03-06-2020, 10:45 PM
(This post was last modified: 03-06-2020, 10:48 PM by speculadora.)
Remon Kurisuto’s responses to the following interview were translated, and may include slight interpretive alterations to Kurisuto's responses.
Prince Vegeta was unable to make the interview due to him having an interview with Taylor Rooks for her show “Take It There”. His interview responses will be forwarded by his agent, Mr. Lemon, as a result.
Congratulations on being drafted to the Otters! What was your first reaction when you learned you were headed to Orange County?
Shakir Ahmed: I was ecstatic because it came on the heels of other great news as well (my girlfriend bought popeyes!). In all seriousness, I was working on a project and keeping one eye peeled to the draft stream and when my name came up in the 6th round I was so happy, especially when it’s Laser and Orange County. Getting drafted along with Jeffie and Rapid is also fun as fuck and I can't wait to get started with a vibrant and lively locker room.
Douglas Quail: I was very excited when my name came up on the big board, I was ecstatic to end up on the Otters. I've heard great things about their locker room and of course landing with a perennial Ultimus contender is amazing as well.
Rapid Eagle: I was excited as hell when I was selected by the Otters with the 13th overall pick. Going into the draft I had a general idea that I would be a late first to early second round pick. Although I would be lying if I wasn't a little disappointed when I initially slipped out of the first round, I thought if there was any chance if be heading to Yellowknife Wraiths at pick nine since I probably had the most talks with them and Philly before the draft. Seeing some guys I know I'm better then go in front of me just put a chip on my shoulder but when I saw my name called to the Otters I was simply ecstatic. Joining such a prestigious team was an honor. Not to mention how much I love the rest of our draft class joining a team with my friends being drafted here.
Larry Longshot: My first reaction when I realized I was an Otter was pure excitement. I was not expecting it while I had some other hints as to where I was going to go which turned out all untrue and I am glad to be an Otter. As a kid I always liked going to the Zoo and Otters were always very cool to me, made me think of my childhood for a little bit.
Ryan Scott: My first reaction was just shock and awe. Being drafted to a historic team like the Otters was an honor. I heard a lot of things about the Otters when I first came into the league and always thought that I would love to play for a team like that. Now here I am, a fresh Otter looking to put my mark and place in history. It took me a few minutes after my name was called to realize that I had actually been drafted, and then when I saw that it was the Otters that drafted me my jaw hit the floor. I couldn’t believe that a team as storied as the Otters were willing to take a chance on a player that had fallen off a little bit. Now that the initial shock is done and over with, I’m still just honored to be a part of this franchise and look forward to bringing multiple championships back to Orange County.
Remon Kurisuto: Watching the draft stream in the middle of the night while in Japan, I was very tired and very drowsy. However, seeing my name appear on the screen, drafted by the Orange County Otters, woke me up immediately. To be drafted by a team with such a great reputation brought me so much joy. As well, I had already seen long-time friends Prince Vegeta and Rapid Eagle picked up, and I could not wait to be reunited with them in the clubhouse. Although Japan is normally very quiet, I was so excited that I had to wake my parents immediately. The next day, we invited many people over for a celebration. It meant so much to me that many people in Japan were excited for my success in accomplishing a life-long dream.
Prince Vegeta: Thank you for the warm welcome and the congratulations, it means a lot! The Orange County Otters are a team with a lot of history in the NSFL, they have made the Conference Championships every season outside of 1 and have a long history of having great GMs going from Molar to Spec and now to Laser (These are just the ones I know off the top of my head). They’re easily the most dominant team in all of NSFL and the fact that they traded up to get someone like me is pretty fuckin’ crazy.
Here I’ll put it like this. I love this team. From top to bottom, start off with one of my favorite low-key people and reigning NSFL MVP, Franklin Armstrong. Laser and Rev are two people who have helped me a lot when it comes to basic league stuff and they’re super awesome and kind, both of them will always have a special place in my heart. Spec is an old man who needs caring sometimes or he can get lonely, so it’s nice to help the elderly every now and then. Kacey was my former GM and a Cornerback that every DSFL DB looks up to at this point.
Add these people with the fact that they had drafted a bunch of my good friends and boom, you’ve got a perfect landing spot. All blabbering aside, I’m super fucking stoked to be on this team, I’m excited to be on a great team with great people and it’s going to be an absolute blast and I look forward to this upcoming season.
How did the actual draft compare to your expectations of it? Did you go higher or lower than you expected? Any picks that surprised you?
Shakir Ahmed: Honestly because of my early on inactivity I thought I wasn’t going to make it out. I became more active as the season went on and Laser and the team understood that when they drafted me. Sure I would love to be like the 1st overall pick but being in the 6th round gives me a chip on my shoulder and I can’t wait to start my journey in the NSFL
Douglas Quail: I didn’t expect to be drafted in the first few rounds, but I did expect to be the first OL off the board given my pretty solid season in the DSFL. It was quite disappointing when things didn’t work out that way, but at least the honour went to a fellow Buccaneer.
Rapid Eagle: Like I said in my first answer before the draft I had a general idea that I would be going late in the first round or early second round pick which is where I went. I definitely was surprised by Juniped going to Philly, but not so much when I learned he'd be switching positions. The biggest surprise for me was seeing Jimbo Jr. go above me in the draft.
