You want to win? Prove it!

     As the rosters are locked in for the season ahead and the amount of professional talent in the CXBL rises, I think it is a good time to discuss what it takes to be successful. Though I am sure some will disagree, I truly believe that it takes more than one or two talented players to make a team. 
      While I have never been a member of a paintball team, I have competed at the national level as a competitive synchronized skater. Now before you angrily post your disgruntled comments on how dis-alike paintball and synchronized skating are, hear me out. A synchronized skating team can only be successful if all of the skaters act as one unit. Everyone must move at precisely the same time—each stroke of the skate, each turn of the head, each lift of the arm. This means that if just one skater is out of time, the whole routine can be lost or someone can be injured.
      We’ve all heard the saying that a chain is only as strong as its weakest link and my experience as a competitive athlete and captain of my team taught me that a team, no matter the sport, is only as successful as its weakest athlete. In other words, puting an Olympic quality skater on a synchronized skating team will not make up for those who are out of time. One athlete’s strength alone does not equate success for the team. As the now-retired professional basketball player Kareem Abdul-Jabbar has said, “One man can be a crucial ingredient on a team, but one man cannot make a team.” I strongly believe that this is true in ANY team sport. Unless a match is somehow played only with one-on-ones, this is true of paintball also. 
     Paintball, like any team sport, requires a team to work together in order to achieve. Babe Ruth, one of the most skilled major league baseball players of all time said, “The way a team plays as a whole determines its success. You may have the greatest bunch of individual stars in the world, but if they don’t play together, the club won’t be worth a dime.” If your back players are doing their job, your front players have more freedom to do work in their position. If your front players mess up, this puts pressure on the back players. If one player takes a penalty, it hurts the whole line. You win and lose together so you need to play point-by-point together! That is not to say that talent isn’t worth anything; the giftedness of individual players is certainly going to help you out on the field but those players must be able to put the needs of the team first and must be able to work alongside their teammates. 
     Now, it is easy to predict that the teams with the greatest number of talented players will be among the most successful but talent is not the single most important qualifier for the success of the team.  “In most domains, talent is overrated compared to determination…because after a while determination starts to look like talent (http://www.paulgraham.com/determination.html).” In fact, it is scientifically proven that determination is a greater indicator of success than talent alone. That is to say that if you are determined enough, even if you do not have the most statistically gifted players, success is still within your reach. 
     If a team has a unified purpose and the drive and determination to work toward that goal, they will inevitably grow in skill and as they grow in skill, they will inevitably win more points. That being said, a determined player without discipline is worth little. Your players must be capable of disciplining themselves to become better at a skill in order to work toward the final goal. Just because I WANT to be a rock star doesn’t mean I will wake up one day with the ability to play bass and sing like I belong on Canadian idol. I must first take the steps needed to learn how to play bass and have the vocal training to hit different notes and then I must be willing to spend hours and hours refining those skills. You absolutely MUST discipline yourself in order to better your skills as a player. If you have weak laners, they should be working on their laning; if you have players who can’t run-and-gun, they better be running-and-gunning until they reach the point of exhaustion. Determination means nothing without discipline. Actions matter more than words. You want to win? Prove it. 

The best teams will be those who have a COMBINATION of talent, determination, self-discipline and the ability to work together as a team.

I'll leave off with two quotes that I believe speak for themselves...

"When a team outgrows individual performance and learns team confidence, excellence becomes a reality." - Joe Paterno (American College football coach who coached Penn State for over 46 years).

 "Every worthwhile accomplishment, big or little, has its stages of drudgery and triumph; a beginning, a struggle and a victory." - Ghandi

What do you think it takes to succeed? 

The 2011 NAX champions -Windsor Lockdown

Photo Credit: Jeremy Maillet/Playonpics

Signing off, 

The Paintball Wife

Pre-season Interview #9 - Toronto Rockstar

I apologize for the lack of a post over the last few days. I am a teacher and this just happens to be a very busy time for me as I write report cards, go on field trips, and try to tie up loose ends before the school year is over. So far, I have made the effort to do a post a day but unfortunately, this has not been an option the past few days. That being said, I am back today with the ninth pre-season interview! 

     This interviewee is a brand new face at the CXBL level of the sport but he has been playing paintball competitively for several years and has worked his way up through the divisions. Tommy Nguyen began his paintball journey playing at the RXL level with Hespeler Hooligans. After playing two seasons with Hespeler, he made the bump to MXL rosetered with Kawartha Confusion. Nguyen made a roster switch again in the 2011 season to play with Brooklin Fingers in the MXL division. 
    This season will mark Tommy’s debut as a CXBL player on the newly franchised Toronto Rockstar CXBL Elite team. This new team seems to be a mix of CXBL and MXL caliber players from many different 2011 teams. As of now, their current roster shows no sign of added talent from the States but it will be interesting to see if that changes before the rosters lock on Monday. While they may be a new blend, they have undoubtedly been practicing hard to come together as a team and it will be exciting to see how Tommy and his Rockstar counterparts mesh on the field.  
    Nguyen was known for being a midfield and snake player in his RXL and MXL days, however, he says, “this off season I’ve worked hard on playing both Dorito side and snake.” So we may seem him switching things up in the 2012 matches. Tommy added, “speed and laning is what I feel I bring best to the field. Hopefully this proves true during the season.” If there is anything I am certain of, it’s that agility and laning will be much needed skills in the highly competitive CXBL Elite division. 

Tommy- It’s good for the lower division players to see that it’s possible to work your way up to become a CXBL caliber player. You will have a lot of eyes on you this season to see how you do. Best of luck to you and your teammates in the season ahead!

