A Paintball Patton: Getting BuRied with AVALANCHE Jim Rost
Jim Rost, winnin' things
If you play scenarios, you know that a good General can make or break a team. Well, Jim Rost, aka Avalanche of Rogue Patriots, has proven himself to be a great General.
I had the pleasure of serving as a Commander under Jim for 2 years at Fulda Gap as well as at smaller Scenario events, and can tell you that he's one of the best Commanding Officers that I've ever played under in around 20 years of playing paintball. Take a minute to get to know him.
How long have you been playing paintball? How did you get into the sport?
I’ve been playing for 19 years now. I can’t believe it’s been that long! A friend of mine from Elementary School invited me to my first game and loaned me a Brass Eagle Stingray way back in the day. I’ve been hooked ever since.
What team are you playing with now, and where are you all based out of? What kinds of games do you all play, and how would you describe yourself as a player?
I’m the Captain of Rogue Patriots Paintball. We are a scenario team originating out of Northern Virginia but currently have players ranging from Florida to Washington State. The majority of our members are in the Mid-Atlantic region.
As a player… how do I answer that? The past few years I’ve found myself in various command roles but I do get out on the field pretty regularly. In that sense, I’m usually on the opponent’s flank trying to find a way to get up close and personal. I can be an aggressive player and like to jump into fights that folks think can’t be won.
How did you get into scenarios? When did you first start playing them?
It was probably 1998 or 1999 when I played my first scenario game, though, in those days, I was more of a speedball player. I got heavy into scenario ball in 2013 when I got hooked up with Alpha Omega Paintball and started traveling the East Coast for big games. Since then I helped found Rogue Patriots, Magfed NOVA, and have been active and a state commander in Woodsball Alliance.
How did you get into command positions in scenarios? Why did you decide to take on being a General?
My first command spot was at Pasadena Paintball Park in Carbide MD. I kind of fell into it. They needed someone to lead the Blue District at a game, Death Clock and asked me to take it.
My first step into major command roles was at Platoon Leader 2016. I started that game as a team leader, but as the game evolved and peoples strengths became apparent, was appointed squad leader and eventually the acting 1st SGT for the Ranger element. That game led to my first Fulda command role and subsequent promotions within the Fulda Gap NATO ranks.
I had the pleasure of serving as a Commander under Jim for 2 years at Fulda Gap as well as at smaller Scenario events, and can tell you that he's one of the best Commanding Officers that I've ever played under in around 20 years of playing paintball. Take a minute to get to know him.
How long have you been playing paintball? How did you get into the sport?
I’ve been playing for 19 years now. I can’t believe it’s been that long! A friend of mine from Elementary School invited me to my first game and loaned me a Brass Eagle Stingray way back in the day. I’ve been hooked ever since.
What team are you playing with now, and where are you all based out of? What kinds of games do you all play, and how would you describe yourself as a player?
I’m the Captain of Rogue Patriots Paintball. We are a scenario team originating out of Northern Virginia but currently have players ranging from Florida to Washington State. The majority of our members are in the Mid-Atlantic region.
As a player… how do I answer that? The past few years I’ve found myself in various command roles but I do get out on the field pretty regularly. In that sense, I’m usually on the opponent’s flank trying to find a way to get up close and personal. I can be an aggressive player and like to jump into fights that folks think can’t be won.
How did you get into scenarios? When did you first start playing them?
It was probably 1998 or 1999 when I played my first scenario game, though, in those days, I was more of a speedball player. I got heavy into scenario ball in 2013 when I got hooked up with Alpha Omega Paintball and started traveling the East Coast for big games. Since then I helped found Rogue Patriots, Magfed NOVA, and have been active and a state commander in Woodsball Alliance.
How did you get into command positions in scenarios? Why did you decide to take on being a General?
My first command spot was at Pasadena Paintball Park in Carbide MD. I kind of fell into it. They needed someone to lead the Blue District at a game, Death Clock and asked me to take it.
My first step into major command roles was at Platoon Leader 2016. I started that game as a team leader, but as the game evolved and peoples strengths became apparent, was appointed squad leader and eventually the acting 1st SGT for the Ranger element. That game led to my first Fulda command role and subsequent promotions within the Fulda Gap NATO ranks.
Jim Rost with Rogue Patriots
There are different kinds of commanding officers, those who lead out on the field and those that prefer to gather intel from their commanders in the field and direct from a base. Which do you prefer to do? How would you describe your command style? How does being a General for a game like Fulda differ from other scenarios?
I PREFER to command from the field. It really depends though. I do whatever effects the game in my favor the most. As far as command style goes, I like to be organized and have found that exhibiting a strong presence goes a long way. On the field, I tend to get right up front and lead the charge.