Larry Longshot: I was genuinely happy with where I went in the draft. I didn’t put up any eye opening numbers last season, but I think that was partially due to the stacked defense Myrtle Beach had. Being picked 26th is great especially all the talent that was on the draft board. I am ready to prove all the coaches wrong about taking other DE’s before me.
Ryan Scott: I definitely went higher than I expected. My activity and training went down in the middle of last season due to some real life circumstances. I actually thought that I had dropped off of everyone’s radar due to my lack of updates but the Otters took a chance on me much earlier than I anticipated. I’m really looking forward to getting back into the swing of things and starting the new season off strong. There were some picks that surprised me like Hehateme Picksix falling to 4. He is a guy at a premium position that has always been active and updating, but I’m sure there were team situations and positional needs that went into him falling down the list a bit. Other than that the draft was absolutely fantastic and I think that the team that runs it does a great job on the production of the draft and the speakers do a really nice job making sure each pick gets a little blurb about them. It really makes it awesome for those of us getting drafted.
Remon Kurisuto: I was surprised both to go that late, and that early. It is very difficult to describe the feeling. You wish to be recognized for your talent and be drafted early, but it is such a relief to be drafted in any position, especially as early as 23rd. I was particularly surprised to see Dax Frost be drafted so late. I remember I had predicted Dax Frost to be selected first overall in the entire draft, but he was instead drafted 29th. I was both inspired that I was drafted before him, but also so surprised at his position in the draft.
Prince Vegeta: I figured I was going to go in the top 3 of the draft at the end of the day, as a defensive player and someone with the highest TPE in the class it more likely than not that I was going to go early in the draft, although there probably have been bigger surprises.
For starters, Juniped Catfish going in the 1st round to the Philadelphia Liberty with the 3rd overall pick did shock me. However, the more I thought about it, the more sense it made. Philadelphia is a team that prides itself on the people in their LR, Juniped at the same time, is also someone who is well known across the community for being one of the most supportive and wholesome people. Together it was a match made in heaven and toss in the fact that Juni was willing to switch positions, is a big earner and just got a Co-GM job? Call it a wrap.
In the same round, the Second Line decided to pick Dorfus Jimbo Jr. at 8th overall. Currently, Dorfus is ranked 41st in TPE. Do I need to repeat that again? 41st! I don’t care about connections, I don’t care about how active he is on discord, he’s a horrible earner and doesn’t deserve to be taken with a 1st round pick plain and simple.
What are your first impressions of the team? Are there any players you were drafted with or vets that you're excited to be playing with?
Shakir Ahmed: Like I said earlier getting drafted with Jeffie and Rapid is great. I’ve known both from different servers for a while now and being on the same team and Orange County to be that team is amazing. As for the vets I know about the great Armstrong and players like Biggums, Lattimer, etc. Everyone is really nice and has expectations as high as I do.
Douglas Quail: First impressions have been great, the locker room has been great, the GM has been open to salary requirements and the facilities are world class. Training against Rapid Eagle was key for each of our developments back in the Beach, and I can’t wait to continue going up against him each and every day in training.
Rapid Eagle: My first impressions with the team were great. Everyone already on the team was super welcoming. Kacey Dream was a GM of my DSFL team the Myrtle Beach Buccaneers so it was awesome to share a locker room with him again. Then there's the rest of the Otters draft class, in really excited to play alongside all of them. I've been friends with Prince Vegeta for a few years now so playing with him again will be awesome as well as Larry Longshot, Douglas Quail, Shakir Ahmed, and Remon Kurisuto. I just know that the locker room environment is going to awesome in Orange County and that we will win a lot of games.
Larry Longshot: I am excited to play with some of the MLR/MLN groups that we have here in Orange County. Between Cash, Jeffrey, JZ and Remon, I believe it will be a fun season to interact with them about the game. Coming into a team where I already know most of the guys will be a fun time for sure.
Ryan Scott: My impression of the team so far has been fantastic. The team seems really close knit and the way people interact is great. This is one of the best team locker rooms that I have seen so far in the NSFL, and it definitely shows in the team’s success over the years. I’m looking forward to playing with Larry Longshot, Vegeta, and JZ. These are guys that I joined with and have played in other leagues with so we already have a pretty good relationship. Joining a team with friends like this is what makes the game even more fun. As for veteran players to play with, I don’t think I could pick just one. All of the current players have been great, and I’m going to look forward to the first game when I get to put on the Otters uniform and head onto the field with all of my teammates as we defend the colors.
Remon Kurisuto: The Orange County Otters have been very welcoming to all the new players, myself included. I could not ask for a more friendly team to join. The veterans of the team have been very humble, yet focused: traits that I particularly admire. Many of them have also offered to or already have helped with my personal training. I am sure that they will be excellent mentors in taking my training and performance to the next level. As I mentioned earlier on, I know both Prince Vegeta and Rapid Eagle, who were drafted before me. Of those drafted later than me, I also know Larry Longshot and Ryan Scott. I believe we will be able to coordinate easily on and off the field, and make the clubhouse an even greater place to be.
Prince Vegeta: I love the team, they have a crazy history in this league, have a ton of familiar faces for me and gave me that feeling of comfort I value highly. I’m excited to have an opportunity to play for the greatest organization in NSFL history and play in what could potentially be the best defense in the NSFL...in my rookie season.