 

Photo Credit: paintballphotography.com

• What have you been doing as a team during the off-season to prepare for the 2012 CXBL season? 

  “Practice, practice, practice! Ever since the first 2012 CXBL layout was released we have spent our weekends practicing. Some of the team has also remained active in international events such as PALS Thailand while others have gone down to the United States to play the NPPL.”

• What have you been doing as an individual to prepare for the coming season?

 “I usually start off my day with paintball in mind. This gives me the motivation to go to the gym at least three times a week(Mon, Weds and Fri). And off days at the gym usually means that i'll run 2.5 km before settling down in the evening to watch Behind the bunker if it’s on. And of course practicing every chance I get.”

• What do you feel is your team’s greatest strength headed into this season?

 “If there was one strength Rockstar has headed into the season it would the experience on the team. We have players who have won CXBL and are back for more. Their guidance, skill, and ability make us who we are.”

• Which team do you feel will be your greatest competition this season and why?

“I can't say for sure because every team in CXBL elite this year is strong but us being a Toronto team it will be exciting to see who wins the battle of the GTA. In which case it'd be Scarborough Hustle.”

• Which team do you feel will be the weakest this season and why?

 “Refer to last question ;) the first part”

• Which player on your own team do you most respect as a player and why?

“It would be a tie between Jeff and Steve. Both have tasted victory (with Windsor) in the CXBL and both have been excellent in developing the team.”

• Were there any changes this off-season that surprised you? For example, roster changes or league changes.

 “A lot more American interest on certain teams.”

Thanks for the interview Tommy. All the best to Rockstar in the 2012 season!

Signing off, 

The Paintball Wife

You Said It!

     We are now two weeks away from CXBL Central's Event 1 and I am starting to feel the hunger for the sidelines. I love the rushing adrenaline that practically oozes from the players, the eager voices shouting bunker calls and G's, and the excitement of watching amazing players go head-to-head. Paintball is much more than a sport; It's a culture. One in which your teammates become your family, the field becomes your home, and your only hunger is for a W.
     I may not get to battle it out on the field, but I am a sideline warrior. I could call bunker calls until I am blue in the face and anyone who knows me will tell you that I enjoy winning as much as the guys on the field. I live and breathe the sport, heck I LIVE with the sport! With a husband and two housemates who all play in the CXBL and a consistent stream of teammates and competition coming and going from our home, I HAVE to be well-versed in the sport in order to survive! Paintball is my culture too.

So this is why I've started crossing off the days on my calendar until Event 1. Why do you live for the sport? What does the culture mean to you? Post up.

Signing off,
The Paintball Wife

Pre-season Interview #8 - Tremblant Cowboys

     This interviewee has been playing competitive paintball for 12 years and has experience playing for some amazing national and international teams. He is also one of the faces of BuyPBL and has been for the entire time he’s been involved in the sport. Phil Guy has had the opportunity to play on some great international teams including Shockwave Canada in the PSP and Edmonton Impact in the NPPL. 
     During his time with Shockwave, the team had several top four finishes in PSP’s division 2 and was known for being one of the only teams representing Canada at a higher level in an American series at that time. Guy played with Edmonton Impact in the semi-pro division of the NPPL where they also performed quite well. Phil’s most recent international venture involved a trip to Thailand to play in the PALS series. His team brought back the Shockwave name and proceeded to win the 1^st leg of PALS. Guy’s international experience has been marked with success and that success continues within the CXBL. 
     Phil began playing in the CXBL when it was first created in 2005 and has since won 2 championships, once with Montreal Shock and once with Kamikaze. He was also the captain of the Eastern CXBL All-stars team in 2008 when the Central and Eastern All-stars game finished in a tie. Phil returns to the CXBL this season with the 2012 Tremblant Cowboys under the umbrella of the new CXBL Elite division. He is known for being a front snake player but is confidant in his versatility. Afterall, Guy has been a captain and a coach for the past 6 years! Phil says, “I am known to be a little tough on players but I believe I am tough but fair. All I want is to bring out the best in every player. I want to win at all times no matter what I am doing in life.” 
     Guy's competitive spirit has led to many successes thus far and his experience in many different paintball series has taught him to be adaptable on the field. We can expect Phil and his Cowboys counterparts to push hard this season and they have already been recognized by their competition as the most challenging roster (on paper at least). Guy, like many of the other interviewees, says, “I have had the honour of meeting some of the greatest people and have made friends for life because of paintball.” To me, this just reinforces the idea that paintball is a lifestyle. And as anyone living the life of a paintballer knows, your team is family and winning is always the goal. As Phil says, “I am a competitor! I hate to lose more than I like to win!”

Phil-You are undoubtedly one of the most experienced players in Canadian paintball.  Many in the CXBL community share your competitive spirit but few have tasted success as much as you and this make you an excellent role model for the younger players!

 Photo Credit: Dez Residentevilchef Foo

• What have you been doing as a team during the off-season to prepare for the 2012 CXBL season?

“This off-season has been a little more difficult than the past ones for myself as my wife gave birth to our first child. The difficulty is trying to balance my time between a child that needs and deserves so much attention and the game I truly love.”

• What have you been doing as a team during the off-season to prepare for the 2012 CXBL season?

“The team has continued to play ball during the off-season which is what you need to do to be successful. We won the first leg of the PALS series in Thailand as well as we are playing other leagues in order to get more game time.”

• What do you feel is your team’s greatest strength headed into this season?

“Our teams greatest strength is that we know how to win the big games when it really counts. We definitely have the experience on our side as every single player on the team has not only won the CXBL championship but has won other major events.”

• Which team do you feel will be your greatest competition this season and why?

