03-08-2020, 09:01 PM
(This post was last modified: 03-08-2020, 09:18 PM by DynamicDoug.)
As we welcome a new rookie class into Myrtle beach, I thought that as a returning veteran, a great way for myself and the fans to get familiar with the new blood would be to sit down for an interview with each rookie that was able to take the time out of their busy schedule.
Each rookie was asked the same set of seven carefully crafted questions, designed to unravel the deepest inner workings of their minds, designed by a panel of the best armchair psychologists that I could find with three hours notice on craigslist. These can be found below alonside the answers of our prestigous rookie class:
Johnny Hellzapoppin -@Colabear
Position: Safety
Pick #: 7
1. First of all, congratulations on being drafted into the DSFL. You guys have worked your entire lives for this opportunity. How does it feel to have all that hard work pay off?
It feels great. I hoped rather than expected to go in the first round. So I was pumped when the phone rand and it was Myrtle Beach on the other end looking to take me 7 overall. When a team puts their faith in you like that you want to repay them by putting in more hard work and performances to justify it.
2. Did you have any expectations of where you’d end up leading up to or during the draft? And now knowing how it played out, was there anything you wish you had done differently in advance of the draft or anything you wish had gone differently during?
Most teams expressed some degree of interest. I think Portland would have taken me with their two picks together in the second. I'd a lot of conversations with the Birddogs staff too. But there was something about the conversation with Myrtle Beach that gave me the feeling they wanted to get me on board. I didn't know that would be with their very first pick.
3. What are you most looking forward to about this upcoming season?
Just getting on the field and balling out. Getting that first pick. I one in the prospect bowl and it's an addictive taste once you get used to it.
4. Is there anyone one on the team that has stood out to you as a player? Be that as a leader, friend or general good presence in the locker room?
Prince Vegeta was a guy I looked up to in the DSFL. He's a model professional and it was no surprise to see him taken first overall. He reached out to me before the draft and shared a lot of insight that's helped me learn and grow. Of course we also got talking about the Buccs, the sort of team it is, the locker room, and the void that will be there when he moves on. A void I hope I can fill in time.
5. What does it mean to you to be playing for a team like the Buccaneers? Do you feel like it comes with an added pressure coming off an Ultimus appearance, or do you feel more at ease surrounded by an experienced coaching staff and players who’ve been there before?
It's nice to be somewhere with a culture of success. While a few key players have moved onward and upward, which is no bad thing in itself, it's clear that there's a core here of veterans to learn from and keep that culture rolling. And there are some great guys in the rookie class. Troen and Momento have stood out and Bruce Buckley is a larger than life character.
6. This is going to be your first ever experience playing football at a professional level, what are you doing to prepare yourself for the challenge, and how do you see it being different to your college careers?
I've been working hard in the last few weeks to get up to speed. Literally. Everyone talks about the step up in the speed of the game at this level so I've been working on playing fast and moving sideline to sideline to cover the field as fast as any safety in the draft.
7. Obviously you all have your $5 million burning a hole in your pocket, and you must have some kind of plan for it, what's your first purchase gonna be?
I've already spent it to get the top of the range equipment. I'm confident that I'll be able to afford my other weekly expenses through my sponsorship income.
Troen Egghands -@Troen
Position: Defensive End
Pick #: 15
1. First of all, congratulations on being drafted into the DSFL. You guys have worked your entire lives for this opportunity. How does it feel to have all that hard work pay off?
Well of course it's a relief to finally find out where I'm ending up after all this time and uncertainty. And to avoid a cliche, this is an important step in the process of joining the pro league but it's not just the beginning. I've been working hard to be a great football player and athlete in college and so while getting drafted is definitely a reflection of my work, it's not just getting paid off. It's a key step and one I'm happy to have made and yeah - a relief.
2. Did you have any expectations of where you’d end up leading up to or during the draft? And now knowing how it played out, was there anything you wish you had done differently in advance of the draft or anything you wish had gone differently during?
For expectations, I think there's the aspect of both when I was picked roundwise and then what team in that round I ended up on. And really, in a draft with as many promising college players as this year's, even picking a specific round is hard because equally talented players can be taken a round or two later based on interviews, team culture, or even just a good or bad impression that a GM has. So with that in mind, I thought it was pretty likely that I would go in the first 5 rounds. I believe that my skills in college were a good foundation for a professional player and that I did performed well in the pre-draft training activities to really put in work and show teams that I was willing to train to get better. Additionally, I tried to be more than just a player by applying for a job in the media liason department. That eventually didn't pan out, but I do think it's one way of showing teams that you as aplayer care about what you're doing and not just there to cash paychecks. But still, roundwise, I was a little surprised and of course also honored to go at the end of the second and to be the first DE drafted.
As far as team, I spoke with Myrtle Beach less than several other DSFL organizations and so having them selecting me was not what I'd considered to be the most likely match. I hope that means that I impressed them with my work ethic and hope to show that their faith was well-placed.
For anything that I'd have done differently - I think I regret not spending more time to contact each of the GMs and getting to know them a bit better. I started off looking at how many other players the GMs were going to need to scout in the draft and decided that trying to contact them all could be more annoying than helpful. But now, looking back, I think that trying to get some face-to-face time would be useful to better understand the league and its situation, especially if I want to write useful and insightful coverage of my time in the league. And to be fair, it's not conceptually too late to do this - I just need to try and find some time in the GMs' busy schedules.
3. What are you most looking forward to about this upcoming season?
Well of course I'm looking forward to meeting my teammates, getting to know them better, and having a chance to immerse myself in the culter of the Buccaneers. I grew up and went to school in California so they were rarely the featured local team and so I don't have as good of a sense of what a typical game looks like for them, only prime time and playoff games. Getting a match names to faces, and nicknames to names will be important too. And then moving beyond meeting and to playing is of course going to be great. I'm hoping to keep up my work to understand some of the ins & outs of professional football - seeing ways I can improve, taking advantage of the more advanced training facilities. I'm sure that the first few games are going to be a challenge to just play the game at the professional level. Like they say - the worst player in the DSFL is better than the best player at most colleges. So, getting used to the speed of the game and the overall athleticism - that's definitely going to be a challenge and I'm looking forward to show that I belong here, that I can compete and succeed on this level, and to help my team.
4. Is there anyone one on the team that has stood out to you as a player? Be that as a leader, friend or general good presence in the locker room?
Well as I said above, Myrtle Beach was a bit of a surprise to me as I hadn't really taken the time to go and meet with all their players. So naturally the impressions I have so far are really shallow, just the first few hours practically. Dax Frost of course has been great in getting me situated and giving me some starting pointers on differences in the game at this level. Ghost Pirate has been really supportive of me too, just encouraging me to level up my game in the locker room and to make that next step. I'm sure as I spend more time around everyone I'll learn more and have a good time.
5. What does it mean to you to be playing for a team like the Buccaneers? Do you feel like it comes with an added pressure coming off an Ultimus appearance, or do you feel more at ease surrounded by an experienced coaching staff and players who’ve been there before?
I would always rather be pressured to be good than pressured to avoid bad. And so from what I've seen, I think the Buccaneers are the kind of place pressuring ourselves to succeed. Sure, at some level that means that I'm going to be dealing with others in the locker room trying to make sure I'm always performing at the top of my game and never slacking, but I'll take that pressure, that culture of success as a worthwhile cost when it comes to being the best. That actually reminds me of a guy I know from Austin. He was talking to me about changing jobs since he'd been at his previous job for less than two years and was already considered the guy who knew the most about what and how to do everything. And if you look at people, some would take that as a sign that they'd made it or that they were just that awesome. This guy, though - Josh, his name was - he took that as a sign that he'd hit a ceiling that could only be broken by going elsewhere. So, he left that job and interviewed around until he found somewhere where he wouldn't know everything and could instead learn from others who knew more. He went and had some rocky times, but also some good ones, and ended up learning a lot and creating some great stuff. So I think that's kind of an analogous situation here, where I can learn from players who have been great and from a team that's been to the highest level. And hopefully, like Josh, I and the team can take the next step and create some great stuff in the form of a Ultimus victory.
6. This is going to be your first ever experience playing football at a professional level, what are you doing to prepare yourself for the challenge, and how do you see it being different to your college careers?
Well like I said above, I'm trying to make sure I do everything I can to take advanage of the training opportunities and equipment that we have here at the pro level. Since college has smaller budgets and still prevents players from being paid, there's a lof of options that I have as a professional earning a wage that I just couldn't afford in college. And, as I covered in my media liason application, the injury-prevention nanites used by the professional leagues allow for a much more challenging training environment that I think is already paying off in helping me play faster and stronger than I was in college. Just improving my body isn't sufficient, though, and so I'm also trying to learn what I can about how the other players we're going to be up against compete - looking at scouting reports, seeing what I can learn about their training that I'm not doing or different optimization approaches. And I consider both the NSFL and DSFL as important sources for that information. I'm planning to participate in an NSFL fantasy league this year which I think will be a great way to see how the highest level players perform at a detailed level when seeing their games and stats and comparing it to mine.
Conceptually, I could have been doing a lot of this mental preparation in college too, I guess, but I considered getting my economics degree to be a top priority then. I had several teammates in colleg ethat I'm disppointed to admit saw their education as an impediment to playing football. I can understand that they might want to spend the most time they can on the game, but I think the goal of college is to give us a grounding that goes beyond just being the best sports player. So, while I don't have classes and schoolwork anymore, I do want to continue some of my more cerebral work and try to write about my experiences and learnings in the league. I think that will be a good way of keeping the academic side of my past relevant and hope that it can give me an edge in preparation over the other players.