That said, in some games, it makes more sense to stay back and play the tactician. 2019 was my first year as a General at Fulda and I’ve been in the NATO command structure for several years. The biggest difference is the size of the game. Organization and trust of subordinate commanders are key in a game this big.
I PREFER to command from the field. It really depends though. I do whatever effects the game in my favor the most. As far as command style goes, I like to be organized and have found that exhibiting a strong presence goes a long way. On the field, I tend to get right up front and lead the charge.
That said, in some games, it makes more sense to stay back and play the tactician. 2019 was my first year as a General at Fulda and I’ve been in the NATO command structure for several years. The biggest difference is the size of the game. Organization and trust of subordinate commanders are key in a game this big.
Getting ready
What do you think makes you a good General? What would you say your strengths are, and how do you help the team as a whole?
Haha! I’m good at yelling? No, in all reality, the reason I have a good track record as a commander is that I surround myself with good people. That’s my biggest strength. I have good people in the right places and let them do their thing.
While I can be a bit of a control freak sometimes, I know when it’s time to step back and trust other people to make a judgment call. I just redirect forces where they’re needed and concern myself with the overarching tactics. At big game’s like Fulda, you can’t affect the play of any individual player. That’s why I’ve made sure to select people I trust to do just that for me.
How much do you have to put into the pre-game efforts? Learning the field, talking to people who have played it previously, or recruiting teams? Do you find that you have a network of teams that you like to work with?
That's another one that depends on the game. Fulda is a year long commitment, fortunately I know the field very well so I can focus on recruiting and the politics that go into it all. Unfortunately that's my personal weak point, I hate the politics involved. There are several teams I know I can count on, shout out to you guys at Defiance, Capital Offense, Task Force Legion, Head Hunterz, Venom, Project M80, 13th Legionnaires, and all the others who have supported me in games in the past.
Do you have an XO or second that you consistently like to work with? How does he or she compliment you?
Derrick Balog, he's actually only been my XO once, Fulda 19, but I've been his subordinate a few times. I've commanded games he's produced and he's commanded games that I've produced. We have very different and complimentary skill sets. He's also quick to grab me and say "look, that makes tactical sense, but the points are here."
What do you look for indirect reports/commanders during games? What are you hoping that they can bring to the table?
Keep it quick and concise. Get to the point and, please, don’t hotkey your mic. Field commanders have a lot going on and I want to do everything I can to get them the support they need. That said, I’ve been in a TOC at Fulda and there is a lot going on there too. If you want me to get your support, you need to tell me what you need as efficiently as possible. I don’t need a dissertation.
I need to know who you are, where you are, and what you need. I’ll solve your problem as quickly as available assets allow.
Haha! I’m good at yelling? No, in all reality, the reason I have a good track record as a commander is that I surround myself with good people. That’s my biggest strength. I have good people in the right places and let them do their thing.
While I can be a bit of a control freak sometimes, I know when it’s time to step back and trust other people to make a judgment call. I just redirect forces where they’re needed and concern myself with the overarching tactics. At big game’s like Fulda, you can’t affect the play of any individual player. That’s why I’ve made sure to select people I trust to do just that for me.
How much do you have to put into the pre-game efforts? Learning the field, talking to people who have played it previously, or recruiting teams? Do you find that you have a network of teams that you like to work with?
That's another one that depends on the game. Fulda is a year long commitment, fortunately I know the field very well so I can focus on recruiting and the politics that go into it all. Unfortunately that's my personal weak point, I hate the politics involved. There are several teams I know I can count on, shout out to you guys at Defiance, Capital Offense, Task Force Legion, Head Hunterz, Venom, Project M80, 13th Legionnaires, and all the others who have supported me in games in the past.
Do you have an XO or second that you consistently like to work with? How does he or she compliment you?
Derrick Balog, he's actually only been my XO once, Fulda 19, but I've been his subordinate a few times. I've commanded games he's produced and he's commanded games that I've produced. We have very different and complimentary skill sets. He's also quick to grab me and say "look, that makes tactical sense, but the points are here."
What do you look for indirect reports/commanders during games? What are you hoping that they can bring to the table?
Keep it quick and concise. Get to the point and, please, don’t hotkey your mic. Field commanders have a lot going on and I want to do everything I can to get them the support they need. That said, I’ve been in a TOC at Fulda and there is a lot going on there too. If you want me to get your support, you need to tell me what you need as efficiently as possible. I don’t need a dissertation.
I need to know who you are, where you are, and what you need. I’ll solve your problem as quickly as available assets allow.
Leading by Example
What have been your favorite events to command? Why?
Platoon Leader, hands down. I've commanded games large and small, and NOTHING has proven to be as physically and mentally challenging as Platoon Leader. The absolute depth of detail that was put into that game, especially the final 2 years in which I was the Task Force CO, was the epitemy of scenario paintball. Its exactly what I think magfed should be. From the detailed characters you interact with and who's stories you have to learn to be successful, to the sleep deprivation and hunger. That game truly tested players and brought out the best and worst in players (far more best than worst).