Rapid Eagle, Doug Quail and Larry Longshot were my former teammates in Myrtle Beach, all of them were instrumental in our season where we went 12-2 and it would be awesome getting to replicate that success in the big leagues. Ryan Scott, JZ and Cam’Ron West are all people I knew from other leagues and it’s awesome to be able to get the chance to finally play with them.
What are you most looking forward to next season, whether you're returning to your DSFL team or playing in the pros trying to help us win another title?
Shakir Ahmed: As a pro I am looking forward to filling a void this team has and playing up to my potential. If it is being a big body target in the red zone or being a safety valve for Armstrong, or if it’s blocking, I’m ready to do whatever it takes to win.
Douglas Quail: I'll most likely be spending another season or two in the DSFL, so the main goal is to help the Buccaneers win the Ultimini. We came up just short last season after a great campaign, and just need a little experience to put us over the top, hopefully that’s something I can contribute. On a personal level, I'd like to have another sackless season and be in the running for Offensive Lineman of the Year again.
Rapid Eagle: Getting to the Ultimini in my rookie year was an awesome experience with Myrtle Beach, however coming up short in the biggest game hurt. So I'd say I'm looking forward to helping this team win another Ultimus. Getting some awards would be nice after losing DLOTY in DSFL. Although the main goals in the NSFL will be to have fun, hit opposing quarterbacks and win games.
Larry Longshot: I am looking forward to improving as a player and communicating with the team. I am most likely going to be playing in DSFL next season, so I am looking forward to crushing some rookies. They won’t know what's coming at them.
Ryan Scott: I’m looking forward to being the best player I can be, plain and simple. I not only let my teammates down last season for not training as much as I should have as we headed into the playoffs, but I let myself down for not doing as well as I know i can do. I have a lot of pride in the fact that I go out there every day and work as hard as I can to become the best player I can be, and I didn’t do that at the end of the year which is frustrating to me because I didn’t reach the goals I had set out for myself at the beginning of the year. I’m going to come out strong this year and make sure I stay strong throughout the entire season as I head back to the Norfolk Seawolves, looking to win the Ultimini.
Remon Kurisuto: I am so excited to see the crowds and feel part of a coordinated bigger picture. I hope to give my absolute all to help the Orange County Otters achieve their goals and win another title. I am also ready to take on the mentoring of some S22 rookies, as an alumni of the Norfolk Seawolves. A great friend of mine, Juniped Catfish, will be a General Manager of the Norfolk Seawolves this season, and I intend to stay in contact with the members as I progress through my NSFL career. Finally, I have also been hired as a DSFL Updater, and am looking forward to the large paychecks that the job boasts. I am ready to live the NSFL life.
Prince Vegeta: One of the things I’m looking forward to would be balling out at the next level. I feel like I played really well in the DSFL last season and coming into this season with close to 400 TPE I have some high expectations for my player in his first season. After finishing runner up in DBoTY in the DSFL Awards and 3rd in DRoTY voting (Should have come first but that’s a topic for another day).
Another thing I’m looking forward to is the ability to compete for an Ultimus right off the bat. Not many players get the opportunity to compete on one of the best teams in the league in their first season and getting the chance to do so is crazy. I love Laser and Rev for believing in me and giving me this chance and it truly means a lot, even if part of me wishes I got the chance to run it back with Myrtle Beach.
What does it mean to you to be playing for a team with the Otters' history? Are you excited by it or do you maybe feel more pressure because of it?
Shakir Ahmed: I know about the Otter’s history and all its prestige, but that’s in the past. What makes this team great is how it takes it season by season. Every season the goal is the same: to win it all, and I fuck with that mentality and I think I fit in well with it. I want to win and with this group of players I feel like the sky is the limit.
Douglas Quail: The Otters continued success obviously speaks for itself, and it certainly does add some pressure, but at the end of the day it's our job to go out each week and do what we can to help the team win, and that’s true no matter what franchise you play for.
Rapid Eagle: Definitely excited more than anything else. Coming from a successful DSFL team I don't think being on a winning team will be pressure. It's a special thing to be part of such a winning franchise. The culture is already established and everyone expects to win it all. I believe I will thrive in this environment because winning is what I expect from myself. I will do everything in my power to get better and help this team get back to the Ultimus game and bring that trophy back to Orange County.
Larry Longshot: I am excited to eventually play for the Otters and dominate as much as we already have in previous seasons. I enjoy being on a team that people are afraid of and being known as the team to beat all season long. It helps with shit talking, especially when my good friends are on opposing teams that we will destroy.
Ryan Scott: I think it’s a little bit of both. When it comes to playing for a team like the Otters you get excited because you have a chance to be a part of that history and hopefully leave your mark on it. You strive to make sure that the team you are on wins the whole thing, and you do everything in your power to make that happen. At the same time, it’s a lot of pressure to make sure that you are performing at the level that the team name comes with. All I can do as a player is make sure I’m as prepared as I can be and go out on the field and give it everything that I have.
Remon Kurisuto: The history of the Orange County Otters is extremely important to me. I have always been raised to uphold the traditions and expectations of my ancestors, and I consider the Orange County Otters my football family. This means that I will do whatever is necessary to meet or match the performance of the previous Orange County Otters players. This team has a rich history of success, and it will not end with this generation.