7. Obviously you all have your $5 million burning a hole in your pocket, and you must have some kind of plan for it, what's your first purchase gonna be?
Well like I said, having a paycheck afforded me the chance to get a class of practice and game equipment that the college level didn't. That's the rational and mostly correct answer.
...but, after seeing Matthew Curran's hat in the draft, I couldn't help but go out and get some ribs from Sweet Carolina's down the road. I've been an equal-opportunity BBQ eater in the past, but I think that the Carolina-style stuff will grow on me.
Octavio Clemente -@Billybolo53
Position: Defensive Tackle
Pick #: 23
1. First of all, congratulations on being drafted into the DSFL. You guys have worked your entire lives for this opportunity. How does it feel to have all that hard work pay off?
It’s an amazing feeling. Where I’m from in the Dominican Republic, no one plays football. I’m hoping to introduce my country to the sport and feel like I’m representing the whole Island every time I suit up. In such a historic draft class, It’s humbling getting some recognition for the time I’ve put into.
2. Did you have any expectations of where you’d end up leading up to or during the draft? And now knowing how it played out, was there anything you wish you had done differently in advance of the draft or anything you wish had gone differently during?
Going in I had a few ideas just based on team needs and scouting interviews. There were only 5 or 6 solid DT prospects and I felt like I was one of the best. Once there were two of us off the board, I knew I would be getting a call very soon. After the expansion teams passed on me, I knew there was a chance I'd fall to Myrtle Beach. Then it happened. I wouldn’t change a thing. I ended up on my favorite team with a great history. I couldn’t be happier with how everything turned out.
3. What are you most looking forward to about this upcoming season?
All my focus is on getting the Buccaneers back to the Ultimini and bringing it home. This organization deserves it and so do their fans. We’re the best DSFL franchise and I’m looking forward to proving that each and every week.
4. Is there anyone one on the team that has stood out to you as a player? Be that as a leader, friend or general good presence in the locker room?
Dax Frost and Prince Vegeta for one. I read two great articles on these two when they were drafted in the NSFL. I was amazed by the talent that Myrtle Beach was able to produce. Both of them have been huge inspirations to me. I also ran across Kacey Dream here and there. He is awesome and supportive to each and everyone he has on his team. Excite to work with him more. I have to give a shout out to RainDelay22 for being the first person to welcome me in the draft process. That was huge especially so early on. Lastly, I’m happy to follow in Rapid Eagles’ footsteps. He played DT for Myrtle Beach last year and has gone on to the NSFL. He has been a great help and I'm hoping to keep in touch with him through the season.
5. What does it mean to you to be playing for a team like the Buccaneers? Do you feel like it comes with an added pressure coming off an Ultimus appearance, or do you feel more at ease surrounded by an experienced coaching staff and players who’ve been there before?
The Buccaneers have an attitude. It’s us versus the world. I’m sure for a lot of people, that doesn’t mesh with who they are, but to me, I thrive off of that. I’m proud to be part of this organization and the track record really speaks for itself. There’s always pressure to perform. You have to put it on yourself if you want to be successful. The attitude around the Buccaneers is one where they expect success. When you walk into a room with that mentality everything else takes care of itself.
6. This is going to be your first ever experience playing football at a professional level, what are you doing to prepare yourself for the challenge, and how do you see it being different to your college careers?
It’s all about trusting the process and my coaching staff. I trust that they will get me prepared and ready. In college, I was beginning to grasp what my potential was. Now I am ready not just to be good but to be great. My goals for this team and myself are through the roof.
7. Obviously you all have your $5 million burning a hole in your pocket, and you must have some kind of plan for it, what's your first purchase gonna be?
I’m going to go back to the Dominican Republic next offseason and build a whole youth facility for football. I want to give all the young people on the island and avenue to explore their talent. I’m hoping to do this all over the developing world as I get traction and expand my outreach. There have been so many people that have helped me along the way and I want to give back to my communities in a big way.
Brandon Booker -@Memento Mori
Position: Cornerback
Pick #: 35
1. First of all, congratulations on being drafted into the DSFL. You guys have worked your entire lives for this opportunity. How does it feel to have all that hard work pay off?
Thank you. Well, I want to start by thanking Myrtle Beach for drafting me. There were a lot of talented players and only a short amount of time for GMs to scout prospects. You're right that I've worked hard for this opportunity, but I wouldn't say it's paid off at all yet. This is just the beginning. It sounds cliché but every practice and every game I'll be going at 100% to make the most of the opportunity Myrtle Beach has given me, and to repay them for showing so much faith in me and drafting me early.
2. Did you have any expectations of where you’d end up leading up to or during the draft? And now knowing how it played out, was there anything you wish you had done differently in advance of the draft or anything you wish had gone differently during?
I had at least one private conversation with all 8 DSFL teams, so prior to the draft I had no idea which team would be the one to take me. Being picked by Myrtle Beach was a very nice surprise as there were several teams that had courted me more heavily. I'm delighted to be a Buccaneer and knowing that this was the end result I wouldn't change anything about what I said or did during the pre-draft process.
3. What are you most looking forward to about this upcoming season?
It's pretty simple - I'm most looking forward to being one part of a successful and talented team! I can't wait to step out on the field in a Myrtle Beach uniform and help us win games. Every team is going to be afraid of us, and they should be.
4. Is there anyone one on the team that has stood out to you as a player? Be that as a leader, friend or general good presence in the locker room?
I'm a big, big fan of our second round pick Troen Egghands. He's a really intelligent guy who knows how to work his way into the backfield for sacks and TFLs. He'll make QBs panic, which is going to make our jobs in the secondary easier.
5. What does it mean to you to be playing for a team like the Buccaneers? Do you feel like it comes with an added pressure coming off an Ultimus appearance, or do you feel more at ease surrounded by an experienced coaching staff and players who’ve been there before?
It's exciting. Watching the championship game I never would've guessed that in the near future Myrtle Beach would be picking me to add to their roster. I don't feel under pressure at all, the Bucs have produced some great DBs (going #1 and #4 in the NSFL draft!) recently so the coaching staff are clearly doing something right. I think MB is the perfect landing spot for a young DB, and I'll be doing all I can to help the team get back to the title game next season. And, hopefully, we'll go one better and win.
6. This is going to be your first ever experience playing football at a professional level, what are you doing to prepare yourself for the challenge, and how do you see it being different to your college careers?
This is what I've been working towards while in high school and college, and in some ways I think it might be easier. I don't have to fit school and classes in around practice and doing gym work, I can give my football career my undivided attention. I get to live my dream - no distractions, just football. I'm ready.
7. Obviously you all have your $5 million burning a hole in your pocket, and you must have some kind of plan for it, what's your first purchase gonna be?
I do have a plan, actually. Like most rookies, a car is #1 on my list. I want something flashy, something that stands out. People on the street are going to know I'm a football player. I'm getting a Peugeot 206.
Heath Evans -@`Feeler`
Position: Tight End
Pick #: 39
1. First of all, congratulations on being drafted into the DSFL. You guys have worked your entire lives for this opportunity. How does it feel to have all that hard work pay off?
It's a strange feeling man, like you said this has been a long time coming and in some senses it feels over - but really this is just the beginning. Who would have thought the rugby player from Australia could have made the switch so successfully? I'm glad I've done my mumma and my family proud, there's a lot that goes into this that the public don't see and they've been behind me every step of the way. I'm proud to represent the Bruins at the next level, and hopefully I can help lead the way for more skill players to come out of Australia.
2. Did you have any expectations of where you’d end up leading up to or during the draft? And now knowing how it played out, was there anything you wish you had done differently in advance of the draft or anything you wish had gone differently during?
There's no doubt I wanted to be in MB. I'm certain if another team had drafted me I'd be happy there too, but MB showed the most interest and I'm glad it's where I landed. Being off the board at #39 didn't seem great at first, but digging deeper I was only the 11th offensive player to be drafted within a huge run of defenders. If I could do it differently I probably wouldn't, because this worked out for me - ending up where I wanted to go. Being the third Tight End off the board left me nervous, as I knew that I was the BPA for that position after that and when MB passed me up at #35 I thought I may end up drafted elsewhere before their next pick came around. Big congrats to my #TEGANG brothers Jeff Phillips and Daniel George, as much as we wanted to play together that would have been too much man meat for one LR.
3. What are you most looking forward to about this upcoming season?
Making plays, supporting the team and developing as a player. There's a long road ahead to make sure we continue last year's trend of being a dominant team, but I believe we have a great group of S22 draftees that we can work with to get there. I want to open holes for my Running Backs, help my Offensive Line half brothers protect my Quarterback, and I want to catch passes for me. With Bruce [Buckley] and I on the same team there could be some behind the scenes mischief Aussie style, but I'll try to keep the reigns on it as best I can.
4. Is there anyone one on the team that has stood out to you as a player? Be that as a leader, friend or general good presence in the locker room?
Prince Vegeta reached out to me early on in the process and helped me work things out a bit - I'm certain he put in a good word for me that helped me end up on the team too. Simon is bae. My new GMs Frost and Cory have been a great help with all kinds of things including my training plan and even fantasy football advice. So far I haven't met a player or team manager that hasn't been welcoming and friendly - a tradition I plan to help keep alive!
