With the ISFL draft over and a new season approaching, it's time for Archstone to face the music and speak with the media. SO LET'S GET TO IT!
@Peterson
What are your opinions of youre New QB that youre Protecting? Ho you feel like with him behind center that will help KCC take it all next season? Additionally Chik-Fil-A or Popeyes?
Feeling pretty good about the new guy. He's already brought a lot of energy into the locker room, and you can tell that everyone, including me, feels motivated knowing we've got a dedicated guy at the helm of the offense. He's one of those mobile types too, so that'll be fun. I've been working on my agility lately so I can be quick enough to block for the guy whenever he starts rolling out. Thinking his speed and positivity combined will give our offense the edge to really start moving again. Also, absolutely Chik-Fil-A. Popeyes is great, but overall you can't beat the quality of every item on Chik-Fil-A's menu. Need to get me some of those nuggets after this, haha.
@"Jackets28"
What would be the dream ISFL team located in Florida?
THE TIBURON LANDSHARKS, ETERNAL CHAMPIONS OF SPACE, TIME, LAND, AND SEA! Nah but seriously, I'm not too good with team names, but I do know that if it's not the Landsharks, then I'd probably go with the "Orlando Crocodiles" or "Orlando Crocs". I used to use this name all the time in Madden when they allowed truly custom teams, so it's pretty nostalgic to me. Would also like a team based in the Treasure Coast of Florida, but I can't think of anything NOT pirate theme, which bugs me.
What are you most looking forward to in the ISFL?
As far as ISFL level stuff goes, I'm just looking forward to actually playing for the Hawks finally. Loved this team since week 1, and now that they're run by good friends of mine, it's basically the dream team. Also helps that instead of screaming like a banshee for the OLine to stop letting Chika get hit, I get to be the one who stops Chika from getting hit. Can't even begin to describe how deeply satisfying that, and the whole situation at Baltimore is. As far as ISFL in general goes though, I want to lead KCC to an Ultimini and win more than anything. This team deserves to be the shining star of the DSFL, and I swear I'm going to do everything I can to make it happen.
How often do you think about the fact that there isn’t an alligator based team?
You know, before now I never really thought about it. But now? I think anything alligator based is just REALLY good branding. It's honestly a missed opportunity that is hasn't been played around with more. But hey, who knows? There'll be more expansions more likely, so anything can happen.
@Billybolo53
Do you plan to stay an OL longterm? If so what about the position do you enjoy.
Definitely plan to stay OL in the longterm. It's not one of those positions that really stands out like most do, but in my opinion, it's the absolute epitome of "team player." You play OL because you want to be the foundation that lifts up the stars of the team. That's the mindset I've always had with this role, and that's the mindset I'm going to continue to have. So when KCC and Baltimore does well, I don't want the eyes to be on my results unless they're bad, because there's a bunch of really great guys who deserve that fanfare much more. Other than that, I just like being the big man blocking people. Something real satisfying about frustrating talented defenders because they can't put up any stats.
How as the draft process, did you have any idea where you would go?
I'd be lying if I said I didn't already know where I was going from a very early on point. I started out being very open minded to going to whoever, but as the draft got closer, I really only wanted to be on three teams: Baltimore, Sarasota, and OCO. I was extremely interested in those teams and great friends with the guys in charge of them, and from my understanding, the interest was mutual. I began to make it very clear that those three were the ones I wanted to go to, and while I knew this meant I'd most likely be on Baltimore, I would have been fine if it made sense for them to pass on me. No offense to the teams I didn't mention at all, because I really like the guys leading the teams, but I wanted to go to teams that had done the most work to build a connection with me before and during the scouting process. Teams that I could truly put all my passion into. So, glad things worked out like they did.
What is the team you are most looking forward to playing against in the ISFL?
I'd have to say the team I'm looking forward to facing the most is the Berlin Fire Salamanders. Germany's a country I have a lot of love for, so the prospect of a team there was really exciting to see. So that, combined with facing off against a brand new team full of a lot of big time trusted players should make for a really exciting time.
@Rusfan
How upset are you that you didn't go to Colorado
Honestly, I really like the Yeti's, but I can't say I'm too torn. I always tend to prefer going to teams that aren't as proven as the others, and while I know the Yeti were that exact sort of team for quite a while, the current Yeti's are something else! So honestly, I'm more excited to play against them than to play for them, just because I get to keep up my underdog shtick, haha.
@Asked Madden
What is your favourite flavour of milk?
CHOCCY MILK Strawberry milk, absolutely. I've always felt that it had the most flavor out of the milk flavors, along with the sweetest taste. Chocolate milk is definitely up there, but it ABSOLUTELY depends. Some chocolate milk, like ones made using that Hershey chocolate syrup, just suck. No flavor at all. Which is funny considering their strawberry version is pretty good.
What's been the most difficult part of becoming a GM in your first year?