How has technology impacted what you can do as a commander? How have you been able to bring it into what you do?
Really depends on the game. Rogue Patriots is well known for our comms. That's what makes us effective. We always know who is where and when. As a commander, having a solid comes guy is priority one. Fortunately Paul "Popeye" Floyd, is one of the absolute best in the game and he's on my team. We've implemented other things varying from surveillance, perimeter defense, intelligence and counter intelligence. I don't want to give away my secrets but everyone knows that I use comms and drones to great effect. Beyond that, maybe ill write a memoir or something when I retire from the game!
What advice do you have for players coming to aevent like Fulda Gap for the first time?
Hydrate, make sure you have a solid breakfast each day, and most importantly… STAY ON THE FIELD. We play hard during the game and play hard in the campsites at night. Do you’re best to stay with your unit.
If you are tired and need a break, find a bunker on the front line and post up. You don’t have to walk off the field to catch your breath. You can hang out at a bunker and take shots at any opposing players that come into your field of fire. That’s the best of both worlds, one minute you and a brother or sister in paint are hanging out shooting the bull, the next you’re both painting faces and contributing to the game.
Platoon Leader, hands down. I've commanded games large and small, and NOTHING has proven to be as physically and mentally challenging as Platoon Leader. The absolute depth of detail that was put into that game, especially the final 2 years in which I was the Task Force CO, was the epitemy of scenario paintball. Its exactly what I think magfed should be. From the detailed characters you interact with and who's stories you have to learn to be successful, to the sleep deprivation and hunger. That game truly tested players and brought out the best and worst in players (far more best than worst).
How has technology impacted what you can do as a commander? How have you been able to bring it into what you do?
Really depends on the game. Rogue Patriots is well known for our comms. That's what makes us effective. We always know who is where and when. As a commander, having a solid comes guy is priority one. Fortunately Paul "Popeye" Floyd, is one of the absolute best in the game and he's on my team. We've implemented other things varying from surveillance, perimeter defense, intelligence and counter intelligence. I don't want to give away my secrets but everyone knows that I use comms and drones to great effect. Beyond that, maybe ill write a memoir or something when I retire from the game!
What advice do you have for players coming to aevent like Fulda Gap for the first time?
Hydrate, make sure you have a solid breakfast each day, and most importantly… STAY ON THE FIELD. We play hard during the game and play hard in the campsites at night. Do you’re best to stay with your unit.
If you are tired and need a break, find a bunker on the front line and post up. You don’t have to walk off the field to catch your breath. You can hang out at a bunker and take shots at any opposing players that come into your field of fire. That’s the best of both worlds, one minute you and a brother or sister in paint are hanging out shooting the bull, the next you’re both painting faces and contributing to the game.
In Good Hands
If you could go back and give a younger you advice on commanding your teams, what would you tell yourself?
Hahaha, a good friend of mine told me once before my first major command (Fulda 16, 3/22 Mech), that its like herding kittens and boy was he right. You can have the most sound tactics, be able to adjust effectively on the fly to whatever is happening on the field, and fight with the best of them. If your players aren't there though, you're done for. Herd the kittens.
How do you view other commanders since you have Quarterbacked the Scenario Super Bowl (General of Fulda Gap)? Do you find yourself mentally judging what is being done, or are you able to just play without thinking about it?
I try not to judge other commanders too much. I've played with and against some of the best and worst commanders in the game. We all have our own style and skill sets. If they ask me to help I usually do, otherwise I prefer to just get out with my team and play.
Hahaha, a good friend of mine told me once before my first major command (Fulda 16, 3/22 Mech), that its like herding kittens and boy was he right. You can have the most sound tactics, be able to adjust effectively on the fly to whatever is happening on the field, and fight with the best of them. If your players aren't there though, you're done for. Herd the kittens.
How do you view other commanders since you have Quarterbacked the Scenario Super Bowl (General of Fulda Gap)? Do you find yourself mentally judging what is being done, or are you able to just play without thinking about it?
I try not to judge other commanders too much. I've played with and against some of the best and worst commanders in the game. We all have our own style and skill sets. If they ask me to help I usually do, otherwise I prefer to just get out with my team and play.
Heavy is the head that wears the crown
What other commanders do you like playing with? Commanding against? Why?
Oh, there's so many great ones. Mamba, Archangel Mikel, Eric Engler, Joe Perez, Eric Bryant, John Wilson (though he doesn't command anymore) and Rob "Firefly" Rivera. All these guys come to mind immediately. I have played with and against all of them and have much respect for them all. The why is simple, they all put the game first and are looking to ensure everyone has fun and is safe. We all want to win, but these guys put the game and honor over glory. They're in it for the game, not the spotlight.