5. What does it mean to you to be playing for a team like the Buccaneers? Do you feel like it comes with an added pressure coming off an Ultimus appearance, or do you feel more at ease surrounded by an experienced coaching staff and players who’ve been there before?
To me playing for a contender was important coming into this league, I was keen to be on an established team with a dominating presence and I'm stoked to be here on a team with history too. I don't feel any added pressure, regardless of who I was drafted by or at what position, I was always going to be the same player putting in the same effort -100%- towards improving and winning games. The coaching and management experience should definitely come in handy to help me learn the game and be more effective. I'm just as excited about our class of rookies as I am the rest of the team though, we can really be the future of this league and I hope I can help them develop as well.
6. This is going to be your first ever experience playing football at a professional level, what are you doing to prepare yourself for the challenge, and how do you see it being different to your college careers?
I've been playing professional sports since I was 14, the only difference will be the size of the crowd. We didn't get many fans along for developmental rugby games back home, but I feel that the UCLA crowds have prepared me well in that sense. All I'm doing to prepare is putting in work, every day. Consistency is key to being the best that you can be. Hit me on twitter if you want to work out - I'm almost always in the gym or on the field.
7. Obviously you all have your $5 million burning a hole in your pocket, and you must have some kind of plan for it, what's your first purchase gonna be?
Yeah I've got plans, I'm gonna buy myself some new training sessions and some pieces of equipment to help me develop. Some of these fools are going out there blowing contract money on name changes and ish, but my only focus is being the best player I can be, to appropriately reward the Buccaneers for having faith in me. If there's a bit left over I'm gonna fly my family out for a few games so they can see what their efforts have helped me to achieve.
Bruce Buckley -@NicholasTheGreat
Position: Offensive Line
Pick #: 59
1. First of all, congratulations on being drafted into the DSFL. You guys have worked your entire lives for this opportunity. How does it feel to have all that hard work pay off?
It feels really great to get into the DSFL, I know I have add some behavioural issues recently and it feels great for that to be behind me now. I know I have not had the college career that people may look at but i have the ability and strength to make it far in this league.
2. Did you have any expectations of where you’d end up leading up to or during the draft? And now knowing how it played out, was there anything you wish you had done differently in advance of the draft or anything you wish had gone differently during?
Going into the draft i was unsure of when i was going to go overall due to the prejudices offensive lineman have against them. #OLforProBowl. So it was hard to determine my overall draft position goal. My primary goal was to be one of the top two offensive line taken off of the board. There was a rivalry with fellow prospect Tommy Sacamano. I knew Tommy and I were the best prospects in this draft. Our rivalry went a little far over social media and through articles but it was almost out of respect as we knew we were the best ones out there. So when Portland took the first offensive lineman off the board and it was neither of us, i was absolutely shocked.
When Tommy went off second, I didn't mind that because i knew we were neck and neck. At this point the doubts started to creep in about whether or not I would go shortly and be the next one off the board. When i found out i went to Myrtle Beach and they had traded up to get me, I was ecstatic in being drafted and that the team has shown faith in me by ensuring they got me.
There was nothing i can do to have improved my draft position, what happened, happened. I'm happy with where i am and the circumstances. If i had to change things, I wouldn't be happy with myself knowing it wasn't for the right reason.
3. What are you most looking forward to about this upcoming season?
I'm most looking forward to developing myself and getting to know the team in the locker room. They seem like a great group of people who I am really looking forward to knowing and telling them about myself. I'm also really hoping to help this team go one step further this year and capture the Ultimini.
4. Is there anyone one on the team that has stood out to you as a player? Be that as a leader, friend or general good presence in the locker room?
I haven't been around enough to determine a specific person. Especially since i wasn't scouted by a specific person in private messages. But what I have seen is a positive space where everyone is focused on development and assisting one another and becoming the greatest players and team in the league.
5. What does it mean to you to be playing for a team like the Buccaneers? Do you feel like it comes with an added pressure coming off an Ultimus appearance, or do you feel more at ease surrounded by an experienced coaching staff and players who’ve been there before?
Being an offensive lineman, it is great to be playing for the Buccaneers as i know they respect the position unlike other teams who may not give it the respect it deserves. The team performance from last season doesn't really concern me as I am a new player. It does give me relief knowing that the team knows what they are doing. Especially in contrast to other teams, especially after their draft performance and moves made during it. It does seem like its a great team with plenty of skills ready to win.
6. This is going to be your first ever experience playing football at a professional level, what are you doing to prepare yourself for the challenge, and how do you see it being different to your college careers?
I didn't have a college career so it is hard to say how the game will change. This will be my first actual foray into professional football and i am extremely excited in how it will go.
7. Obviously you all have your $5 million burning a hole in your pocket, and you must have some kind of plan for it, what's your first purchase gonna be?
Saving it for a while and then upgrading my equipment.
Leeroy Jenkins -@dahayn
Position: Linebacker -> Wide Reciever
Pick #: 127
1. First of all, congratulations on being drafted into the DSFL. You guys have worked your entire lives for this opportunity. How does it feel to have all that hard work pay off?
Amazing! No words can describe what this opportunity will mean to myself and my family! I know this is just a first step but it's one that only the smallest fraction of athletes are gifted. Now it's my job to prove to this franchise that they made the right choice!
2. Did you have any expectations of where you’d end up leading up to or during the draft? And now knowing how it played out, was there anything you wish you had done differently in advance of the draft or anything you wish had gone differently during?
I had talks with a few GMs and scouts but you never really know if they are being real with you or just talking. My conversation with RainDelay22 however seemed genuine and no lie, I had my hopes up whenever MB came up to the podium. Realisticaly, I didn't see myself going until the mid-rounds but was hopeful that I would go in the first half of the draft. And I guess the Big Guy Upstairs was looking out for me once again because not only did I go in the first half, but to the team that I was hoping to pick me up. I know I could have been more vocal with the rest of the rookies to show my presence around the league pre-draft and I could have fit in a few more training days but I think things happen how they're supposed to happen. Destiny, if you want to call it that.
3. What are you most looking forward to about this upcoming season?
-Honestly, I'm mostly looking forward to learning how to be a successfull athlete in this league. God gave me talent, and I work hard to maximize what he gave me. This team saw something in me and they think I can contribute alongside my brothers in the locker room to traslating our talent and hard work into wins. I want to have one of those 15 year careers so I know in addition to working hard everyday, I'm hoping to find mentorship on how to also work smart.
4. Is there anyone one on the team that has stood out to you as a player? Be that as a leader, friend or general good presence in the locker room?
A lot of my fellow rookies seem to be amazing guys. I can tell we're going to all get along great! But so far the ones who have reached out and helped me the most are RainDelay22 and Frostbite.
5. What does it mean to you to be playing for a team like the Buccaneers? Do you feel like it comes with an added pressure coming off an Ultimus appearance, or do you feel more at ease surrounded by an experienced coaching staff and players who’ve been there before?
I do feel the presure to be the best that I can be, but that's not nessesarily a bad thing. It's pressure that turns coal into diamonds. Well, pressure and time. I think that's what I need to be successfull. I know the coaches will teach us how to use our tools and put us in the best position for wins. All I have to do pay attention, practice hard and practice smart, and stay healthy. If there's something I'm not understanding, I also know we have veteran players here who can provide that piece that I'm missing to complete the puzzle.
6. This is going to be your first ever experience playing football at a professional level, what are you doing to prepare yourself for the challenge, and how do you see it being different to your college careers?
I am a true rookie. However, that's not stopping me from wanting to be the #1 guy at my position even though I have a lot of work to do. I know that as well. No one is just going to hand me their starting role. In college, specificaly because of the smaller schools in the Big Sky Conference, the competition wasn't as fierce as what I'm expecting here in MB. My mind is right. My body is right. I'm going to be going head-to-head with the best of the best. Testing myself every second of every day. And I cannot wait.
7. Obviously you all have your $5 million burning a hole in your pocket, and you must have some kind of plan for it, what's your first purchase gonna be?
-I got myself a used Toyota to get around, some groceries to fuel this body, paid off all my momma's bills and got her a new Tesla. Everything else goes to training so I can secure a second contract. This oppertunity is not only a way to get myself and this franchise into the record books but it's a way to secure myself and my family's future. Work hard and smart now so I can reap the rewards for the rest of my life.
Brendan Lanier -@jdourtled
Position: Linebacker
Pick #: 135
1. First of all, congratulations on being drafted into the DSFL. You guys have worked your entire lives for this opportunity. How does it feel to have all that hard work pay off?
It feels really good, hearing my name on draft night is a moment I'll cherish for the rest of my life.
2. Did you have any expectations of where you’d end up leading up to or during the draft? And now knowing how it played out, was there anything you wish you had done differently in advance of the draft or anything you wish had gone differently during?
I had a feeling after the interviews that I'd up in Myrtle Beach. If I had to change one thing prior to the draft I'd probably would've tried to be more proactie in getting my name out there, obviously pick 135 is still the first half of the draft, but I'd imagine nothing can beat the feeling of being a 1st/2nd round pick.
3. What are you most looking forward to about this upcoming season?
Just the experience of being in a professional enviroment
4. Is there anyone one on the team that has stood out to you as a player? Be that as a leader, friend or general good presence in the locker room?
Not really, if anyone I'd say all of the rookies, all of us seem to be eager and ready to train/grind
5. What does it mean to you to be playing for a team like the Buccaneers? Do you feel like it comes with an added pressure coming off an Ultimus appearance, or do you feel more at ease surrounded by an experienced coaching staff and players who’ve been there before?