Prince Vegeta: It’s definitely exciting that’s for sure. Getting the chance to play for such a historical great team is a truly amazing opportunity. I’m looking forward to the challenge of keeping that trend going as well as learning whatever I can from Laser, Rev, Spec and Molar whenever possible. As a rookie I still have a lot to learn when it comes to the inner workings of the league and I’m excited to have this learning opportunity while playing for the best run organization in the league. In regards to pressure, not really. I know what I can do and so does the team. I’m a guy who will do anything to benefit his team and teammates and that’s what I plan on bringing to the LR and the field every day.
With a season of experience under your belt now after spending a season in the DSFL, what do you think is going to be your biggest improvement from your rookie season?
Shakir Ahmed: As a rookie it’s been up and down. The lack of activity hurt overall through the season. Off the bat I was one of if not the best of all the TE but without being active I didn’t level up fast enough. I’m ready to level up this season and work on my player to the best of my ability. Like I said with this team I have some working to do to be able to be neck and neck with my peers.
Douglas Quail: I have to get the elusive 69 pancake season. That’s the dream. Beyond not allowing any sacks like my first season, that’s the only real individual goal I have.
Rapid Eagle: My rookie season in tbe DSFL I had the most sacks by a defensive linemen and second most tackles by a defensive tackle. Although the stat I was lacking in most was tackles for a loss, only recording three. So that's where I believe I'll have my biggest improvement at the next level. I trained hard on my speed and strength in the developmental league but now that I'm focusing on tackling and strength I will be able to get to running backs in the backfield more often.
Larry Longshot: I believe that I will come in stronger, faster, and be able to read the play before it happens. I was learning the basics of the change from college football to the pro’s, so now I believe I have what it takes to be the best.
Ryan Scott: My biggest improvement is going to be on making sure I’m training in the right areas. I spent some early training days working on the wrong things and it set me back for a little while. Now that I know what I need to work for, and where I need to improve people should only expect the best from me going forward. I’m only going to get faster and stronger, so running backs and quarterbacks beware. I’m coming for you.
Remon Kurisuto: During my time with the Norfolk Seawolves, I struggled to effectively communicate on the field in English, causing many costly mistakes during play execution. Throughout the season, I spent time learning the names of plays, and the terminology to understand and express ideas within football. Unfortunately, American Football is not a popular sport in Japan, so it can be difficult to find translations for these ideas online or in dictionaries. Although my English is still far from academic, I feel much more comfortable on the field and hope to make a change from last season's errors.
Prince Vegeta: After learning how to test sim and learning more about individual attributes I feel like I’m now a lot more prepared for a full season in comparison to last season when I had no idea what to do or what to expect. But now with a season of experience under my belt, I feel like I’m ready to make some major progress this season and take yet another step forward in my career. My biggest improvement will probably be my build and my player. I have plans to make some big changes there and hopefully it all works out and helps me become a difference maker for the Otters.
Again, whether you’re being called up or not, what are your expectations for your team and your player this upcoming season? What about long term?
Shakir Ahmed: Looking long-term, I want to be the greatest TE ever and to achieve my goal I need to set mini goals. My first goal is to have a great campaign. Checking stats, the leading TEs were around 600-800 yards and 3-6 TD, and I want to reach those heights in my first year here. However more than anything I want to win with my team.
Douglas Quail: One thing that Orange County and Myrtle Beach have in common is a winning culture. Regardless of which team I dress for next season, the goal will be the same. Make the postseason and win the Ultimus.
Rapid Eagle: My expectations for myself is to be the very best in can be and always getting better. I feel like I'm coming off a successful rookie season so I expect only to get better. For my team I expect to have fun and win as many games as possible. Orange County has a winning history in the league and I don't expect that to go away especially after this strong draft class. If anything this draft is going to extend that Ultimus window even longer. Over my career the hall of fame is definitely a good place to shoot for but as long as I'm having fun with my team being the best I know I can be I'll consider my career successful.
Larry Longshot: I expect nothing but a trophy. If we achieve anything less I would be disappointed with the high caliber of players we have on the team. For the long term, I hope we can bring in more talent to the team as it is just going to get better from here.
Ryan Scott: For this season, I want to lead the DSFL in tackles. I’m building my player to be in the middle of every play and I expect to do just that. As for the long term performance of my player, I just want to be a consistent performer that helps the Otters win championships. They say that defense wins championships, and I intend on making sure the defense that I’m on is lethal and absolutely constricting to any other team’s offenses as they make their way through Orange County.
Remon Kurisuto: This season, the Orange County Otters have many new players, but we are a powerful rookie class. I believe this team has aggregated some of the best players within this draft class, and we show no signs of slowing down. Although we may take some time to adjust to the difference in skill between the DSFL and the NSFL, I believe that next season, and the one after, we will be a truly impeccable team, ready to dominate the absolute best teams in either conference. As time progresses, I believe this team also contains all the necessary components to raise excellent successors in the next generation. For these reasons, I see the Orange County Otters soon arising to an all-time high in coordination and execution both on and off the field.
Prince Vegeta: I want to win Defensive Rookie of The Year. I was robbed of the award in the DSFL but following my big offseason I feel like I could definitely make some noise in the NSFL for the same award. Statistically I have no idea what to expect so far as I haven’t done any test sims yet.
As for my team, I want to win this division and show up Austin right away. I probably sound like a broken record at this point but the Otters have dominated the league for 20 seasons now and I plan on doing my best to keep that going. I would personally love to see us win one right off the bat.
