part of the reason I’m even able to take on my current role is the degree to which our new Tight End Glenn McPoyal has stepped up and helped fill the slot role. That takes pressure off of me and allows me to refocus my efforts on where I really want to be, which is running the ball. As far as the new Running Backs go, I really like the guys we picked up. I met with them all briefly before they were sent back down. Especially the two power backs, Gore and Rainey. That’s the role I started out in and it wasn’t the right fit for me, mostly due to health issues that came from carrying all the extra weight, but I’m hopeful that it will suit them better. As I understand it, though, the thinking was very long-term with this year’s draft. These are all guys that could have a bright future here in Yellowknife, but they’re going to have to work their way up the ladder… just like I did. That competition was what molded me into the man I am today. At the same time, if we’re being honest, this league takes its toll on you and I’m already in my 5th season. I’m not going to be playing forever. And, when that time comes to pass the torch, I’m confident that I’ll be handing it off to one of those three guys. The pressure is definitely there for me to perform if I want to stay ahead of these young bucks, but I’m not planning on making it easy for them, either.
[div align=\\\"center\\\"]
[/div] SH: If I can ask an uncomfortable question, one of the big topics in the NSFL right now is the return of Jayce Tuck from his suspension. What are your thoughts on the controversial player?
EK: It’s been a tough transition. We were really excited to get him from the Outlaws and welcomed him with open arms going into last season, but then the suspension hit and we ended up on the wrong side of that trade. Honestly, it made him a few enemies in our locker room. People felt betrayed. We were gearing up for a big season and, all of sudden, we found ourselves down a man. He was caught cheating the system and he deserved to pay the price, but it felt like we were the ones being punished for it when another team was the one that benefitted from his actions. So, a lot of resentment is still there and I can’t really blame guys for feeling that way. However, while I understand those feelings, I’m focusing on moving forward as a team. I feel like what he did was wrong, but even if you don’t feel the league came down harshly enough on him, he served the sentence that he was given and he never complained about it. I think he deserves some credit for that. The fans are free to feel how they feel and I don’t want to discourage that, but as a team, I think we have to give him a second chance and I’ve tried to champion unity in our locker room.
SH: He’s made a few controversial statements upon his return. Aren’t you worried that shows a lack of remorse?
EK: I’m not trying to speak for him. However, I imagine that he’s probably still angry over the suspension and that this is just his way of dealing with it. Maybe he knows that a lot of fans still hate him and he's just playing the part. Maybe that’s the way he really feels. I don't know. It's not a question that comes up when we talk. Personally, I just try to treat him like I treat everyone else. I don’t think the locker room is an appropriate place for an interrogation. I do know he’s had meetings with Spike and other members of our organization and I’m sure it’s been discussed in length. As his teammates, though, I think we need to stand by him. And, as long as he does his job on the field and avoids breaking any more rules, I'll continue stand by my teammate.
SH: I appreciate the honesty on the matter. I know that’s probably not going to be a popular opinion, but we’ll leave it to the fans to make up their own minds.
EK: I can only speak for our locker room. It’s not my place to tell our fans what to think.
SH: Let’s end this on a lighter topic. As a New Orleans native, what are your thought on the Las Vegas Legion’s decision to move there and rebrand their team as the New Orleans Second Line?
EK: The reaction back home has been phenomenal. It’s a city that loves football and I’m glad that the local fanbase has followed former LSU players like myself to the NSFL. I think that the league saw that following as an opportunity and I’m excited that they now have their own team to root for. The city is more than deserving of it. As far as the name goes, I’ve heard a lot of confusion toward it from fans around the league, but the city loves it. It’s a very New Orleans name that’s tied to the traditions of Mardi Gras and I think it introduces a little more of our culture to the national fanbase. I’m hoping more people will grow to like it as they learn more about our city and their fans.
SH: Have you received any pressure from locals pushing you to go there?
EK: Yellowknife is about as far away from Louisiana as you can get, so I understand the desire to see me play closer to home. And I’ve had a lot of people ask that question. Even after four years up here, I still miss my hometown very dearly and visit as often as I can. But the Wraiths organization has been really good to me and I’m very happy here. Right now, my next contract is about two years away and it’s practically the last thing on my mind. In two years, I guess we can see what happens, but that’s a long way away right now. I’m very happy to see New Orleans get their own team and I appreciate the enthusiasm of the fans that want to see me play there more than twice a year, but for these next two seasons, my only focus is on helping the Wraiths bring home an Ultimus.
2148 Words
Ready for Grading
![[Image: welcomeBraxtonEast.png?ex=677e7b1f&is=67...y=lossless]](https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/357281973594619905/1319836335887880192/welcomeBraxtonEast.png?ex=677e7b1f&is=677d299f&hm=c03a86226787bfca2f2d024eb23c800c6f1ecd647532e0419a9d0218636d40e4&=&format=webp&quality=lossless)
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Thanks to Jangorhino for the sig.