Experience is going to help a lot in not only in the development of my skills, but also my knowledge of the game that could help with possibly becoming a future GM. As for pressure, if I'm being completely blunt, I don't think I have much pressure from people outside myself, with being a lower round pick I'm more of a backup/developmental prospect, so I'm gonna do my best to work my way into the rotation
6. This is going to be your first ever experience playing football at a professional level, what are you doing to prepare yourself for the challenge, and how do you see it being different to your college careers?
Train as hard as possible. In college I was a big fish in a small pond, but realistically I see myself as a rotation piece that can be a good locker room guy and fill in at any position needed, whether that be on offense or defense.
7. Obviously you all have your $5 million burning a hole in your pocket, and you must have some kind of plan for it, what's your first purchase gonna be?
I'm not 100% sure, may invest and save up for the future, football doesn't last forever after all.
J.B. Apollo -@Apollo
Position: RB
Pick #: 136
1. First of all, congratulations on being drafted into the DSFL. You guys have worked your entire lives for this opportunity. How does it feel to have all that hard work pay off?
It obviously feels great to be another step closer to my goal of being the best to ever play. But I have temper that excitemnt with knowing that there's still a long way to go.
2. Did you have any expectations of where you’d end up leading up to or during the draft? And now knowing how it played out, was there anything you wish you had done differently in advance of the draft or anything you wish had gone differently during?
I performed well in the Prospect bowl as the workhorse back for Miami, we unfortunately lost in the semi's so i didnt get to show my stuff on the biggest stage. I think I was seen as somewhat of a project compared to some other guys in my position, so I fell farther than I originally hoped.
3. What are you most looking forward to about this upcoming season?
I'm looking forward to putting in work and learning the ropes from my teammates, growing my knowledge andbecoming the best rookie RB this League has ever seen.
4. Is there anyone one on the team that has stood out to you as a player? Be that as a leader, friend or general good presence in the locker room?
Dax Frost. Not only is he my mentor at RB, he's been helping me with every aspect of getting used to the League as well.
5. What does it mean to you to be playing for a team like the Buccaneers? Do you feel like it comes with an added pressure coming off an Ultimus appearance, or do you feel more at ease surrounded by an experienced coaching staff and players who’ve been there before?
It feels like there is an expectation for greatness, which is great to have in a locker room. You know that evryone is going to be putting in thw work in thewieght room, watching film, staying after practice to get that little bit of extra work in. It makes me feel at ease that these are guys you can rely on, both on the field and off.
6. This is going to be your first ever experience playing football at a professional level, what are you doing to prepare yourself for the challenge, and how do you see it being different to your college careers?
Im working with some of my teammates who have been here for a while, trying to get acclimated to what its like in the League. Just building my body as well, the physical toll this seasin is going to take is something ive never experienced before, so i need to be as fit as possible. I feel like even against some of the best college teams there are positions that you can just tell they dont have guys that belong in the next level. Thats no longer the case, everyone here deserves it, and wants to do wahtever they can to stay.
7. Obviously you all have your $5 million burning a hole in your pocket, and you must have some kind of plan for it, what's your first purchase gonna be?
I know it's not gonna be the flashiest answer, but im going to put a lot of it away and invest it. but im definitely going to but my
Rico Martinez -@[Embrace_Fitz_magic39]
Position: Cornerback
Pick #: 144
1. First of all, congratulations on being drafted into the DSFL. You guys have worked your entire lives for this opportunity. How does it feel to have all that hard work pay off?
Just feels good for all that hard work to pay off, coach Muschamp and the staff at Carolina always told me that you keep your nose to the grindstone and stay humble you end up successful.
2. Did you have any expectations of where you’d end up leading up to or during the draft? And now knowing how it played out, was there anything you wish you had done differently in advance of the draft or anything you wish had gone differently during?
This was a deep draft for corner, I knew that it would be difficult to shine among the gems but overall I feel that I came out well and while I have room to prove myself it always helps to keep a chip on your shoulder and stay hungry.
3. What are you most looking forward to about this upcoming season?
As a rookie you walk onto that field with expectations set high by yourself, the fans and the coaches and my goal for my rookie season is to meet and surpass those expectations and solodify my place on this team.
4. Is there anyone one on the team that has stood out to you as a player? Be that as a leader, friend or general good presence in the locker room?
My man RainDelay22 reached out to me during the rookie process and answered questions that I had and made the process a lot smoother and intuitive for me, real swell guy and glad we share the same colors.
5. What does it mean to you to be playing for a team like the Buccaneers? Do you feel like it comes with an added pressure coming off an Ultimus appearance, or do you feel more at ease surrounded by an experienced coaching staff and players who’ve been there before?
Man, it means the world to me to be playing for the Buccs, I grew up in Carolina played college in Carolina and now I'm a pro for Carolina and its time to make Carolina King. As for Ultimus its a shame that it got away last year but we know we can get to it if we work hard and we know how to get there. Next step is to win
6. This is going to be your first ever experience playing football at a professional level, what are you doing to prepare yourself for the challenge, and how do you see it being different to your college careers?
When it comes to the pros what you hear is its all about the mindset and getting in the groove, gotta catch up to the pace of the game. I expect more speed and skill so you gotta hold a higher expectation for yourself and work harder to overcome those obstacles.
7. Obviously you all have your $5 million burning a hole in your pocket, and you must have some kind of plan for it, what's your first purchase gonna be?
Gotta get that new Peloton and work these calves, receivers in the DSFL don't play.
Tom Sofa -@NamelessNate
Position: Quarterback
Pick #: 271, "Mr. Irrelevant"
1. First of all, congratulations on being drafted into the DSFL. You guys have worked your entire lives for this opportunity. How does it feel to have all that hard work pay off?
Honestly it feels good to get drafted onto the stepping stone to the biggest stage in the football world. Although it would be a lie to say I wasn't disappointed in being heralded as "Mr. Irrelevant," but I know that all of the other GMs will come to regret not picking me up sooner. I know I put in the work my entire college career, and I will continue to put in the work at this stage in the game. The Developmental Simulation Football League and the National Simulation Football League are not ready for what I am about to unleash upon them.
2. Did you have any expectations of where you’d end up leading up to or during the draft? And now knowing how it played out, was there anything you wish you had done differently in advance of the draft or anything you wish had gone differently during?
As one of the last QBs to declare for the draft I did have expectations of being a later round pick. I did not however expect to be the very last pick. All that it tells me is that there were 270 wrong choices made before Myrtle beach selected (were forced to select?) me. If anything I wish that maybe I declared sooner so I could have more roll calls under my belt, but in the end it doesn't even matter. 2-3 seasons from now Myrtle Beach will be champions and all of the other GMs will regret making 15+ draft selections before me.
3. What are you most looking forward to about this upcoming season?
I am most looking forward to sitting on the bench and ammassing Total Points Earned. Once the GM and I feel that I am ready to see the field I will then take it by storm. I don't expect that to happen until later in the season though. I don't hold many expectations for the team as I know I am not here to carry them just yet, and I do not expect to even be a minor part in their success.
4. Is there anyone one on the team that has stood out to you as a player? Be that as a leader, friend or general good presence in the locker room?
I love the whole locker room. As soon as I was the last to arrive I was swarmed by a lot of good vibes and friendly faces. They all know that they won big with the last overall pick and I know I won big by finding a place to call home in Myrtle Beach! I really like the team here and I am ready to be their QB when they feel I am ready, and until I get "too old" for the developmental league.
5. What does it mean to you to be playing for a team like the Buccaneers? Do you feel like it comes with an added pressure coming off an Ultimus appearance, or do you feel more at ease surrounded by an experienced coaching staff and players who’ve been there before?
Where I am not the starting QB I do not feel as much pressure, and where there is a winning culture it does feel like a great place to land. Whether we make it to the Ultimus again or not doesn't necessarily feel like it lands on my shoulders, but I do feel that once the reigns are handed to me it will be a different story. I simultaniously am afraid and ready for that day to come, for the Buccanneers to become mine and the resposibility of a championship to fall to me.
6. This is going to be your first ever experience playing football at a professional level, what are you doing to prepare yourself for the challenge, and how do you see it being different to your college careers?
I don't think it will be outrageously different all things considered. I expect for there to be a little bumpiness in the beginning as recievers and I learn eachother's tendacies. I think the most important thing will to be to purchase the right equipment, to practice constantly every week, to attend every roll call and to watch NSFL games in a deep manner, predicting the correct winners. I just need to grow every week until I fit the size of the DSFL fish bowl, and then when I get put into the ocean with the real sharks I hope to be ready and shark sized myself.
7. Obviously you all have your $5 million burning a hole in your pocket, and you must have some kind of plan for it, what's your first purchase gonna be?
There are two anwers to this: what I want to do and what I should do. Obviously I want to go spend it all at once place such as a car lot and get me very expensive Italian cars, or to get an expensive beachside house and catch all the rays and waves I can. Unfortunately I know that is a terrible use of my money. I will likely ed up spending it on an ex pro giving me tips every week or even purchasing the finest equipment money can buy.
Well ladies and gentlemen that made it this far, I certainly enjoyed taking the time to get to know our incoming rookie class, I hope you have too. Hopefully makes rooting for us here in the beach a little better, and we look forward to sharing the journey towards the Ultimus again with you all this season.
Douglas Quail, Left Tackle, signing off.