“This is a difficult question to answer as players love to jump from team to team for some reason looking out for themselves and not the bigger picture. Saying this I will probably have to go with Thunder as they were a contender in last year's Richmond Cup and seem to have a similar roster in 2012.”

• Which team do you feel will be the weakest this season and why?

“I hate to say it but I really do believe an eastern team will fall to MXL this year. The teams here have some talent but lack experience and depth on their roster. Before they can win in the CXBL they really need to figure out what they really want... to play for fun or to take this seriously and build a contending team.”

• Which player on your own team do you most respect as a player and why?

“I am not able to answer this question. I truly believe that no matter what happens we win and lose as a team. I respect all my players and what they bring to the table.”

• Were there any changes this off-season that surprised you? For example, roster changes or league changes.

“There is nothing that really surprises me. I am excited that the league has brought the NAX finals back to Canada and added the MXL, RXL and CX4. This will be an unbelievable experience for them and I am glad to see it happen.”

• Is there anything else you would like to add?

“Thank you to everybody behind the scenes that nobody gets to see. We only see the final product when we arrive to the field to play but there is a lot a work that goes on to make sure the show is perfect. Let's appreciate all the hard work they do and respect them for that. Thank you Niki for taking time from your personal life to make this happen. Job well done!”

Thank you, Phil! It's interviewing players like you that makes this blog so much fun to write! Best of luck to you and to your Tremblant Cowboys teammates in the 2012 CXBL Elite season! I won't be surprised to see you at NAX.

Signing off, 

The Paintball Wife

Pre-season Interview #7 - Kitchener Recon

     This interviewee is well known amongst the Canadian paintball community for his dedication to the sport of paintball. He is a player, a team owner, a coach, and a store owner, all of which point to his passion for seeing the paintball world thrive! Nelson Fonseca’s paintball journey began 6 years ago when he started playing MXL for the first time for Kitchener Recon in the CXBL and for his own team Bronx Hate in the AXBL. 
     Fonseca entered the world of paintball a little later in life than most of the athletes he plays against and he says, “If I had to say one thing I wish was different, it would only be that I wish I had found this sport sooner in my life.” Nelson’s age hasn’t held him back though, he is known for being a solid back player and his passion for the sport is in no short supply.  Nelson and his Kitchener Recon counterparts won the MXL division in 2009 and made the bump to the CXBL in the 2010 season, even proceeding to make the NAX championships that same year! Fonseca purchased the Recon franchise when they were still an MXL squad and is still a proud owner and member of the team. He also owns and coaches Mississauga Hate in the RXL division and helps to give leadership and coaching to this year’s Waterloo Wolves-MXL, Essex Distortion-RXL, and Pretrolia Pirates-CX4. He says, “This makes for some really busy weekends. Since the start of the outdoor season, I’ve been at the field both Saturday and Sunday from morning until night. But it’s worth it for the love of the sport.” 
     Most recently, Nelson made the decision to open Recon Paintball, a paintball store in Kitchener, Ontario. He explains, “It’s another way of me trying to help the sport grow. The more people that are exposed to the sport the better; people will want to try something new. I love this sport so much; I only want to see it continue to grow.” Be sure to check out Recon Paintball on Facebook or hop into the store to say hello and check out some of the great products. It is clear that while Nelson began his paintball journey later than most, his is an adventure that is far from over. 

 Nelson- Thanks for fitting this into your busy schedule! You are a truly dedicated and passionate player and I know you are a role model to many of the younger teams. 

 

Photo Credit: One Shot Photography

• What have you been doing as a team during the off-season to prepare for the 2012 CXBL season?

 “Well to be truthful Recon took some much needed time off this past off season; a lot of the guys are in University and College so they needed to focus on that.  Although we did have a few practices in the off season, some of the team did attend a lot of our junior teams’ practices and joined in with them in order to keep rolling our guns and keep some of the rust off.  A couple of us played in events such as in Thailand and NPPL events with other teams.”

What have you been doing as an individual to prepare for the coming season?

“Haha, I’m getting too old for this, so I have a lot more to do in order to keep being able to play and at least try to keep up with the younger guys.  Then there is all the preparation, scheduling practices, figuring out layouts and all that fancy stuff.”

• What do you feel is your team’s greatest strength headed into this season?

 “Recon’s greatest strength going into this season, like the past season is for the most part we’ve all been playing together now for several years, aside from picking up a few players this season even those we are and have been friends with for quite some time now. Given the fact we are all very close to each other, we know how each player plays and we can pretty much almost read a teammate’s mind and know what his every move is going to be.”

    

• Which team do you feel will be your greatest competition this season and why?

 “I would have to say, and I think everyone will agree, the Tremblant Cowboys- they have made some really amazing moves when it comes to their roster, but it really comes down to what happens at the event, each match is anyone’s for the taking, just depends how bad you want it.  I think if we stay out of the penalty box we should do fine against them.”

• Which team do you feel will be the weakest this season and why?

“I don’t think any team this season is a weak team, all teams have done what they can in their power in order to stay competitive in the league, with the vast number of pro players coming into Canada to play this season, I think it’s anyone’s for the taking, once again a lot of teams are hungry for the W’s and all teams are going to be competitive in the league this season.”

• Which player on your own team do you most respect as a player and why?

 “This is an unfair question we have a roster of 14 players right now and I respect them all the same, my team mates are like family to me and I hold the utmost respect equally for all of them.”

•  Were there any changes this off-season that surprised you? For example, roster changes or league changes.

 “Nothing really that stands out, all the roster changes were expected as teams needed to make appropriate moves in order to maintain a competitive standard that other teams have set.  Each year more and more pro’s from the US are coming into Canada to play in the league, primarily because they know the league is well run and is the original format of  X-Ball.  As far as the league changes, I think the league goes to great lengths to cater to the players and make it the best league to play in.”