Prince Vegeta was unable to make the interview due to him having an interview with Taylor Rooks for her show “Take It There”. His interview responses will be forwarded by his agent, Mr. Lemon, as a result.
Congratulations on being drafted to the Otters! What was your first reaction when you learned you were headed to Orange County?
Shakir Ahmed: I was ecstatic because it came on the heels of other great news as well (my girlfriend bought popeyes!). In all seriousness, I was working on a project and keeping one eye peeled to the draft stream and when my name came up in the 6th round I was so happy, especially when it’s Laser and Orange County. Getting drafted along with Jeffie and Rapid is also fun as fuck and I can't wait to get started with a vibrant and lively locker room.
Douglas Quail: I was very excited when my name came up on the big board, I was ecstatic to end up on the Otters. I've heard great things about their locker room and of course landing with a perennial Ultimus contender is amazing as well.
Rapid Eagle: I was excited as hell when I was selected by the Otters with the 13th overall pick. Going into the draft I had a general idea that I would be a late first to early second round pick. Although I would be lying if I wasn't a little disappointed when I initially slipped out of the first round, I thought if there was any chance if be heading to Yellowknife Wraiths at pick nine since I probably had the most talks with them and Philly before the draft. Seeing some guys I know I'm better then go in front of me just put a chip on my shoulder but when I saw my name called to the Otters I was simply ecstatic. Joining such a prestigious team was an honor. Not to mention how much I love the rest of our draft class joining a team with my friends being drafted here.
Larry Longshot: My first reaction when I realized I was an Otter was pure excitement. I was not expecting it while I had some other hints as to where I was going to go which turned out all untrue and I am glad to be an Otter. As a kid I always liked going to the Zoo and Otters were always very cool to me, made me think of my childhood for a little bit.
Ryan Scott: My first reaction was just shock and awe. Being drafted to a historic team like the Otters was an honor. I heard a lot of things about the Otters when I first came into the league and always thought that I would love to play for a team like that. Now here I am, a fresh Otter looking to put my mark and place in history. It took me a few minutes after my name was called to realize that I had actually been drafted, and then when I saw that it was the Otters that drafted me my jaw hit the floor. I couldn’t believe that a team as storied as the Otters were willing to take a chance on a player that had fallen off a little bit. Now that the initial shock is done and over with, I’m still just honored to be a part of this franchise and look forward to bringing multiple championships back to Orange County.
Remon Kurisuto: Watching the draft stream in the middle of the night while in Japan, I was very tired and very drowsy. However, seeing my name appear on the screen, drafted by the Orange County Otters, woke me up immediately. To be drafted by a team with such a great reputation brought me so much joy. As well, I had already seen long-time friends Prince Vegeta and Rapid Eagle picked up, and I could not wait to be reunited with them in the clubhouse. Although Japan is normally very quiet, I was so excited that I had to wake my parents immediately. The next day, we invited many people over for a celebration. It meant so much to me that many people in Japan were excited for my success in accomplishing a life-long dream.
Prince Vegeta: Thank you for the warm welcome and the congratulations, it means a lot! The Orange County Otters are a team with a lot of history in the NSFL, they have made the Conference Championships every season outside of 1 and have a long history of having great GMs going from Molar to Spec and now to Laser (These are just the ones I know off the top of my head). They’re easily the most dominant team in all of NSFL and the fact that they traded up to get someone like me is pretty fuckin’ crazy.
Here I’ll put it like this. I love this team. From top to bottom, start off with one of my favorite low-key people and reigning NSFL MVP, Franklin Armstrong. Laser and Rev are two people who have helped me a lot when it comes to basic league stuff and they’re super awesome and kind, both of them will always have a special place in my heart. Spec is an old man who needs caring sometimes or he can get lonely, so it’s nice to help the elderly every now and then. Kacey was my former GM and a Cornerback that every DSFL DB looks up to at this point.
Add these people with the fact that they had drafted a bunch of my good friends and boom, you’ve got a perfect landing spot. All blabbering aside, I’m super fucking stoked to be on this team, I’m excited to be on a great team with great people and it’s going to be an absolute blast and I look forward to this upcoming season.
How did the actual draft compare to your expectations of it? Did you go higher or lower than you expected? Any picks that surprised you?
Shakir Ahmed: Honestly because of my early on inactivity I thought I wasn’t going to make it out. I became more active as the season went on and Laser and the team understood that when they drafted me. Sure I would love to be like the 1st overall pick but being in the 6th round gives me a chip on my shoulder and I can’t wait to start my journey in the NSFL
Douglas Quail: I didn’t expect to be drafted in the first few rounds, but I did expect to be the first OL off the board given my pretty solid season in the DSFL. It was quite disappointing when things didn’t work out that way, but at least the honour went to a fellow Buccaneer.
Rapid Eagle: Like I said in my first answer before the draft I had a general idea that I would be going late in the first round or early second round pick which is where I went. I definitely was surprised by Juniped going to Philly, but not so much when I learned he'd be switching positions. The biggest surprise for me was seeing Jimbo Jr. go above me in the draft.
Larry Longshot: I was genuinely happy with where I went in the draft. I didn’t put up any eye opening numbers last season, but I think that was partially due to the stacked defense Myrtle Beach had. Being picked 26th is great especially all the talent that was on the draft board. I am ready to prove all the coaches wrong about taking other DE’s before me.