Each rookie was asked the same set of seven carefully crafted questions, designed to unravel the deepest inner workings of their minds, designed by a panel of the best armchair psychologists that I could find with three hours notice on craigslist. These can be found below alonside the answers of our prestigous rookie class:
Johnny Hellzapoppin -@Colabear
Position: Safety
Pick #: 7
1. First of all, congratulations on being drafted into the DSFL. You guys have worked your entire lives for this opportunity. How does it feel to have all that hard work pay off?
It feels great. I hoped rather than expected to go in the first round. So I was pumped when the phone rand and it was Myrtle Beach on the other end looking to take me 7 overall. When a team puts their faith in you like that you want to repay them by putting in more hard work and performances to justify it.
2. Did you have any expectations of where you’d end up leading up to or during the draft? And now knowing how it played out, was there anything you wish you had done differently in advance of the draft or anything you wish had gone differently during?
Most teams expressed some degree of interest. I think Portland would have taken me with their two picks together in the second. I'd a lot of conversations with the Birddogs staff too. But there was something about the conversation with Myrtle Beach that gave me the feeling they wanted to get me on board. I didn't know that would be with their very first pick.
3. What are you most looking forward to about this upcoming season?
Just getting on the field and balling out. Getting that first pick. I one in the prospect bowl and it's an addictive taste once you get used to it.
4. Is there anyone one on the team that has stood out to you as a player? Be that as a leader, friend or general good presence in the locker room?
Prince Vegeta was a guy I looked up to in the DSFL. He's a model professional and it was no surprise to see him taken first overall. He reached out to me before the draft and shared a lot of insight that's helped me learn and grow. Of course we also got talking about the Buccs, the sort of team it is, the locker room, and the void that will be there when he moves on. A void I hope I can fill in time.
5. What does it mean to you to be playing for a team like the Buccaneers? Do you feel like it comes with an added pressure coming off an Ultimus appearance, or do you feel more at ease surrounded by an experienced coaching staff and players who’ve been there before?
It's nice to be somewhere with a culture of success. While a few key players have moved onward and upward, which is no bad thing in itself, it's clear that there's a core here of veterans to learn from and keep that culture rolling. And there are some great guys in the rookie class. Troen and Momento have stood out and Bruce Buckley is a larger than life character.
6. This is going to be your first ever experience playing football at a professional level, what are you doing to prepare yourself for the challenge, and how do you see it being different to your college careers?
I've been working hard in the last few weeks to get up to speed. Literally. Everyone talks about the step up in the speed of the game at this level so I've been working on playing fast and moving sideline to sideline to cover the field as fast as any safety in the draft.
7. Obviously you all have your $5 million burning a hole in your pocket, and you must have some kind of plan for it, what's your first purchase gonna be?
I've already spent it to get the top of the range equipment. I'm confident that I'll be able to afford my other weekly expenses through my sponsorship income.
Troen Egghands -@Troen
Position: Defensive End
Pick #: 15
1. First of all, congratulations on being drafted into the DSFL. You guys have worked your entire lives for this opportunity. How does it feel to have all that hard work pay off?
Well of course it's a relief to finally find out where I'm ending up after all this time and uncertainty. And to avoid a cliche, this is an important step in the process of joining the pro league but it's not just the beginning. I've been working hard to be a great football player and athlete in college and so while getting drafted is definitely a reflection of my work, it's not just getting paid off. It's a key step and one I'm happy to have made and yeah - a relief.
2. Did you have any expectations of where you’d end up leading up to or during the draft? And now knowing how it played out, was there anything you wish you had done differently in advance of the draft or anything you wish had gone differently during?
For expectations, I think there's the aspect of both when I was picked roundwise and then what team in that round I ended up on. And really, in a draft with as many promising college players as this year's, even picking a specific round is hard because equally talented players can be taken a round or two later based on interviews, team culture, or even just a good or bad impression that a GM has. So with that in mind, I thought it was pretty likely that I would go in the first 5 rounds. I believe that my skills in college were a good foundation for a professional player and that I did performed well in the pre-draft training activities to really put in work and show teams that I was willing to train to get better. Additionally, I tried to be more than just a player by applying for a job in the media liason department. That eventually didn't pan out, but I do think it's one way of showing teams that you as aplayer care about what you're doing and not just there to cash paychecks. But still, roundwise, I was a little surprised and of course also honored to go at the end of the second and to be the first DE drafted.
As far as team, I spoke with Myrtle Beach less than several other DSFL organizations and so having them selecting me was not what I'd considered to be the most likely match. I hope that means that I impressed them with my work ethic and hope to show that their faith was well-placed.
For anything that I'd have done differently - I think I regret not spending more time to contact each of the GMs and getting to know them a bit better. I started off looking at how many other players the GMs were going to need to scout in the draft and decided that trying to contact them all could be more annoying than helpful. But now, looking back, I think that trying to get some face-to-face time would be useful to better understand the league and its situation, especially if I want to write useful and insightful coverage of my time in the league. And to be fair, it's not conceptually too late to do this - I just need to try and find some time in the GMs' busy schedules.
3. What are you most looking forward to about this upcoming season?
Well of course I'm looking forward to meeting my teammates, getting to know them better, and having a chance to immerse myself in the culter of the Buccaneers. I grew up and went to school in California so they were rarely the featured local team and so I don't have as good of a sense of what a typical game looks like for them, only prime time and playoff games. Getting a match names to faces, and nicknames to names will be important too. And then moving beyond meeting and to playing is of course going to be great. I'm hoping to keep up my work to understand some of the ins & outs of professional football - seeing ways I can improve, taking advantage of the more advanced training facilities. I'm sure that the first few games are going to be a challenge to just play the game at the professional level. Like they say - the worst player in the DSFL is better than the best player at most colleges. So, getting used to the speed of the game and the overall athleticism - that's definitely going to be a challenge and I'm looking forward to show that I belong here, that I can compete and succeed on this level, and to help my team.
4. Is there anyone one on the team that has stood out to you as a player? Be that as a leader, friend or general good presence in the locker room?
Well as I said above, Myrtle Beach was a bit of a surprise to me as I hadn't really taken the time to go and meet with all their players. So naturally the impressions I have so far are really shallow, just the first few hours practically. Dax Frost of course has been great in getting me situated and giving me some starting pointers on differences in the game at this level. Ghost Pirate has been really supportive of me too, just encouraging me to level up my game in the locker room and to make that next step. I'm sure as I spend more time around everyone I'll learn more and have a good time.
5. What does it mean to you to be playing for a team like the Buccaneers? Do you feel like it comes with an added pressure coming off an Ultimus appearance, or do you feel more at ease surrounded by an experienced coaching staff and players who’ve been there before?
I would always rather be pressured to be good than pressured to avoid bad. And so from what I've seen, I think the Buccaneers are the kind of place pressuring ourselves to succeed. Sure, at some level that means that I'm going to be dealing with others in the locker room trying to make sure I'm always performing at the top of my game and never slacking, but I'll take that pressure, that culture of success as a worthwhile cost when it comes to being the best. That actually reminds me of a guy I know from Austin. He was talking to me about changing jobs since he'd been at his previous job for less than two years and was already considered the guy who knew the most about what and how to do everything. And if you look at people, some would take that as a sign that they'd made it or that they were just that awesome. This guy, though - Josh, his name was - he took that as a sign that he'd hit a ceiling that could only be broken by going elsewhere. So, he left that job and interviewed around until he found somewhere where he wouldn't know everything and could instead learn from others who knew more. He went and had some rocky times, but also some good ones, and ended up learning a lot and creating some great stuff. So I think that's kind of an analogous situation here, where I can learn from players who have been great and from a team that's been to the highest level. And hopefully, like Josh, I and the team can take the next step and create some great stuff in the form of a Ultimus victory.
6. This is going to be your first ever experience playing football at a professional level, what are you doing to prepare yourself for the challenge, and how do you see it being different to your college careers?
Well like I said above, I'm trying to make sure I do everything I can to take advanage of the training opportunities and equipment that we have here at the pro level. Since college has smaller budgets and still prevents players from being paid, there's a lof of options that I have as a professional earning a wage that I just couldn't afford in college. And, as I covered in my media liason application, the injury-prevention nanites used by the professional leagues allow for a much more challenging training environment that I think is already paying off in helping me play faster and stronger than I was in college. Just improving my body isn't sufficient, though, and so I'm also trying to learn what I can about how the other players we're going to be up against compete - looking at scouting reports, seeing what I can learn about their training that I'm not doing or different optimization approaches. And I consider both the NSFL and DSFL as important sources for that information. I'm planning to participate in an NSFL fantasy league this year which I think will be a great way to see how the highest level players perform at a detailed level when seeing their games and stats and comparing it to mine.
Conceptually, I could have been doing a lot of this mental preparation in college too, I guess, but I considered getting my economics degree to be a top priority then. I had several teammates in colleg ethat I'm disppointed to admit saw their education as an impediment to playing football. I can understand that they might want to spend the most time they can on the game, but I think the goal of college is to give us a grounding that goes beyond just being the best sports player. So, while I don't have classes and schoolwork anymore, I do want to continue some of my more cerebral work and try to write about my experiences and learnings in the league. I think that will be a good way of keeping the academic side of my past relevant and hope that it can give me an edge in preparation over the other players.
7. Obviously you all have your $5 million burning a hole in your pocket, and you must have some kind of plan for it, what's your first purchase gonna be?