•    Is there anything else you would like to add?

“Just like to say thanks to the BUYPBL, CXBL, Flagraiders and Commando Paintball for putting on such great events each and every year. As well I’d like to say good luck to all teams in the league this year; it’s going to be interesting to see the outcome of all divisions this year.”

Thank you, Nelson. I appreciate you making the time to answer my questions. All the best to the Recon camp in the 2012 season! I'd also like to wish you the best of luck with your new store Recon Paintball!

Signing off, 

The Paintball Wife

Pre-season Interview #6 - Scarborough Hustle

     This interviewee has only been around the sport of paintball since 2005 and his entrance into the league certainly involved a little bit of luck. Matt Gregersen seemed to be at the right place at the right time when he started playing paintball. He and some friends made the trip to Barrie to play some paintball for fun but arrived to find the field was closed for a tryout for a team called Barrie Xmen, a CXBL team. Gregersen says, “This was maybe my 4^th time actually playing paintball, and with my awesome Angel LCD, I got a call back, and again, and made the team.”
     Matt has since played on numerous teams in many different tournaments. You may remember him from his days on Kingston Criminal Factory. Gregersen has moved around a little bit between divisions since his days on Kingston. He played a few seasons of MXL and after taking the season off last year has made the return to CXBL with this year’s Scarborough Hustle. Like many of the CXBL Elite teams, Hustle is rumoured to have some tricks up their sleeve when it comes to rostered players this year. We can certainly expect to see a blend of younger talent and experienced players on their 2012 team. 
     Matt is experienced at playing the anchor positions on the field but this year we can expect to see him moving around a bit. He says, “This year I’m going to be all over the place which I’m really excited for. I feel I’m a very versatile player and that’s something I get to prove this season.” Of his playing style, Matt says, “I’m that guy who never stops running and gunning.” We will have to see if this style provokes the competition in the 2012 CXBL Elite season. While my single female readers may be few, if you are out there, Matt would also like to say, “I’m a 23 year old, non-smoking Leo, who enjoys paintball, snowboarding, and apple pie with cheese.”

Thanks Matt. Best of luck to Scarborough in the 2012 season! And good luck to you Matt, in your hunt for companionship. 

                                                 Photo Credit: Unknown

• What have you been doing as a team during the off-season to prepare for the 2012 CXBL season?

“This off season the Hustle guys and I have been doing the best thing possible -- Practice. We practice at least once a week, usually twice and also try to hang out as much as possible. I'm lucky to be a part of such a tight crew, even though I'm sure everybody will claim that. Were lucky to have multiple field sponsors such as Defcon Paintball, and Camp X Paintball Fields accommodating us, without their help we would be completely lost.”

• What have you been doing as an individual to prepare for the coming season?

"At the end of the 2011 season, I herniated a disc in my back which put me on my butt for a good 4-5months. Getting into shape for the season has been a struggle, but I feel with hard work and my commitment to cut cheeseburgers out of my diet I'll be back and ready in no time!”

• What do you feel is your team’s greatest strength headed into this season?

“I feel Hustle as a whole has grown immensely. After their first year in the CXBL the guys are hungrier than ever, and I feel with combination of young fast players, and our experienced group of guys we will hang with the best of them. Not to mention a few tricks up our sleeves to complement our roster.”

• Which team do you feel will be your greatest competition this season and why?

“Every team this season has a solid roster, and I feel everybody will be a challenge. I think the teams we don't know will be the toughest competition... New teams like Medonte, Daytona, Mirabel, Thunder are all newcomers to the Elite division out East here which is packed heavily with Central conference teams. I'm excited to play a wider range of Canadian teams.”

• Which team do you feel will be the weakest this season and why?

“Those guys on Cowboys are looking pretty frail...”

• Which player on your own team do you most respect as a player and why?

“Oliver Lang, he's the only one who ever answered any of my 15 year old fan mail asking what kind of barrel is his favorite. (It was a JT barrel by the way).”

• Were there any changes this off-season that surprised you? For example, roster changes or league changes.

“The biggest surprise to me was actually the lack of changes to the Elite division in the CXBL. Yes, they merged the three conferences into one... However, there's an abundance of support and sponsorship going into the minor divisions while the Elite division has the same product over and over. Answer? Let's us shoot our sponsors paint. Make us all happy.”

• Is there anything else you would like to add?

“Thank you for the interview! Not enough people become this involved in the sport, but it's your passion that will change the game. A BIG THANK YOU to our sponsors Defcon Paintball, and Camp X Paintball Fields for all their support.”

Thanks Matt for taking the time to answer my questions. Your sense of humour will serve you well in the heat of this competitive season. 

Signing off, 

The Paintball Wife

Enjoy the Holiday!

Hi guys,

I am taking today and tomorrow off from blogging to enjoy the holiday. You can look forward to reading the next pre-season interview on Tuesday!

Have an awesome holiday! Go play some paintball!