Ryan Scott: I definitely went higher than I expected. My activity and training went down in the middle of last season due to some real life circumstances. I actually thought that I had dropped off of everyone’s radar due to my lack of updates but the Otters took a chance on me much earlier than I anticipated. I’m really looking forward to getting back into the swing of things and starting the new season off strong. There were some picks that surprised me like Hehateme Picksix falling to 4. He is a guy at a premium position that has always been active and updating, but I’m sure there were team situations and positional needs that went into him falling down the list a bit. Other than that the draft was absolutely fantastic and I think that the team that runs it does a great job on the production of the draft and the speakers do a really nice job making sure each pick gets a little blurb about them. It really makes it awesome for those of us getting drafted.
Remon Kurisuto: I was surprised both to go that late, and that early. It is very difficult to describe the feeling. You wish to be recognized for your talent and be drafted early, but it is such a relief to be drafted in any position, especially as early as 23rd. I was particularly surprised to see Dax Frost be drafted so late. I remember I had predicted Dax Frost to be selected first overall in the entire draft, but he was instead drafted 29th. I was both inspired that I was drafted before him, but also so surprised at his position in the draft.
Prince Vegeta: I figured I was going to go in the top 3 of the draft at the end of the day, as a defensive player and someone with the highest TPE in the class it more likely than not that I was going to go early in the draft, although there probably have been bigger surprises.
For starters, Juniped Catfish going in the 1st round to the Philadelphia Liberty with the 3rd overall pick did shock me. However, the more I thought about it, the more sense it made. Philadelphia is a team that prides itself on the people in their LR, Juniped at the same time, is also someone who is well known across the community for being one of the most supportive and wholesome people. Together it was a match made in heaven and toss in the fact that Juni was willing to switch positions, is a big earner and just got a Co-GM job? Call it a wrap.
In the same round, the Second Line decided to pick Dorfus Jimbo Jr. at 8th overall. Currently, Dorfus is ranked 41st in TPE. Do I need to repeat that again? 41st! I don’t care about connections, I don’t care about how active he is on discord, he’s a horrible earner and doesn’t deserve to be taken with a 1st round pick plain and simple.
What are your first impressions of the team? Are there any players you were drafted with or vets that you're excited to be playing with?
Shakir Ahmed: Like I said earlier getting drafted with Jeffie and Rapid is great. I’ve known both from different servers for a while now and being on the same team and Orange County to be that team is amazing. As for the vets I know about the great Armstrong and players like Biggums, Lattimer, etc. Everyone is really nice and has expectations as high as I do.
Douglas Quail: First impressions have been great, the locker room has been great, the GM has been open to salary requirements and the facilities are world class. Training against Rapid Eagle was key for each of our developments back in the Beach, and I can’t wait to continue going up against him each and every day in training.
Rapid Eagle: My first impressions with the team were great. Everyone already on the team was super welcoming. Kacey Dream was a GM of my DSFL team the Myrtle Beach Buccaneers so it was awesome to share a locker room with him again. Then there's the rest of the Otters draft class, in really excited to play alongside all of them. I've been friends with Prince Vegeta for a few years now so playing with him again will be awesome as well as Larry Longshot, Douglas Quail, Shakir Ahmed, and Remon Kurisuto. I just know that the locker room environment is going to awesome in Orange County and that we will win a lot of games.
Larry Longshot: I am excited to play with some of the MLR/MLN groups that we have here in Orange County. Between Cash, Jeffrey, JZ and Remon, I believe it will be a fun season to interact with them about the game. Coming into a team where I already know most of the guys will be a fun time for sure.
Ryan Scott: My impression of the team so far has been fantastic. The team seems really close knit and the way people interact is great. This is one of the best team locker rooms that I have seen so far in the NSFL, and it definitely shows in the team’s success over the years. I’m looking forward to playing with Larry Longshot, Vegeta, and JZ. These are guys that I joined with and have played in other leagues with so we already have a pretty good relationship. Joining a team with friends like this is what makes the game even more fun. As for veteran players to play with, I don’t think I could pick just one. All of the current players have been great, and I’m going to look forward to the first game when I get to put on the Otters uniform and head onto the field with all of my teammates as we defend the colors.
Remon Kurisuto: The Orange County Otters have been very welcoming to all the new players, myself included. I could not ask for a more friendly team to join. The veterans of the team have been very humble, yet focused: traits that I particularly admire. Many of them have also offered to or already have helped with my personal training. I am sure that they will be excellent mentors in taking my training and performance to the next level. As I mentioned earlier on, I know both Prince Vegeta and Rapid Eagle, who were drafted before me. Of those drafted later than me, I also know Larry Longshot and Ryan Scott. I believe we will be able to coordinate easily on and off the field, and make the clubhouse an even greater place to be.
Prince Vegeta: I love the team, they have a crazy history in this league, have a ton of familiar faces for me and gave me that feeling of comfort I value highly. I’m excited to have an opportunity to play for the greatest organization in NSFL history and play in what could potentially be the best defense in the NSFL...in my rookie season.
Rapid Eagle, Doug Quail and Larry Longshot were my former teammates in Myrtle Beach, all of them were instrumental in our season where we went 12-2 and it would be awesome getting to replicate that success in the big leagues. Ryan Scott, JZ and Cam’Ron West are all people I knew from other leagues and it’s awesome to be able to get the chance to finally play with them.