The hardest part has honestly been keeping track of everything. There's so many different things you need to be aware of at any given moment, and if you're even the slightest bit careless, next thing you know you've got your own punishment thread. There's a lot to know and be aware of, so you can't afford to let yourself get lost in anything. It took me a while to get over that hurdle of keeping up with the flow of information and rules, especially since I had no training before taking over as GM, but it is absolutely something you need to be able to get past or you won't be able to survive in the position.
What advice would you give a budding GM hopeful?
So, with in mind how hard it is to keep track of so many moving pieces over the course of both season and off season, it should go without saying that keeping lists (We use a shared google doc in KCC) that include EVERYTHING you could need to know a moment's notice, as in what your depth chart looks like, links to player update threads, and so forth is very important to have. Anything that can make it easier to quickly access information or things you have planned to do go a long way in holding you and everyone in the war room accountable. Additionally, making sure the people supporting you in the war room are really committed and good for the position is important. You can't afford to make the war room a hangout zone. While it may feel bad to reject people, you need to make sure you're surrounding yourself in that room with people who are going to do what they can for the team, same as you. I was lucky to inherit a war room full of amazing people who all have the best interest of KCC in mind, and all the S25 guys I invited in have made some very key contributions that have really made my life easier. And trust me, when you're in this spot, you're going to want things to be really easy.
Who's going to win the S25 ultimus? (and why is it San Jose?)
That's a weird way to spell BALTIMORE. But honestly? I see Sarasota taking it all this season. That team was REALLY good, and while they came up short, the team to stop them was one of the greatest in the ISFL. With the Yeti losing some key pieces, I feel like Sarasota can put together a run similar to last season and finish the job this time around. It's S26 that you guys all gotta worry about, as my Hawks shall be complete by then.
How many waifu pillows do the KCC locker room share?
None, believe it or not! I've tried really hard to share mine before, but everyone just keeps saying "Not right now" or "Maybe later." I don't get it. That being said, there may or may not be at least 20 waifu pillows scattered around KCC. We'll never confirm. Though, we can confirm the Emilia pillow is 100% off limits to anyone who isn't me. (Author's note: I don't own any waifu pillows in real life. I swear I'm clean)
@Jo3fish5
How do u feel playing for the hawks
I'm super excited about it! I've loved this team since joining the league pretty much, and now I'm getting to play for two of my favorite GMs, while also protecting my favorite QB in the league. Honestly can't ask for anything better than that!
@siddhus
Ily
Love you too, buddy. Always a pleasure getting to talk with you whenever you're around. Maybe one day we'll be able to get you into that war room.
@Peterson
What are your opinions of youre New QB that youre Protecting? Ho you feel like with him behind center that will help KCC take it all next season? Additionally Chik-Fil-A or Popeyes?
Feeling pretty good about the new guy. He's already brought a lot of energy into the locker room, and you can tell that everyone, including me, feels motivated knowing we've got a dedicated guy at the helm of the offense. He's one of those mobile types too, so that'll be fun. I've been working on my agility lately so I can be quick enough to block for the guy whenever he starts rolling out. Thinking his speed and positivity combined will give our offense the edge to really start moving again. Also, absolutely Chik-Fil-A. Popeyes is great, but overall you can't beat the quality of every item on Chik-Fil-A's menu. Need to get me some of those nuggets after this, haha.
@"Jackets28"
What would be the dream ISFL team located in Florida?
THE TIBURON LANDSHARKS, ETERNAL CHAMPIONS OF SPACE, TIME, LAND, AND SEA! Nah but seriously, I'm not too good with team names, but I do know that if it's not the Landsharks, then I'd probably go with the "Orlando Crocodiles" or "Orlando Crocs". I used to use this name all the time in Madden when they allowed truly custom teams, so it's pretty nostalgic to me. Would also like a team based in the Treasure Coast of Florida, but I can't think of anything NOT pirate theme, which bugs me.
What are you most looking forward to in the ISFL?
As far as ISFL level stuff goes, I'm just looking forward to actually playing for the Hawks finally. Loved this team since week 1, and now that they're run by good friends of mine, it's basically the dream team. Also helps that instead of screaming like a banshee for the OLine to stop letting Chika get hit, I get to be the one who stops Chika from getting hit. Can't even begin to describe how deeply satisfying that, and the whole situation at Baltimore is. As far as ISFL in general goes though, I want to lead KCC to an Ultimini and win more than anything. This team deserves to be the shining star of the DSFL, and I swear I'm going to do everything I can to make it happen.
How often do you think about the fact that there isn’t an alligator based team?
You know, before now I never really thought about it. But now? I think anything alligator based is just REALLY good branding. It's honestly a missed opportunity that is hasn't been played around with more. But hey, who knows? There'll be more expansions more likely, so anything can happen.
@Billybolo53
Do you plan to stay an OL longterm? If so what about the position do you enjoy.