Signing off,
The Paintball Wife

Pre-season Interview # 5 - Mirabel Impact

       This Interviewee is a new face around the central CXBL but is no stranger to the sport of paintball. Alex Blackburn has been playing paintball since 2000. He has numerous tournaments under his belt for many different leagues. Blackburn has played in the PSP, NPPL, Millenium, NYPL/NAPL, TOC, and other lesser known tournaments throughout his paintball career.  
       He began his paintball journey with Random Heroes as a CX4 team in the Eastern CXBL. Though the guys had wanted to begin at the MXL level, all of the spots were already filled and in order to get a start with the CXBL, they took the CX4 position with hopes of moving up. Upon winning the title in the CX4 division, Alex and his Random Heroes counterparts made the bump to MXL the following year. They fought hard in the MXL division and finished the season with a solid second place allowing them to make the bump to the CXBL division. 
        Blackburn continued playing with Random Heroes for 2 seasons at the CXBL level before making a roster change to play with Kamikaze. After playing for 1 year under the Kamikaze name, he made another roster change. This means that we will see him playing with the 2012 Mirabel Impact in the new CXBL Elite division. 
        Having so much experience with so many different formats of the paintball game has equipped Alex with a very good understanding of the game. Blackburn says, “growing up playing 7man, I would consider myself more of a methodical/smart player.” While his paintball journey has taught him to keep his head about him in game situations, he assured “I can definitely turn on the aggressiveness when I need to!”
        Those who have seen Alex play know him to excel at the snake position. When asked if we could expect to see him drudging his way down the snake again in the 2012 season, Alex replied, “most likely…however, I’m very confident in my abilities in any position…I’m comfortable playing a back centre, the corners, insert, or front on the Dorito side as well.” Blackburn is also a graphic designer and the part owner of Murdertron clothing brand. You can check out their awesome designer tees, hats, longsleeves, hoodies, shades, and stickers at shop.murdertron.com. You can also find them on twitter, facebook, and instagram. The apparel really does rock and lucky for me, they even sell ladies wear!

   Alex- You are an experienced player with a lot to offer the Mirabel Impact squad. I respect your dedication to the sport and I know that you are a player whom the lower divisions can look up to! We look forward to seeing Mirabel come together on the field as you join the CXBL Elite this season!

 Photo Credit: Unknown

(Let me know if you know the photographer so that I can give them credit)

• What have you been doing as a team during the off-season to prepare for the 2012 CXBL season?

“The obvious... practice almost every weekend as a team. We rotate practice to practice: Some practices we will focus on breakout drills, snap shooting, communication skills, and what I like to call mini-games (group the players into small teams and create some sort of objective: this could be a race to occupy 50 snake bunker, or killing a penalty for a particular amount of time, etc),

The other practices we would work on specific plays, and actually play some full 5 on 5 xball.”

    

• What have you been doing as an individual to prepare for the coming season?

“I make sure to play at least once if not twice a week. I am playing on 3 different teams for 3 different leagues, so I am getting my fair share of paintball. The one thing I’ve been working on personally is my conditioning; at 27 years of age I’m considered an old man in the local paintball scene, and I definitely need to jog and condition myself to keep up with these younger guys.”

• What do you feel is your team’s greatest strength headed into this season?

“This team is very young, some of the players have never played at the CXBL level, but I think our greatest strength is the determination these guys have to make a name for themselves. We also have one of the most respectable coaches to ever come out of the east, Shawn Monk, in our corner.”

• Which team do you feel will be your greatest competition this season and why?

“I think every team will be tough. Everyone’s roster is stacked. The CXBL might not have as many teams in the Elite division as the past, but every team is cutting the fat as well as adding big names.”

• Which team do you feel will be the weakest this season and why?

“I’m not too sure. I think every team has a decent roster, and they will all be hard to compete against.”

• Which player on your own team do you most respect as a player and why?

“As a player I would have to say Marc-Andre, I think he’s one of the best players to ever come out of the east. He knows the game very well, he’s quick and has excellent gun fighting skills.”

• Were there any changes this off-season that surprised you?  For example, roster changes or league changes.

       After Windsor won it last year I expected it to be an arms race for big name pros. The thing I’m most surprised of is not seeing Toronto Rage... I don’t think I even saw their players rostered on new teams. (I’m sure they are focusing on another league, good luck to them).”

•   Is there anything else you would like to add?

“   Just would like to shout out my team sponsors: IMPACT Proshop - Mirabel Paintball - GI SPORTZ - Skorpion Paintball – AK’s Proshop - VFORCE – PBL. As well as my other sponsors  that have/are helping me this season: Exalt - INKA Paintball - Planet Eclipse – Badlands – Hopperz Paintball – Frontline Paintball and just a special shout out for my boys on Ottawa Royalty and the Scrub Life guys!”

Thank you, Alex for taking the time to answer my questions. With your level-head and dedication to the sport, I am sure that this season will be one marked by your hard work and passion. 

As for the Rage guys, I do believe we will see a good chunk of last season's roster playing for Windsor Lockdown this year.  Lockdown has yet to post their roster on www.xball.com. 

Signing off, 

 The Paintball Wife

Pre-season Interview # 4 - Cambridge Raiders

     This interviewee has been around the paintball scene for a whopping 17 years! He is no stranger to the sacrifices that are required to play this sport and has had the opportunity to learn from and play with some of the best players that the central CXBL has bred. Ryan Chantler played recreational paintball for the first time in 1996 and the first organized tournament he played in 1999 was a two man headshot only tournament. While it must have been a frightening start to his tournament career, his enthusiasm for the sport was just beginning.
      Chantler went on to work as an employee for Flagswipe Paintball and was one of the original Express Kids in 2001. Express Kids went on to become one of the dominant teams in the Novice scene for the next few years. In 2004, Ryan thought that he had seen the last of his competitive days when he took a year off from ball to finish college, only playing the occasional tournament for fun. However, in 2005 he was asked by friends to join a tournament team that they had set up- Adrenaline All-stars. After playing with them for two years, he made the return to his paintball roots and played for London Express in the CXBL and TOC open division. Chantler continued playing with Express until 2010 when he decided a change was needed. Last season was a split season for Ryan, beginning the year with Hespeler Hooligans and then making the jump back to CXBL to finish the season with the Cambridge Raiders. 
     Because of Chantler’s long paintball career, he has had the opportunity to play for both dominant and struggling teams. As a result, he is known for his determination and for his ability to mentally prepare for matches. Ryan has had to make sacrifices along the way but in regard to the amount of money he has spent on the sport, he says, “I can always make more money!” and in regard to the many injuries he has suffered he says, “my body will heal!” Chantler’s most difficult sacrifice has been time with his wife and little boy that he knows he can never get back but he acknowledges that their support has allowed him to form bonds with people he may have otherwise never met. 