Is there anyone that you really respect as a Scenario commander or general that you would really recommend people try to play with? Why? Any teams that you look forward to playing with or against? Teams that you like playing against as a challenge?
I mean, any of the guys I listed before are awesome leaders in our sport. I'd recommend anyone play for or against them, guaranteed good times on either side. Same for the teams i listed earlier. Not to drone on but I find myself coming back to the same people and groups time after time, theres a reason for that. As far as playing against, Venom and 13th Legionnaires, they have a very aggressive and determined play style and are very good at controlling real estate. I always find it a challenge to find a way to break their lines and they've broken mine many times.
Do you have a favorite story from commanding that highlights one of your favorite events? A favorite win that you’re proud of?
Oh theres so many but the one story that seems to get told the most is from Platoon Leader 18. We knew we were nearing the end of the exercise and hadn't gotten a shot at our highest priority target so we started planning a raid on Sim (Sim City at Command Decisions) based on intel from some scouts we had out that put her there. As we were deploying players to conduct this raid game control hit me on the radio and told us to hit Sim because our target was there. I looked at Brooks Schultz, my Sgt Maj for the game, and we both laughed. We knew where she was long before they told us. It helped that we also had a player infiltrate the ranks of the role players and opfor and was feeding us solid intel for the past 20 hours or so, haha.
So we hit the field, set up a base of fire and myself and 2 other players snuck around the back side of Sim, 2 flash bangs and a bunch of eliminated opposing players later we secured our target. We extracted her, blah blah blah. At the end, the best part of it was receiving a compliment from Andrew Ferguson about how textbook perfect our raid was and that the game was set up for us to never even reach her, much less get her, get her out and eliminate most of the opposing force before they finally stopped us. That was a great day, when intel, planning, and execution all come together.
Oh, there's so many great ones. Mamba, Archangel Mikel, Eric Engler, Joe Perez, Eric Bryant, John Wilson (though he doesn't command anymore) and Rob "Firefly" Rivera. All these guys come to mind immediately. I have played with and against all of them and have much respect for them all. The why is simple, they all put the game first and are looking to ensure everyone has fun and is safe. We all want to win, but these guys put the game and honor over glory. They're in it for the game, not the spotlight.
Is there anyone that you really respect as a Scenario commander or general that you would really recommend people try to play with? Why? Any teams that you look forward to playing with or against? Teams that you like playing against as a challenge?
I mean, any of the guys I listed before are awesome leaders in our sport. I'd recommend anyone play for or against them, guaranteed good times on either side. Same for the teams i listed earlier. Not to drone on but I find myself coming back to the same people and groups time after time, theres a reason for that. As far as playing against, Venom and 13th Legionnaires, they have a very aggressive and determined play style and are very good at controlling real estate. I always find it a challenge to find a way to break their lines and they've broken mine many times.
Do you have a favorite story from commanding that highlights one of your favorite events? A favorite win that you’re proud of?
Oh theres so many but the one story that seems to get told the most is from Platoon Leader 18. We knew we were nearing the end of the exercise and hadn't gotten a shot at our highest priority target so we started planning a raid on Sim (Sim City at Command Decisions) based on intel from some scouts we had out that put her there. As we were deploying players to conduct this raid game control hit me on the radio and told us to hit Sim because our target was there. I looked at Brooks Schultz, my Sgt Maj for the game, and we both laughed. We knew where she was long before they told us. It helped that we also had a player infiltrate the ranks of the role players and opfor and was feeding us solid intel for the past 20 hours or so, haha.
So we hit the field, set up a base of fire and myself and 2 other players snuck around the back side of Sim, 2 flash bangs and a bunch of eliminated opposing players later we secured our target. We extracted her, blah blah blah. At the end, the best part of it was receiving a compliment from Andrew Ferguson about how textbook perfect our raid was and that the game was set up for us to never even reach her, much less get her, get her out and eliminate most of the opposing force before they finally stopped us. That was a great day, when intel, planning, and execution all come together.
Hunting for someone to shoot in the face
Are there any newer commanders out there that you’ve played with that you think should get a shot at bigger events? Guys that you’d want to highlight?
I wouldn't necessarily say he's new but he's definitely not an OG like Mamba or Engler. Eric Bryant of Head Hunterz. Ive played with him several times and for him a few. He's a solid commander and an all around fun guy to be around. Win or lose, he and his team play hard and keep it about fun as well as winning.
I wouldn't necessarily say he's new but he's definitely not an OG like Mamba or Engler. Eric Bryant of Head Hunterz. Ive played with him several times and for him a few. He's a solid commander and an all around fun guy to be around. Win or lose, he and his team play hard and keep it about fun as well as winning.
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