Well like I said, having a paycheck afforded me the chance to get a class of practice and game equipment that the college level didn't. That's the rational and mostly correct answer.
...but, after seeing Matthew Curran's hat in the draft, I couldn't help but go out and get some ribs from Sweet Carolina's down the road. I've been an equal-opportunity BBQ eater in the past, but I think that the Carolina-style stuff will grow on me.
Octavio Clemente -@Billybolo53
Position: Defensive Tackle
Pick #: 23
1. First of all, congratulations on being drafted into the DSFL. You guys have worked your entire lives for this opportunity. How does it feel to have all that hard work pay off?
It’s an amazing feeling. Where I’m from in the Dominican Republic, no one plays football. I’m hoping to introduce my country to the sport and feel like I’m representing the whole Island every time I suit up. In such a historic draft class, It’s humbling getting some recognition for the time I’ve put into.
2. Did you have any expectations of where you’d end up leading up to or during the draft? And now knowing how it played out, was there anything you wish you had done differently in advance of the draft or anything you wish had gone differently during?
Going in I had a few ideas just based on team needs and scouting interviews. There were only 5 or 6 solid DT prospects and I felt like I was one of the best. Once there were two of us off the board, I knew I would be getting a call very soon. After the expansion teams passed on me, I knew there was a chance I'd fall to Myrtle Beach. Then it happened. I wouldn’t change a thing. I ended up on my favorite team with a great history. I couldn’t be happier with how everything turned out.
3. What are you most looking forward to about this upcoming season?
All my focus is on getting the Buccaneers back to the Ultimini and bringing it home. This organization deserves it and so do their fans. We’re the best DSFL franchise and I’m looking forward to proving that each and every week.
4. Is there anyone one on the team that has stood out to you as a player? Be that as a leader, friend or general good presence in the locker room?
Dax Frost and Prince Vegeta for one. I read two great articles on these two when they were drafted in the NSFL. I was amazed by the talent that Myrtle Beach was able to produce. Both of them have been huge inspirations to me. I also ran across Kacey Dream here and there. He is awesome and supportive to each and everyone he has on his team. Excite to work with him more. I have to give a shout out to RainDelay22 for being the first person to welcome me in the draft process. That was huge especially so early on. Lastly, I’m happy to follow in Rapid Eagles’ footsteps. He played DT for Myrtle Beach last year and has gone on to the NSFL. He has been a great help and I'm hoping to keep in touch with him through the season.
5. What does it mean to you to be playing for a team like the Buccaneers? Do you feel like it comes with an added pressure coming off an Ultimus appearance, or do you feel more at ease surrounded by an experienced coaching staff and players who’ve been there before?
The Buccaneers have an attitude. It’s us versus the world. I’m sure for a lot of people, that doesn’t mesh with who they are, but to me, I thrive off of that. I’m proud to be part of this organization and the track record really speaks for itself. There’s always pressure to perform. You have to put it on yourself if you want to be successful. The attitude around the Buccaneers is one where they expect success. When you walk into a room with that mentality everything else takes care of itself.
6. This is going to be your first ever experience playing football at a professional level, what are you doing to prepare yourself for the challenge, and how do you see it being different to your college careers?
It’s all about trusting the process and my coaching staff. I trust that they will get me prepared and ready. In college, I was beginning to grasp what my potential was. Now I am ready not just to be good but to be great. My goals for this team and myself are through the roof.
7. Obviously you all have your $5 million burning a hole in your pocket, and you must have some kind of plan for it, what's your first purchase gonna be?
I’m going to go back to the Dominican Republic next offseason and build a whole youth facility for football. I want to give all the young people on the island and avenue to explore their talent. I’m hoping to do this all over the developing world as I get traction and expand my outreach. There have been so many people that have helped me along the way and I want to give back to my communities in a big way.
Brandon Booker -@Memento Mori
Position: Cornerback
Pick #: 35
1. First of all, congratulations on being drafted into the DSFL. You guys have worked your entire lives for this opportunity. How does it feel to have all that hard work pay off?
Thank you. Well, I want to start by thanking Myrtle Beach for drafting me. There were a lot of talented players and only a short amount of time for GMs to scout prospects. You're right that I've worked hard for this opportunity, but I wouldn't say it's paid off at all yet. This is just the beginning. It sounds cliché but every practice and every game I'll be going at 100% to make the most of the opportunity Myrtle Beach has given me, and to repay them for showing so much faith in me and drafting me early.
2. Did you have any expectations of where you’d end up leading up to or during the draft? And now knowing how it played out, was there anything you wish you had done differently in advance of the draft or anything you wish had gone differently during?
I had at least one private conversation with all 8 DSFL teams, so prior to the draft I had no idea which team would be the one to take me. Being picked by Myrtle Beach was a very nice surprise as there were several teams that had courted me more heavily. I'm delighted to be a Buccaneer and knowing that this was the end result I wouldn't change anything about what I said or did during the pre-draft process.
3. What are you most looking forward to about this upcoming season?
It's pretty simple - I'm most looking forward to being one part of a successful and talented team! I can't wait to step out on the field in a Myrtle Beach uniform and help us win games. Every team is going to be afraid of us, and they should be.
4. Is there anyone one on the team that has stood out to you as a player? Be that as a leader, friend or general good presence in the locker room?
I'm a big, big fan of our second round pick Troen Egghands. He's a really intelligent guy who knows how to work his way into the backfield for sacks and TFLs. He'll make QBs panic, which is going to make our jobs in the secondary easier.
5. What does it mean to you to be playing for a team like the Buccaneers? Do you feel like it comes with an added pressure coming off an Ultimus appearance, or do you feel more at ease surrounded by an experienced coaching staff and players who’ve been there before?
It's exciting. Watching the championship game I never would've guessed that in the near future Myrtle Beach would be picking me to add to their roster. I don't feel under pressure at all, the Bucs have produced some great DBs (going #1 and #4 in the NSFL draft!) recently so the coaching staff are clearly doing something right. I think MB is the perfect landing spot for a young DB, and I'll be doing all I can to help the team get back to the title game next season. And, hopefully, we'll go one better and win.
6. This is going to be your first ever experience playing football at a professional level, what are you doing to prepare yourself for the challenge, and how do you see it being different to your college careers?
This is what I've been working towards while in high school and college, and in some ways I think it might be easier. I don't have to fit school and classes in around practice and doing gym work, I can give my football career my undivided attention. I get to live my dream - no distractions, just football. I'm ready.
7. Obviously you all have your $5 million burning a hole in your pocket, and you must have some kind of plan for it, what's your first purchase gonna be?
I do have a plan, actually. Like most rookies, a car is #1 on my list. I want something flashy, something that stands out. People on the street are going to know I'm a football player. I'm getting a Peugeot 206.
Heath Evans -@`Feeler`
Position: Tight End
Pick #: 39
1. First of all, congratulations on being drafted into the DSFL. You guys have worked your entire lives for this opportunity. How does it feel to have all that hard work pay off?
It's a strange feeling man, like you said this has been a long time coming and in some senses it feels over - but really this is just the beginning. Who would have thought the rugby player from Australia could have made the switch so successfully? I'm glad I've done my mumma and my family proud, there's a lot that goes into this that the public don't see and they've been behind me every step of the way. I'm proud to represent the Bruins at the next level, and hopefully I can help lead the way for more skill players to come out of Australia.
2. Did you have any expectations of where you’d end up leading up to or during the draft? And now knowing how it played out, was there anything you wish you had done differently in advance of the draft or anything you wish had gone differently during?
There's no doubt I wanted to be in MB. I'm certain if another team had drafted me I'd be happy there too, but MB showed the most interest and I'm glad it's where I landed. Being off the board at #39 didn't seem great at first, but digging deeper I was only the 11th offensive player to be drafted within a huge run of defenders. If I could do it differently I probably wouldn't, because this worked out for me - ending up where I wanted to go. Being the third Tight End off the board left me nervous, as I knew that I was the BPA for that position after that and when MB passed me up at #35 I thought I may end up drafted elsewhere before their next pick came around. Big congrats to my #TEGANG brothers Jeff Phillips and Daniel George, as much as we wanted to play together that would have been too much man meat for one LR.
3. What are you most looking forward to about this upcoming season?
Making plays, supporting the team and developing as a player. There's a long road ahead to make sure we continue last year's trend of being a dominant team, but I believe we have a great group of S22 draftees that we can work with to get there. I want to open holes for my Running Backs, help my Offensive Line half brothers protect my Quarterback, and I want to catch passes for me. With Bruce [Buckley] and I on the same team there could be some behind the scenes mischief Aussie style, but I'll try to keep the reigns on it as best I can.
4. Is there anyone one on the team that has stood out to you as a player? Be that as a leader, friend or general good presence in the locker room?
Prince Vegeta reached out to me early on in the process and helped me work things out a bit - I'm certain he put in a good word for me that helped me end up on the team too. Simon is bae. My new GMs Frost and Cory have been a great help with all kinds of things including my training plan and even fantasy football advice. So far I haven't met a player or team manager that hasn't been welcoming and friendly - a tradition I plan to help keep alive!
5. What does it mean to you to be playing for a team like the Buccaneers? Do you feel like it comes with an added pressure coming off an Ultimus appearance, or do you feel more at ease surrounded by an experienced coaching staff and players who’ve been there before?