 

The paintball community is lucky to have you Ryan and your experience is sure to be invaluable to your team. We look forward to seeing you in action with the Cambridge Raiders again this year!

• What has Raiders been doing as a team during the off-season to prepare for the 2012 CXBL season?

     "Cambridge Raiders has continued our grind in the off season practicing bi-weekly at our indoor facility at Flag Raiders in Kitchener. As well as maintaining post practice chicken pad thai meals at Pho-Dau-Bo."

• What have you been doing as an individual to prepare for the coming season?

"I have been hitting the gym, working on improving my eating habits, and playing paintball on our off weekends."

• What do you feel is your team’s greatest strength headed into this season?

   "I feel we are very close unit who can keep a calm head during games and get through whatever challenges paintball puts in front of us."

  

• Which team do you feel will be your greatest competition this season and why?

    "Our greatest competition will be Tremblant Cowboys. They have the most impressive roster.......on paper."

• Which team do you feel will be the weakest this season and why?

    "I don’t like the idea of singling out a specific team on being the "weakest". This is the CXBL and all the teams and players are at this level because they know how to compete. No team can be taken lightly and anyone can beat anyone else."

• Which player on your own team do you most respect as a player and why?

   "Hmmmm........ Zach Burke. He is level-headed, experienced, and still gets grimey in the snake and makes all you kids pay for trying to go head to head with him."

• Were there any changes this off-season that surprised you? For example, roster changes or league changes.

"I was surprised the West division got shut down, and the merger on the CXBL division."

• Is there anything else you would like to add?

     "If you are going to do something.... Do it Right."

 

Ryan-Thanks so much for taking the time to answer my questions. I really appreciate it! You are a veteran player with so much experience in Canadian paintball and I know that will serve the Raiders well.

 Signing off, 

The Paintball Wife

P.S. Please leave comments! If I have no feedback, I have no idea what you guys like and what I can improve on. Thanks for reading! 

GoPro Hero II Sponsorship - What's that all about?

      We are going to take a break from the player profiles and pre-season interviews today in order to address another very exciting change within the CXBL this year. As many of you know, GoPro has decided to become a platinum sponsor of the CXBL, thus changing the way the Elite matches will be filmed this season. In order to get all of the details, I have taken the opportunity to speak with representatives from GoPro, Backline Media, and Outdoor Gear Canada (the Canadian distributor of GoPro products). 
     When asked why GoPro has decided to become a Platinum sponsor, Eric Mayeu, the marketing representative from Outdoor Gear Canada, explained “The CXBL showed they were the best league in Canada to work with GoPro through the quality of their events and media (through Backline Media).” He went on to say, “Since they are the official professional Xball league in Canada, we chose that it would be very good for both parties if they could have a partnership.” The particular sponsorship for the CXBL includes the use of GoPro Hero II cameras. According to Mayeu, “GoPro cameras are used by more professional athletes, sports filmmakers, and core enthusiasts than any other camera in the world. The HD Hero II camera is the most advanced GoPro camera yet: wearable and gear mountable.” 
     The name of the camera itself suggests that it is designed to capture heroic images and Mayeu explained that, “We (the distributor) also believe that Xball goes along with GoPro because when you’re playing Xball at any level, you feel like you’re the HERO. Whether your goal is to capture a great day out with friends or you’re gunning for the cover of a magazine, the GoPro products will help you nail it and look like a HERO!” 
     When GoPro was contacted and asked what makes their cameras different, Dustin (GoPro support) said, “What sets our cameras apart is that it allows a variety of limitless mounting options, while at the same time providing both high quality film and still photos.” Dustin also mentioned that the GoPro Hero II has some interesting qualities like “the 10 photo burst mode (this allows for 10 photos to be taken in one second) and the timelapse mode for every .5 seconds (this sets the camera to take a photo every .5 seconds).” Other features of the GoPro Hero II cameras as stated by Eric Mayeu (OGC) are: “It’s waterproof (can go as far as 60 meters underwater with any of the OEM cases), it comes with most of the accessories you’ll be using, it’s price wise (HD Hero IIs are retailing at $349.99-369.99), and 16 resolution options from 30 FPS to 120 FPS.” 
     These cameras certainly have some exciting features that will allow them to capture all of the action on the field and should have the durability needed to film paintball matches! Mayeu also gave me a sneak peek into what new products we can expect to see this summer! According to Mayeu, GoPro will be coming out with a Wi-Fi BacPac & Remote combo that he says, “will let you control up to 50 cameras with the remote and with the Wi-Fi kit you’ll be able to stream online through a network what the camera is capturing LIVE!”  With this kind of product on the market, I don’t think it will be long before the CXBL is able to make the switch to airing matches live online! 

Thank you Eric and Dustin for your insight into this product! I think I can speak for the entire CXBL community when I say that we cannot wait to see what the GoPro Hero II cameras can do! Thank you for believing in the sport that we love and encouraging our players through your sponsorship. 

  

I also had the opportunity to interview Jim Baker from Backline Media and he was able to give me a great idea of the changes that we can expect to see this season as a result of the GoPro Hero II sponsorship. Read on for some of the exciting things we can look forward to in the 2012 CXBL season. 

