Lakewood Croquet Club

Welcome to The Hot Seat, the latest feature of the Lakewood Croquet Club website. Each month The Hot Seat will feature an in-depth, one on one interview with a LCC competitor.

This initial edition of The Hot Seat turns the spotlight on Jeff Gepner. Gepner, currently one-half of Double X with Andrew Cooper, is the defending Champions Cup winner and the number one seed for this year’s Cup event.

What do you think about ethics in today’s croquet?

I should be the posterchild for ethics. I am the example that certain other Club members should be observing and learning from. There’s a lot of nasty, dirty scheming going on in the LCC, but it’s obvious that none of it revolves around me. That I can assure you.

After forming Double X with Andrew Cooper, you stated in public that you will help him to win the Cup this year. Why give up a chance to win back to back Champions Cup titles and truly make history?

I feel like sharing the wealth. I have dominated this sport for the past five years, and I feel that it’s time to let someone else’s career blossom. I consider this my gift to Andy. He deserves a shot at the glory that I’m already so accustomed to.

Can you trust Cooper?

To the fullest extent. I have no doubt in trust. If Andy does it, he must retire. That’s in the contract that we signed with one another when we formed Double X.

Tell us a little bit about your typical training program?

Hahahaha… sitting on my ass, picking my butt, stuffing my face and watching TV. Not necessarily in that order. It’s a myth that you must be in top shape to play croquet. You absolutely do not need to be in shape, and I’m a perfect example of that.

How do you feel about President Johnston?

Kniving. Insecure. Jealous of my raw talent. I didn’t have any problems with Johnston until he took over as President of the LCC. I do have a problem with other members plotting against me, in order to keep me from what I deserve, which is my “title.”

What is it about Jeff Gepner that is most misunderstood?

I am not a tyrant. I’m just trying to go out on the croquet court everyday and have fun. I have no intentions of destroying other players or harming our Club. I’m only looking out for the best interests of myself and those around me. If someone happens to get in the way and interfere with those interests, then I’m got to take action. Otherwise, it’s all good..