What are you most looking forward to next season, whether you're returning to your DSFL team or playing in the pros trying to help us win another title?
Shakir Ahmed: As a pro I am looking forward to filling a void this team has and playing up to my potential. If it is being a big body target in the red zone or being a safety valve for Armstrong, or if it’s blocking, I’m ready to do whatever it takes to win.
Douglas Quail: I'll most likely be spending another season or two in the DSFL, so the main goal is to help the Buccaneers win the Ultimini. We came up just short last season after a great campaign, and just need a little experience to put us over the top, hopefully that’s something I can contribute. On a personal level, I'd like to have another sackless season and be in the running for Offensive Lineman of the Year again.
Rapid Eagle: Getting to the Ultimini in my rookie year was an awesome experience with Myrtle Beach, however coming up short in the biggest game hurt. So I'd say I'm looking forward to helping this team win another Ultimus. Getting some awards would be nice after losing DLOTY in DSFL. Although the main goals in the NSFL will be to have fun, hit opposing quarterbacks and win games.
Larry Longshot: I am looking forward to improving as a player and communicating with the team. I am most likely going to be playing in DSFL next season, so I am looking forward to crushing some rookies. They won’t know what's coming at them.
Ryan Scott: I’m looking forward to being the best player I can be, plain and simple. I not only let my teammates down last season for not training as much as I should have as we headed into the playoffs, but I let myself down for not doing as well as I know i can do. I have a lot of pride in the fact that I go out there every day and work as hard as I can to become the best player I can be, and I didn’t do that at the end of the year which is frustrating to me because I didn’t reach the goals I had set out for myself at the beginning of the year. I’m going to come out strong this year and make sure I stay strong throughout the entire season as I head back to the Norfolk Seawolves, looking to win the Ultimini.
Remon Kurisuto: I am so excited to see the crowds and feel part of a coordinated bigger picture. I hope to give my absolute all to help the Orange County Otters achieve their goals and win another title. I am also ready to take on the mentoring of some S22 rookies, as an alumni of the Norfolk Seawolves. A great friend of mine, Juniped Catfish, will be a General Manager of the Norfolk Seawolves this season, and I intend to stay in contact with the members as I progress through my NSFL career. Finally, I have also been hired as a DSFL Updater, and am looking forward to the large paychecks that the job boasts. I am ready to live the NSFL life.
Prince Vegeta: One of the things I’m looking forward to would be balling out at the next level. I feel like I played really well in the DSFL last season and coming into this season with close to 400 TPE I have some high expectations for my player in his first season. After finishing runner up in DBoTY in the DSFL Awards and 3rd in DRoTY voting (Should have come first but that’s a topic for another day).
Another thing I’m looking forward to is the ability to compete for an Ultimus right off the bat. Not many players get the opportunity to compete on one of the best teams in the league in their first season and getting the chance to do so is crazy. I love Laser and Rev for believing in me and giving me this chance and it truly means a lot, even if part of me wishes I got the chance to run it back with Myrtle Beach.
What does it mean to you to be playing for a team with the Otters' history? Are you excited by it or do you maybe feel more pressure because of it?
Shakir Ahmed: I know about the Otter’s history and all its prestige, but that’s in the past. What makes this team great is how it takes it season by season. Every season the goal is the same: to win it all, and I fuck with that mentality and I think I fit in well with it. I want to win and with this group of players I feel like the sky is the limit.
Douglas Quail: The Otters continued success obviously speaks for itself, and it certainly does add some pressure, but at the end of the day it's our job to go out each week and do what we can to help the team win, and that’s true no matter what franchise you play for.
Rapid Eagle: Definitely excited more than anything else. Coming from a successful DSFL team I don't think being on a winning team will be pressure. It's a special thing to be part of such a winning franchise. The culture is already established and everyone expects to win it all. I believe I will thrive in this environment because winning is what I expect from myself. I will do everything in my power to get better and help this team get back to the Ultimus game and bring that trophy back to Orange County.
Larry Longshot: I am excited to eventually play for the Otters and dominate as much as we already have in previous seasons. I enjoy being on a team that people are afraid of and being known as the team to beat all season long. It helps with shit talking, especially when my good friends are on opposing teams that we will destroy.
Ryan Scott: I think it’s a little bit of both. When it comes to playing for a team like the Otters you get excited because you have a chance to be a part of that history and hopefully leave your mark on it. You strive to make sure that the team you are on wins the whole thing, and you do everything in your power to make that happen. At the same time, it’s a lot of pressure to make sure that you are performing at the level that the team name comes with. All I can do as a player is make sure I’m as prepared as I can be and go out on the field and give it everything that I have.
Remon Kurisuto: The history of the Orange County Otters is extremely important to me. I have always been raised to uphold the traditions and expectations of my ancestors, and I consider the Orange County Otters my football family. This means that I will do whatever is necessary to meet or match the performance of the previous Orange County Otters players. This team has a rich history of success, and it will not end with this generation.