 

• If I am not mistaken, Backline used to use an XHA1 camera and an AX10 camera at all of the events. What changes can we expect to see with the switch from these to GoPro Hero II equipment?  How do these cameras compare? What advantages will the switch to GoPro give?

“First of all thanks for the opportunity to talk about some of the changes to the filming of the CXBL.
In the past we have used a Canon XHA1 to capture the games. Using the Canon was always a natural choice for me. I have been using Canon cameras for many, many years filming all kinds of crazy extreme sports from Skateboarding, Wakestocks, Sky Diving even Warp Tours you name it. I grew up with Canon and knew they could easily stand up to the abuse of a paintball match so it was a natural selection.”

“This season we’ll still be using the same Canon as our main close up camera, but we’re excited to be introducing everyone to the GoPro HD Hero II. When we first started searching for cameras to make the dream production come true, it didn't take long to say yes to the GoPro product.  We needed to find a way to maximize the number of cameras we could acquire, while at the same time keep a quality that matched today's best HD cameras. The GoPro HD hero II stood up to the task easily. It's shooting in HD it's recording at 60 fps, and built to take hits, rain and record for hours with a 170 degree lens. They are priced at a point where having multiple cameras could be a reality. Now finally with the addition of these cameras to our roster, we can show the world our sport like never before.”

• The press release from the league stated that "all CXBL Elite games will be filmed entirely using the versatile GoPro Hero II cameras elevating the existing coverage and providing viewers with an even better seat to Canada's premier paintball sporting league." How will these cameras "elevate the existing coverage"?

“That's 100% right; in 2012 we want to come closer to what the dream has always been - and that's full matches online for everyone to enjoy at no cost. Well how do we do that? First we needed a ton of quality cameras and secondly we needed the experience with the players and fans to really evaluate what makes our sport exciting.”

“We took a good look at what was making today`s web casts so special. The PSP and accesspaintball.com are doing ground breaking things with stats and visuals. So we drew on that inspiration, but then asking what can we do in the CXBL that`s unique and our own.  We developed a new format for a show that will showcase the full match like our audience have come to expect, but on a much more intimate level. We`re excited to finally put the drama and emotion captured in the past to full match coverage.  With the support of GoPro we have new ways to showcase the game and the support for exciting things in the following seasons.”

• The press release from the league also stated, "All players have the opportunity to use their own GoPro Hero camera on field during their matches." Is this the first time in CXBL history that players have been allowed to collect their own footage during game situations? Does Backline media intend to lend players from various teams their GoPro cameras as a means of collecting in-the-moment footage?

“It is the first time players will be allowed to record their own footage on the field. It’s an exciting decision by the league to allow it. Backline will be busy servicing all their own equipment and will not be bugging players for footage. The player’s footage is their own and they can do with it as they see fit. I do think having a place where all of this great player created footage can be displayed for everyone to enjoy is a great idea.”

• It is rumoured that the use of GoPro cameras will allow for the viewer to watch complete CXBL Elite matches. Is this true? Will we be able to watch entire matches following the events? Can we still look forward to the CXBL event highlight videos?

“It's true because of the power and durability of the cameras we will be able to creatively place many more cameras on the field than ever before. We will capture the matches from the pits, the sky, the dead boxes, the audience, the snake, maybe even on the referees.  The ideas are endless.  It’s a small logistical nightmare, but in the end we know everyone will be excited by how a match plays out on camera.”

“The highlight videos... For years our viewpoint into the lives of the players has been interviews, and then cut to the action of the match. We have always had a dream to show full matches, but it required time learning the players/culture and most importantly having the right partnerships in place. With years of being with the players and secretly cheering and cringing behind the lens of the camera, we have learned a lot about the heart and passion we all have for this game. We feel that with this new format, moving forward will feel like a natural evolution and the old highlights will not be missed. So much more is now being captured. Never again will that game changing move be missed, that heated smack talk or team blow up. It’s all going to be raw for the world to see.”

• Are there any plans in place for there to be live coverage of CXBL events for viewers at home?

“Let’s take it one step at a time. However, we will say with the power of the GOPro HD Hero II, imagination is the only limit, and the Backline Media team are a very imaginative crew.”

• Is there anything else you can tell me about the switch in equipment and what it will mean for the season ahead?

“I'm more excited about the league and this season than I have ever been before. With the addition of the Elite CXBL the doors have opened wide. Having all the focuses on one field is a dream come true and everyone is in for one hell of a battle this year. I can't wait to see how the season plays out and I expect more competition than ever before. I’m also excited to see more and more quality coverage of the CXBL emerging.”

“Lastly I want to thank all the players and friends I've made over the past 5 years filming the CXBL. It's for the love of the sport and telling our stories that we do this. Feel free to stop by the Backline Media tent at events and leave comments or just talk seasons drama with me, it’s my favorite subject.”

“Thanks Niki for the chance to speak up and keep reporting on the league so the whole world knows what a great thing we have with The CXBL!” --Jim Baker (Backline Media)

Thank you Jim for the interview! I can hardly wait for the season to begin as it is but with these new plans for filming in place, I am looking forward to event 1 even more! I am sure all of the players will be thrilled to be able to re-watch every point after the matches and perhaps teams can even use this footage to better themselves between each event. Jim, I wish you and all of the Backline Media crew my very best as you undertake this new challenge with the help of an amazing new sponsor! 

To those of you who would like to purchase the GoPro Hero II camera for your personal use this season, visit www.buypbl.com

 

**For more information on GoPro products please visit www.gopro.com **

I’d love to hear your comments on the new sponsorship and filming! What do you guys think? 

