When was Time Machine formed? Who made up the original members?

Time Machine was formed in 2008. The original members were Drew Stutz, Vince Haas, Alex Zander, Mike Dewanz, myself and David Deerhag.  Ryan Stowe was also on the roster.

How did you get these group of guys together?

Mike and Vince are the owners of Northside Sports, and have been in the sport for a long time, and associated with several teams going back to the old days of 10 man.  They wanted to get back into playing, Drew had already proven himself as a solid player, the new kids, Alex, Ryan and David were all looking to join a team.   The personalities fit together well, and after a short practice we pulled things together and formed the team.

How did you come up with the name?

It just came to me one day. I wanted a name that would be able to withstand the changing times, and reflect old and new players.

What events did the team play at the time?

We started out playing the MWPPA series.  Then we quickly moved into the PSP series in Chicago 2008.

How has Time Machine changed as a team/organization over the years?

We have become more focused and disciplined as individual players and as a team.   Our intent is to concentrate ourselves on the National events.

What is it about national events that makes the team focus on them over local & regional events?

We are very fortunate to have a great local and regional tournament series.   All of our guys have played them at one time or another, they are well organized, fun events.   National events are a tremendous learning experience for players, coaches and team owners.   Watch the Russians for example.   They have a coach sitting in the stands charting breakouts and game plans.  That knowledge is put to use in their game plans, just one example of what you can gain for knowledge at a national event.   Another reason is the venues, while things have changed, the excitement of playing on Huntington Beach, or the strip in Las Vegas is still out there for everyone to enjoy.

What are some major accomplishments of the Time Machine?

I think last season at World Cup where we were “adopted” by the Ironmen.   Having Nicky Cuba, Bobby French, Mike Paxson in your pits with Ironmen team guns during our matches was a huge moral boost, and gave our team respect that can’t be bought at any price.    After that, two of our players were asked to pit for the Ironmen during their match with the Russians.  Priceless.

I bet that was exciting for the players, how did you arrange that one?

We were recommended by other team owners and coaches.   It really helped that Dan has been practicing with the Ironmen for a couple of years.   He was our sideline coach, and the Ironmens sideline coach that weekend.

What tournament series do Time Machine currently play? What made you choose these events?

We are making the transition to NPPL 7 man.   With so many close friends and family playing the Super 7, it made sense that we jump into that venue.

What division does the team compete at?

We will be playing Division 3 to start out the season.

What is the average age of the players on the team?

The average age right now is 17 years old, we have a few older, more experienced players to balance out the mix nicely.    I do not play with the team at national events.  I can help the team more from the sidelines and meeting the organizations needs.

So your team is reletively young, how will you over come issues with money & time away from school?

Smart parents understand that being part of a team is important to their children at any age.   They have always been our biggest supporters, once the economic depression starts a recovery, I’m sure we will see a renewed interest in participation.    Right now, I really understand how difficult it is to make a financial committment to the sport, when most people are concerned about losing their jobs.

What would you say is an area that the team excels at?

I coach the team in three areas, Attitude, Effort and Discipline.   I am very proud of our players for maintaing the high standards we have set for them.    You can win a lot of matches with those attributes.

Are there any weaknesses that you have or are trying to over come?

That’s a really good question.   The economy has hit us hard this season. When I voted for a change, I wasn’t expecting this. Other than economic, our weakness is also our biggest strength. With a young team, you have unlimited potential, and limited experience. Balancing the two is my job.

Who are some of your sponsors, and what do they do for you?

I am very proud to announce a new sponsor. Vintage Paintball Park. Vintage will fit in perfectly with our program. We are a family friendly, parent and player sponsored team. There are no mandatory guns or gear you must purchase, or other work you must perform to play for the team. The addition of Vintage will give our players the opportunity to draw upon years of professional players experince while practicing at the newest facility in the midwest.

Where does the team typically practice & play?

I always try to get the team in with a pro team practice.  One good practice with experienced and successful players is worth a month of grinding it out with your team mates.    Our next practice is once again out of town.  Chicago at CPX sports park. Next season we will  be at Vintage Paintball Park every weekend.

What does it take to setup these practices for the team, is it difficult to get playing time with/against higher ranked teams?

The biggest issue we face is transportation.  Our young players don’t have cars or the means to get to practice.  I help out as much as possible, but you can only get so many players and gear into a toyota.    Getting playing time, scheduling a practice usually isn’t a problem.  The team has been around long enough, people recognize the name.  We have gotten a tremendous amount of help from pro players along the way.

How often are the players expected to practice?

We don’t have mandatory practices.   I expect every player to work hard and be prepared everytime they come to the field.   Before a national event, I ask that every player show up for two practices before the event.

What does the future hold for Time Machine?

We are going to follow Indianapolis Mutiny on the pro tour, learn as much as we can, and grow into better players and representatives of the sport.

Is there anything else about the team that you’d like to touch on?

Yes!  Definitely, Time Machine will be holding open tryouts in the spring at Vintage Paintball Park.  We are looking for a couple of players who have the potential, the attitude, effort, discipline and time to play national events.