Definitely plan to stay OL in the longterm. It's not one of those positions that really stands out like most do, but in my opinion, it's the absolute epitome of "team player." You play OL because you want to be the foundation that lifts up the stars of the team. That's the mindset I've always had with this role, and that's the mindset I'm going to continue to have. So when KCC and Baltimore does well, I don't want the eyes to be on my results unless they're bad, because there's a bunch of really great guys who deserve that fanfare much more. Other than that, I just like being the big man blocking people. Something real satisfying about frustrating talented defenders because they can't put up any stats.
How as the draft process, did you have any idea where you would go?
I'd be lying if I said I didn't already know where I was going from a very early on point. I started out being very open minded to going to whoever, but as the draft got closer, I really only wanted to be on three teams: Baltimore, Sarasota, and OCO. I was extremely interested in those teams and great friends with the guys in charge of them, and from my understanding, the interest was mutual. I began to make it very clear that those three were the ones I wanted to go to, and while I knew this meant I'd most likely be on Baltimore, I would have been fine if it made sense for them to pass on me. No offense to the teams I didn't mention at all, because I really like the guys leading the teams, but I wanted to go to teams that had done the most work to build a connection with me before and during the scouting process. Teams that I could truly put all my passion into. So, glad things worked out like they did.
What is the team you are most looking forward to playing against in the ISFL?
I'd have to say the team I'm looking forward to facing the most is the Berlin Fire Salamanders. Germany's a country I have a lot of love for, so the prospect of a team there was really exciting to see. So that, combined with facing off against a brand new team full of a lot of big time trusted players should make for a really exciting time.
@Rusfan
How upset are you that you didn't go to Colorado
Honestly, I really like the Yeti's, but I can't say I'm too torn. I always tend to prefer going to teams that aren't as proven as the others, and while I know the Yeti were that exact sort of team for quite a while, the current Yeti's are something else! So honestly, I'm more excited to play against them than to play for them, just because I get to keep up my underdog shtick, haha.
@Asked Madden
What is your favourite flavour of milk?
CHOCCY MILK Strawberry milk, absolutely. I've always felt that it had the most flavor out of the milk flavors, along with the sweetest taste. Chocolate milk is definitely up there, but it ABSOLUTELY depends. Some chocolate milk, like ones made using that Hershey chocolate syrup, just suck. No flavor at all. Which is funny considering their strawberry version is pretty good.
What's been the most difficult part of becoming a GM in your first year?
The hardest part has honestly been keeping track of everything. There's so many different things you need to be aware of at any given moment, and if you're even the slightest bit careless, next thing you know you've got your own punishment thread. There's a lot to know and be aware of, so you can't afford to let yourself get lost in anything. It took me a while to get over that hurdle of keeping up with the flow of information and rules, especially since I had no training before taking over as GM, but it is absolutely something you need to be able to get past or you won't be able to survive in the position.
What advice would you give a budding GM hopeful?
So, with in mind how hard it is to keep track of so many moving pieces over the course of both season and off season, it should go without saying that keeping lists (We use a shared google doc in KCC) that include EVERYTHING you could need to know a moment's notice, as in what your depth chart looks like, links to player update threads, and so forth is very important to have. Anything that can make it easier to quickly access information or things you have planned to do go a long way in holding you and everyone in the war room accountable. Additionally, making sure the people supporting you in the war room are really committed and good for the position is important. You can't afford to make the war room a hangout zone. While it may feel bad to reject people, you need to make sure you're surrounding yourself in that room with people who are going to do what they can for the team, same as you. I was lucky to inherit a war room full of amazing people who all have the best interest of KCC in mind, and all the S25 guys I invited in have made some very key contributions that have really made my life easier. And trust me, when you're in this spot, you're going to want things to be really easy.
Who's going to win the S25 ultimus? (and why is it San Jose?)
That's a weird way to spell BALTIMORE. But honestly? I see Sarasota taking it all this season. That team was REALLY good, and while they came up short, the team to stop them was one of the greatest in the ISFL. With the Yeti losing some key pieces, I feel like Sarasota can put together a run similar to last season and finish the job this time around. It's S26 that you guys all gotta worry about, as my Hawks shall be complete by then.
How many waifu pillows do the KCC locker room share?
None, believe it or not! I've tried really hard to share mine before, but everyone just keeps saying "Not right now" or "Maybe later." I don't get it. That being said, there may or may not be at least 20 waifu pillows scattered around KCC. We'll never confirm. Though, we can confirm the Emilia pillow is 100% off limits to anyone who isn't me. (Author's note: I don't own any waifu pillows in real life. I swear I'm clean)
@Jo3fish5
How do u feel playing for the hawks
I'm super excited about it! I've loved this team since joining the league pretty much, and now I'm getting to play for two of my favorite GMs, while also protecting my favorite QB in the league. Honestly can't ask for anything better than that!
@siddhus
Ily
Love you too, buddy. Always a pleasure getting to talk with you whenever you're around. Maybe one day we'll be able to get you into that war room.