Signing off,

The Paintball Wife

***Note: I have no affiliation with GoPro, OGC, or Backline Media ***

Pre-season Interview #3 - Vancouver Thunder

     Few players can say that they have started at the bottom of the totem pole and worked their way to the top, but this interviewee can. He has only been playing paintball for the last 9 years but in that time he has worked his way from Young Guns all the way up to the Pro division in NPPL and the CXBL Elite division in Canada. 
     Nate Schroeder played paintball for the first time in 2004 and continued to play recball for about a year. In 2005 he played his first National event with DBS Kidz in the Young Guns division. “Since then”, Nate says, “we (as a team) played every division from Young Guns to D4, D3, D2, D1 and finally Pro in the NPPL.” Like many players, Schroeder started off playing paintball as a hobby until he claims, “a few years ago I realized that it’s really the only thing I’m good at.” Nate says that since he has made that realization, “it’s been my number one priority and the more success I reach in the sport, the more it transfers over to ‘real life’.”  
     In Schroeder’s own words, “Paintball for me is everything. Without the Sport I wouldn’t have met some of the most amazing people I’m proud to call friends and some my family.” While it is clear that Nate’s efforts thus far have certainly payed off and that he has had a lot of significant accomplishments in the sport, he claims “I believe my journey is just beginning.” While Schroeder has made every paintballer’s dream a reality—going Pro in the NPPL, he says, “I’m starting to realize my dream was never to just go pro.  I want to make a name for the team I’ve helped establish and that starts with NAX this year!” 
     Nate’s focus so far has been on the NPPL and while this will only be his second year playing in the CXBL, he now has his eyes set on the CXBL NAX championship.  Schroeder’s team Vancouver Thunder from the late Western CXBL had a taste of NAX last year but came away without the winning title. This year, as part of the new CXBL Elite, they are back with a hunger and I for one will not be surprised to see them competing for the NAX championship again this year. 
     Nate and his Thunder counterparts have also been picked up as part of Vancouver Vendetta and are playing in the Pro division in the NPPL. We can follow them online as they travel to Chicago this weekend for the Chicago Open. Schroeder’s involvement in paintball doesn’t end there however; he also plays D1 with Fuzion in the PSP! If his involvement in all of these different leagues teaches us anything, it is that Nate is a dedicated and passionate player who truly gives his all to the sport. 

Nate – You have my respect for paying your dues and for showing us all that hard work and a positive attitude can pave the road to success in this sport. Congratulations on your many accomplishments thus far. I wish you and your Vancouver Vendetta teammates the best of luck in Chicago this weekend! 

 Photo Credit: 

Unknown (Please let me know if you know the photographer so I can give them credit.)

• What have you been doing as a team during the off-season to prepare for the 2012 CXBL season? 

“To prepare for this season we've made a few minor roster changes and one major change.  We have the luxury of practicing all year round at our indoor facility (www.doodlebugsportz.com) and thanks to Matt at Tsawwwassen (www.tsawwassenpaintball.ca) we were able to acquire a new bunker kit for 2012 so we can start practicing the new layout.”  

•  What have you been doing as an individual to prepare for the coming season?

“Personally, I try to maintain focus even when I'm not at the paintball field.  Visualizing the ring on my finger at the end of this season has given me the motivation I need to get in better shape and stay focused. In addition, watching our final game from last season where Windsor beat us down in the finals gets me pumped.  I'm also trying to play as much paintball as possible because I know our competition is doing the same.  Currently our focus is 7-man because the core group of guys from Thunder were recently picked up by Vancouver Vendetta and right now we're in the midst of making a name for ourselves in the NPPL Pro division.  I'm competing in the PSP with my D1 team Fuzion to stay on top of my xball game.  Although it's all build up to CXBL because last year we were one game away from winning and let it slip.”

•  What do you feel is your team’s greatest strength headed into this season?

 “We're a family.  All of us have been playing together since we started so we know each other’s tendencies and habits.  We also compete together in other leagues so we're constantly learning how to adjust to different formats/teams, which is something we'll need to master before taking the Championship this year.  As far as our roster goes we have all the components of a Championship team, including the support of our owner, Matt Jantzi.”

• Which team do you feel will be your greatest competition this season and why?

“Definitely Cowboys. Last year Drew Templeton, Nick Slowiak, and Sam Monville ran a clinic both times we met them at NAX.  In my opinion those guys are some of the best in the world and they're only getting better.  It's gonna take a lot for us to get to where we need to be to beat those guys but I have confidence in my teams drive.”

• Which team do you feel will be the weakest this season and why?

“Coming from the Western Division we haven't established a rapport with most of the Elite teams.  I'd say whichever teams spends most of their time in the box is going to be the weakest.”

• Which player on your own team do you most respect as a player and why?

 “That would be our newest addition Dave Bains.  He's one of our good friends who is coincidentally the greatest back player in the world.  We're going to use him as not only a leader on the field but also off.  Our team has a lot to learn and Dave is gonna speed that process up to get us to where we need to be by the end of the season.”

• Were there any changes this off-season that surprised you? For example, roster changes or league changes.

 “Yeah, seeing the Western Division drop was a heart-breaker.  We were really bummed that there was the possibility we couldn't compete in the Elite Division because it filled up so fast.  Luckily for us another team dropped so we could get a spot last minute.”

•  Is there anything else you would like to add? 

 “Yeah, I'd like to thank you Niki for taking the time to put this blog together and including player's perspective.  You don't see it very often and I think that's what the sport needs; being such a small community it's important we support each other so the sport can grow and get the global recognition it deserves.”

Thank you, Nate! You have had quite the journey and it has clearly been an awesome ride so far! I am sure your team will be a top contender in this year’s CXBL Elite division!