Prince Vegeta: It’s definitely exciting that’s for sure. Getting the chance to play for such a historical great team is a truly amazing opportunity. I’m looking forward to the challenge of keeping that trend going as well as learning whatever I can from Laser, Rev, Spec and Molar whenever possible. As a rookie I still have a lot to learn when it comes to the inner workings of the league and I’m excited to have this learning opportunity while playing for the best run organization in the league. In regards to pressure, not really. I know what I can do and so does the team. I’m a guy who will do anything to benefit his team and teammates and that’s what I plan on bringing to the LR and the field every day.
With a season of experience under your belt now after spending a season in the DSFL, what do you think is going to be your biggest improvement from your rookie season?
Shakir Ahmed: As a rookie it’s been up and down. The lack of activity hurt overall through the season. Off the bat I was one of if not the best of all the TE but without being active I didn’t level up fast enough. I’m ready to level up this season and work on my player to the best of my ability. Like I said with this team I have some working to do to be able to be neck and neck with my peers.
Douglas Quail: I have to get the elusive 69 pancake season. That’s the dream. Beyond not allowing any sacks like my first season, that’s the only real individual goal I have.
Rapid Eagle: My rookie season in tbe DSFL I had the most sacks by a defensive linemen and second most tackles by a defensive tackle. Although the stat I was lacking in most was tackles for a loss, only recording three. So that's where I believe I'll have my biggest improvement at the next level. I trained hard on my speed and strength in the developmental league but now that I'm focusing on tackling and strength I will be able to get to running backs in the backfield more often.
Larry Longshot: I believe that I will come in stronger, faster, and be able to read the play before it happens. I was learning the basics of the change from college football to the pro’s, so now I believe I have what it takes to be the best.
Ryan Scott: My biggest improvement is going to be on making sure I’m training in the right areas. I spent some early training days working on the wrong things and it set me back for a little while. Now that I know what I need to work for, and where I need to improve people should only expect the best from me going forward. I’m only going to get faster and stronger, so running backs and quarterbacks beware. I’m coming for you.
Remon Kurisuto: During my time with the Norfolk Seawolves, I struggled to effectively communicate on the field in English, causing many costly mistakes during play execution. Throughout the season, I spent time learning the names of plays, and the terminology to understand and express ideas within football. Unfortunately, American Football is not a popular sport in Japan, so it can be difficult to find translations for these ideas online or in dictionaries. Although my English is still far from academic, I feel much more comfortable on the field and hope to make a change from last season's errors.
Prince Vegeta: After learning how to test sim and learning more about individual attributes I feel like I’m now a lot more prepared for a full season in comparison to last season when I had no idea what to do or what to expect. But now with a season of experience under my belt, I feel like I’m ready to make some major progress this season and take yet another step forward in my career. My biggest improvement will probably be my build and my player. I have plans to make some big changes there and hopefully it all works out and helps me become a difference maker for the Otters.
Again, whether you’re being called up or not, what are your expectations for your team and your player this upcoming season? What about long term?
Shakir Ahmed: Looking long-term, I want to be the greatest TE ever and to achieve my goal I need to set mini goals. My first goal is to have a great campaign. Checking stats, the leading TEs were around 600-800 yards and 3-6 TD, and I want to reach those heights in my first year here. However more than anything I want to win with my team.
Douglas Quail: One thing that Orange County and Myrtle Beach have in common is a winning culture. Regardless of which team I dress for next season, the goal will be the same. Make the postseason and win the Ultimus.
Rapid Eagle: My expectations for myself is to be the very best in can be and always getting better. I feel like I'm coming off a successful rookie season so I expect only to get better. For my team I expect to have fun and win as many games as possible. Orange County has a winning history in the league and I don't expect that to go away especially after this strong draft class. If anything this draft is going to extend that Ultimus window even longer. Over my career the hall of fame is definitely a good place to shoot for but as long as I'm having fun with my team being the best I know I can be I'll consider my career successful.
Larry Longshot: I expect nothing but a trophy. If we achieve anything less I would be disappointed with the high caliber of players we have on the team. For the long term, I hope we can bring in more talent to the team as it is just going to get better from here.
Ryan Scott: For this season, I want to lead the DSFL in tackles. I’m building my player to be in the middle of every play and I expect to do just that. As for the long term performance of my player, I just want to be a consistent performer that helps the Otters win championships. They say that defense wins championships, and I intend on making sure the defense that I’m on is lethal and absolutely constricting to any other team’s offenses as they make their way through Orange County.
Remon Kurisuto: This season, the Orange County Otters have many new players, but we are a powerful rookie class. I believe this team has aggregated some of the best players within this draft class, and we show no signs of slowing down. Although we may take some time to adjust to the difference in skill between the DSFL and the NSFL, I believe that next season, and the one after, we will be a truly impeccable team, ready to dominate the absolute best teams in either conference. As time progresses, I believe this team also contains all the necessary components to raise excellent successors in the next generation. For these reasons, I see the Orange County Otters soon arising to an all-time high in coordination and execution both on and off the field.
Prince Vegeta: I want to win Defensive Rookie of The Year. I was robbed of the award in the DSFL but following my big offseason I feel like I could definitely make some noise in the NSFL for the same award. Statistically I have no idea what to expect so far as I haven’t done any test sims yet.
As for my team, I want to win this division and show up Austin right away. I probably sound like a broken record at this point but the Otters have dominated the league for 20 seasons now and I plan on doing my best to keep that going. I would personally love to see us win one right off the bat.
Code:
5139 words, 1.5x media
Please split the payout as follows:
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