To me playing for a contender was important coming into this league, I was keen to be on an established team with a dominating presence and I'm stoked to be here on a team with history too. I don't feel any added pressure, regardless of who I was drafted by or at what position, I was always going to be the same player putting in the same effort -100%- towards improving and winning games. The coaching and management experience should definitely come in handy to help me learn the game and be more effective. I'm just as excited about our class of rookies as I am the rest of the team though, we can really be the future of this league and I hope I can help them develop as well.
6. This is going to be your first ever experience playing football at a professional level, what are you doing to prepare yourself for the challenge, and how do you see it being different to your college careers?
I've been playing professional sports since I was 14, the only difference will be the size of the crowd. We didn't get many fans along for developmental rugby games back home, but I feel that the UCLA crowds have prepared me well in that sense. All I'm doing to prepare is putting in work, every day. Consistency is key to being the best that you can be. Hit me on twitter if you want to work out - I'm almost always in the gym or on the field.
7. Obviously you all have your $5 million burning a hole in your pocket, and you must have some kind of plan for it, what's your first purchase gonna be?
Yeah I've got plans, I'm gonna buy myself some new training sessions and some pieces of equipment to help me develop. Some of these fools are going out there blowing contract money on name changes and ish, but my only focus is being the best player I can be, to appropriately reward the Buccaneers for having faith in me. If there's a bit left over I'm gonna fly my family out for a few games so they can see what their efforts have helped me to achieve.
Bruce Buckley -@NicholasTheGreat
Position: Offensive Line
Pick #: 59
1. First of all, congratulations on being drafted into the DSFL. You guys have worked your entire lives for this opportunity. How does it feel to have all that hard work pay off?
It feels really great to get into the DSFL, I know I have add some behavioural issues recently and it feels great for that to be behind me now. I know I have not had the college career that people may look at but i have the ability and strength to make it far in this league.
2. Did you have any expectations of where you’d end up leading up to or during the draft? And now knowing how it played out, was there anything you wish you had done differently in advance of the draft or anything you wish had gone differently during?
Going into the draft i was unsure of when i was going to go overall due to the prejudices offensive lineman have against them. #OLforProBowl. So it was hard to determine my overall draft position goal. My primary goal was to be one of the top two offensive line taken off of the board. There was a rivalry with fellow prospect Tommy Sacamano. I knew Tommy and I were the best prospects in this draft. Our rivalry went a little far over social media and through articles but it was almost out of respect as we knew we were the best ones out there. So when Portland took the first offensive lineman off the board and it was neither of us, i was absolutely shocked.
When Tommy went off second, I didn't mind that because i knew we were neck and neck. At this point the doubts started to creep in about whether or not I would go shortly and be the next one off the board. When i found out i went to Myrtle Beach and they had traded up to get me, I was ecstatic in being drafted and that the team has shown faith in me by ensuring they got me.
There was nothing i can do to have improved my draft position, what happened, happened. I'm happy with where i am and the circumstances. If i had to change things, I wouldn't be happy with myself knowing it wasn't for the right reason.
3. What are you most looking forward to about this upcoming season?
I'm most looking forward to developing myself and getting to know the team in the locker room. They seem like a great group of people who I am really looking forward to knowing and telling them about myself. I'm also really hoping to help this team go one step further this year and capture the Ultimini.
4. Is there anyone one on the team that has stood out to you as a player? Be that as a leader, friend or general good presence in the locker room?
I haven't been around enough to determine a specific person. Especially since i wasn't scouted by a specific person in private messages. But what I have seen is a positive space where everyone is focused on development and assisting one another and becoming the greatest players and team in the league.
5. What does it mean to you to be playing for a team like the Buccaneers? Do you feel like it comes with an added pressure coming off an Ultimus appearance, or do you feel more at ease surrounded by an experienced coaching staff and players who’ve been there before?
Being an offensive lineman, it is great to be playing for the Buccaneers as i know they respect the position unlike other teams who may not give it the respect it deserves. The team performance from last season doesn't really concern me as I am a new player. It does give me relief knowing that the team knows what they are doing. Especially in contrast to other teams, especially after their draft performance and moves made during it. It does seem like its a great team with plenty of skills ready to win.
6. This is going to be your first ever experience playing football at a professional level, what are you doing to prepare yourself for the challenge, and how do you see it being different to your college careers?
I didn't have a college career so it is hard to say how the game will change. This will be my first actual foray into professional football and i am extremely excited in how it will go.
7. Obviously you all have your $5 million burning a hole in your pocket, and you must have some kind of plan for it, what's your first purchase gonna be?
Saving it for a while and then upgrading my equipment.
Leeroy Jenkins -@dahayn
Position: Linebacker -> Wide Reciever
Pick #: 127
1. First of all, congratulations on being drafted into the DSFL. You guys have worked your entire lives for this opportunity. How does it feel to have all that hard work pay off?
Amazing! No words can describe what this opportunity will mean to myself and my family! I know this is just a first step but it's one that only the smallest fraction of athletes are gifted. Now it's my job to prove to this franchise that they made the right choice!
2. Did you have any expectations of where you’d end up leading up to or during the draft? And now knowing how it played out, was there anything you wish you had done differently in advance of the draft or anything you wish had gone differently during?
I had talks with a few GMs and scouts but you never really know if they are being real with you or just talking. My conversation with RainDelay22 however seemed genuine and no lie, I had my hopes up whenever MB came up to the podium. Realisticaly, I didn't see myself going until the mid-rounds but was hopeful that I would go in the first half of the draft. And I guess the Big Guy Upstairs was looking out for me once again because not only did I go in the first half, but to the team that I was hoping to pick me up. I know I could have been more vocal with the rest of the rookies to show my presence around the league pre-draft and I could have fit in a few more training days but I think things happen how they're supposed to happen. Destiny, if you want to call it that.
3. What are you most looking forward to about this upcoming season?
-Honestly, I'm mostly looking forward to learning how to be a successfull athlete in this league. God gave me talent, and I work hard to maximize what he gave me. This team saw something in me and they think I can contribute alongside my brothers in the locker room to traslating our talent and hard work into wins. I want to have one of those 15 year careers so I know in addition to working hard everyday, I'm hoping to find mentorship on how to also work smart.
4. Is there anyone one on the team that has stood out to you as a player? Be that as a leader, friend or general good presence in the locker room?
A lot of my fellow rookies seem to be amazing guys. I can tell we're going to all get along great! But so far the ones who have reached out and helped me the most are RainDelay22 and Frostbite.
5. What does it mean to you to be playing for a team like the Buccaneers? Do you feel like it comes with an added pressure coming off an Ultimus appearance, or do you feel more at ease surrounded by an experienced coaching staff and players who’ve been there before?
I do feel the presure to be the best that I can be, but that's not nessesarily a bad thing. It's pressure that turns coal into diamonds. Well, pressure and time. I think that's what I need to be successfull. I know the coaches will teach us how to use our tools and put us in the best position for wins. All I have to do pay attention, practice hard and practice smart, and stay healthy. If there's something I'm not understanding, I also know we have veteran players here who can provide that piece that I'm missing to complete the puzzle.
6. This is going to be your first ever experience playing football at a professional level, what are you doing to prepare yourself for the challenge, and how do you see it being different to your college careers?
I am a true rookie. However, that's not stopping me from wanting to be the #1 guy at my position even though I have a lot of work to do. I know that as well. No one is just going to hand me their starting role. In college, specificaly because of the smaller schools in the Big Sky Conference, the competition wasn't as fierce as what I'm expecting here in MB. My mind is right. My body is right. I'm going to be going head-to-head with the best of the best. Testing myself every second of every day. And I cannot wait.
7. Obviously you all have your $5 million burning a hole in your pocket, and you must have some kind of plan for it, what's your first purchase gonna be?
-I got myself a used Toyota to get around, some groceries to fuel this body, paid off all my momma's bills and got her a new Tesla. Everything else goes to training so I can secure a second contract. This oppertunity is not only a way to get myself and this franchise into the record books but it's a way to secure myself and my family's future. Work hard and smart now so I can reap the rewards for the rest of my life.
Brendan Lanier -@jdourtled
Position: Linebacker
Pick #: 135
1. First of all, congratulations on being drafted into the DSFL. You guys have worked your entire lives for this opportunity. How does it feel to have all that hard work pay off?
It feels really good, hearing my name on draft night is a moment I'll cherish for the rest of my life.
2. Did you have any expectations of where you’d end up leading up to or during the draft? And now knowing how it played out, was there anything you wish you had done differently in advance of the draft or anything you wish had gone differently during?
I had a feeling after the interviews that I'd up in Myrtle Beach. If I had to change one thing prior to the draft I'd probably would've tried to be more proactie in getting my name out there, obviously pick 135 is still the first half of the draft, but I'd imagine nothing can beat the feeling of being a 1st/2nd round pick.
3. What are you most looking forward to about this upcoming season?
Just the experience of being in a professional enviroment
4. Is there anyone one on the team that has stood out to you as a player? Be that as a leader, friend or general good presence in the locker room?
Not really, if anyone I'd say all of the rookies, all of us seem to be eager and ready to train/grind
5. What does it mean to you to be playing for a team like the Buccaneers? Do you feel like it comes with an added pressure coming off an Ultimus appearance, or do you feel more at ease surrounded by an experienced coaching staff and players who’ve been there before?
Experience is going to help a lot in not only in the development of my skills, but also my knowledge of the game that could help with possibly becoming a future GM. As for pressure, if I'm being completely blunt, I don't think I have much pressure from people outside myself, with being a lower round pick I'm more of a backup/developmental prospect, so I'm gonna do my best to work my way into the rotation
6. This is going to be your first ever experience playing football at a professional level, what are you doing to prepare yourself for the challenge, and how do you see it being different to your college careers?
Train as hard as possible. In college I was a big fish in a small pond, but realistically I see myself as a rotation piece that can be a good locker room guy and fill in at any position needed, whether that be on offense or defense.
7. Obviously you all have your $5 million burning a hole in your pocket, and you must have some kind of plan for it, what's your first purchase gonna be?
I'm not 100% sure, may invest and save up for the future, football doesn't last forever after all.
J.B. Apollo -@Apollo
Position: RB
Pick #: 136
1. First of all, congratulations on being drafted into the DSFL. You guys have worked your entire lives for this opportunity. How does it feel to have all that hard work pay off?
It obviously feels great to be another step closer to my goal of being the best to ever play. But I have temper that excitemnt with knowing that there's still a long way to go.
2. Did you have any expectations of where you’d end up leading up to or during the draft? And now knowing how it played out, was there anything you wish you had done differently in advance of the draft or anything you wish had gone differently during?
I performed well in the Prospect bowl as the workhorse back for Miami, we unfortunately lost in the semi's so i didnt get to show my stuff on the biggest stage. I think I was seen as somewhat of a project compared to some other guys in my position, so I fell farther than I originally hoped.
3. What are you most looking forward to about this upcoming season?
I'm looking forward to putting in work and learning the ropes from my teammates, growing my knowledge andbecoming the best rookie RB this League has ever seen.
4. Is there anyone one on the team that has stood out to you as a player? Be that as a leader, friend or general good presence in the locker room?
Dax Frost. Not only is he my mentor at RB, he's been helping me with every aspect of getting used to the League as well.
5. What does it mean to you to be playing for a team like the Buccaneers? Do you feel like it comes with an added pressure coming off an Ultimus appearance, or do you feel more at ease surrounded by an experienced coaching staff and players who’ve been there before?
It feels like there is an expectation for greatness, which is great to have in a locker room. You know that evryone is going to be putting in thw work in thewieght room, watching film, staying after practice to get that little bit of extra work in. It makes me feel at ease that these are guys you can rely on, both on the field and off.
6. This is going to be your first ever experience playing football at a professional level, what are you doing to prepare yourself for the challenge, and how do you see it being different to your college careers?
Im working with some of my teammates who have been here for a while, trying to get acclimated to what its like in the League. Just building my body as well, the physical toll this seasin is going to take is something ive never experienced before, so i need to be as fit as possible. I feel like even against some of the best college teams there are positions that you can just tell they dont have guys that belong in the next level. Thats no longer the case, everyone here deserves it, and wants to do wahtever they can to stay.
7. Obviously you all have your $5 million burning a hole in your pocket, and you must have some kind of plan for it, what's your first purchase gonna be?
I know it's not gonna be the flashiest answer, but im going to put a lot of it away and invest it. but im definitely going to but my
Rico Martinez -@[Embrace_Fitz_magic39]
Position: Cornerback
Pick #: 144
1. First of all, congratulations on being drafted into the DSFL. You guys have worked your entire lives for this opportunity. How does it feel to have all that hard work pay off?
Just feels good for all that hard work to pay off, coach Muschamp and the staff at Carolina always told me that you keep your nose to the grindstone and stay humble you end up successful.
2. Did you have any expectations of where you’d end up leading up to or during the draft? And now knowing how it played out, was there anything you wish you had done differently in advance of the draft or anything you wish had gone differently during?
This was a deep draft for corner, I knew that it would be difficult to shine among the gems but overall I feel that I came out well and while I have room to prove myself it always helps to keep a chip on your shoulder and stay hungry.
3. What are you most looking forward to about this upcoming season?
As a rookie you walk onto that field with expectations set high by yourself, the fans and the coaches and my goal for my rookie season is to meet and surpass those expectations and solodify my place on this team.
4. Is there anyone one on the team that has stood out to you as a player? Be that as a leader, friend or general good presence in the locker room?
My man RainDelay22 reached out to me during the rookie process and answered questions that I had and made the process a lot smoother and intuitive for me, real swell guy and glad we share the same colors.
5. What does it mean to you to be playing for a team like the Buccaneers? Do you feel like it comes with an added pressure coming off an Ultimus appearance, or do you feel more at ease surrounded by an experienced coaching staff and players who’ve been there before?
Man, it means the world to me to be playing for the Buccs, I grew up in Carolina played college in Carolina and now I'm a pro for Carolina and its time to make Carolina King. As for Ultimus its a shame that it got away last year but we know we can get to it if we work hard and we know how to get there. Next step is to win
6. This is going to be your first ever experience playing football at a professional level, what are you doing to prepare yourself for the challenge, and how do you see it being different to your college careers?
When it comes to the pros what you hear is its all about the mindset and getting in the groove, gotta catch up to the pace of the game. I expect more speed and skill so you gotta hold a higher expectation for yourself and work harder to overcome those obstacles.
7. Obviously you all have your $5 million burning a hole in your pocket, and you must have some kind of plan for it, what's your first purchase gonna be?
Gotta get that new Peloton and work these calves, receivers in the DSFL don't play.
Tom Sofa -@NamelessNate
Position: Quarterback
Pick #: 271, "Mr. Irrelevant"
1. First of all, congratulations on being drafted into the DSFL. You guys have worked your entire lives for this opportunity. How does it feel to have all that hard work pay off?
Honestly it feels good to get drafted onto the stepping stone to the biggest stage in the football world. Although it would be a lie to say I wasn't disappointed in being heralded as "Mr. Irrelevant," but I know that all of the other GMs will come to regret not picking me up sooner. I know I put in the work my entire college career, and I will continue to put in the work at this stage in the game. The Developmental Simulation Football League and the National Simulation Football League are not ready for what I am about to unleash upon them.
2. Did you have any expectations of where you’d end up leading up to or during the draft? And now knowing how it played out, was there anything you wish you had done differently in advance of the draft or anything you wish had gone differently during?
As one of the last QBs to declare for the draft I did have expectations of being a later round pick. I did not however expect to be the very last pick. All that it tells me is that there were 270 wrong choices made before Myrtle beach selected (were forced to select?) me. If anything I wish that maybe I declared sooner so I could have more roll calls under my belt, but in the end it doesn't even matter. 2-3 seasons from now Myrtle Beach will be champions and all of the other GMs will regret making 15+ draft selections before me.
3. What are you most looking forward to about this upcoming season?
I am most looking forward to sitting on the bench and ammassing Total Points Earned. Once the GM and I feel that I am ready to see the field I will then take it by storm. I don't expect that to happen until later in the season though. I don't hold many expectations for the team as I know I am not here to carry them just yet, and I do not expect to even be a minor part in their success.
4. Is there anyone one on the team that has stood out to you as a player? Be that as a leader, friend or general good presence in the locker room?
I love the whole locker room. As soon as I was the last to arrive I was swarmed by a lot of good vibes and friendly faces. They all know that they won big with the last overall pick and I know I won big by finding a place to call home in Myrtle Beach! I really like the team here and I am ready to be their QB when they feel I am ready, and until I get "too old" for the developmental league.
5. What does it mean to you to be playing for a team like the Buccaneers? Do you feel like it comes with an added pressure coming off an Ultimus appearance, or do you feel more at ease surrounded by an experienced coaching staff and players who’ve been there before?
Where I am not the starting QB I do not feel as much pressure, and where there is a winning culture it does feel like a great place to land. Whether we make it to the Ultimus again or not doesn't necessarily feel like it lands on my shoulders, but I do feel that once the reigns are handed to me it will be a different story. I simultaniously am afraid and ready for that day to come, for the Buccanneers to become mine and the resposibility of a championship to fall to me.
6. This is going to be your first ever experience playing football at a professional level, what are you doing to prepare yourself for the challenge, and how do you see it being different to your college careers?
I don't think it will be outrageously different all things considered. I expect for there to be a little bumpiness in the beginning as recievers and I learn eachother's tendacies. I think the most important thing will to be to purchase the right equipment, to practice constantly every week, to attend every roll call and to watch NSFL games in a deep manner, predicting the correct winners. I just need to grow every week until I fit the size of the DSFL fish bowl, and then when I get put into the ocean with the real sharks I hope to be ready and shark sized myself.
7. Obviously you all have your $5 million burning a hole in your pocket, and you must have some kind of plan for it, what's your first purchase gonna be?
There are two anwers to this: what I want to do and what I should do. Obviously I want to go spend it all at once place such as a car lot and get me very expensive Italian cars, or to get an expensive beachside house and catch all the rays and waves I can. Unfortunately I know that is a terrible use of my money. I will likely ed up spending it on an ex pro giving me tips every week or even purchasing the finest equipment money can buy.
Well ladies and gentlemen that made it this far, I certainly enjoyed taking the time to get to know our incoming rookie class, I hope you have too. Hopefully makes rooting for us here in the beach a little better, and we look forward to sharing the journey towards the Ultimus again with you all this season.
Douglas Quail, Left Tackle, signing off.
Quote:9,429 words, if the payout could be split equally between all the participants equally, that would be perfect. Should be within the 1.5x media window also.
@DynamicDoug @NamelessNate @[Embrace_Fitz_magic39] @Apollo @jdourtled @dahayn @NicholasTheGreat @`Feeler` @Memento Mori @Billybolo53 @Troen @Colabear