Draft Assessment: Domenick

In this particularly young cast, Domenick may have a difficult time fitting in at the ripe old age of 38 (such is the harsh reality of ageism on Survivor, especially this season). However, Domenick could use his age to his advantage, since experience is often valued on predominantly younger tribes. For example, in the first season of Survivor, Survivor: Borneo, Gretchen Cordy, who was also 38 at the time, was respected by her younger tribemates and was even considered the leader of the tribe until the merge. Similarly, Boston Rob Mariano, who was 34 when he played Survivor: Redemption Island, was able to lead a tribe of mostly twenty-somethings and ended up winning that season. Domenick wisely compares himself to Boston Rob, and there are more than a few similarities: they both play poker, they both have kids, and they both work in construction. He also mentioned that he wants to play like Cirie Fields, which shows that he sees the need for subtle social strategy.

Bottom line: If Domenick can keep his head down, work hard, and become a silent leader in his tribe, he could go far and possibly even win. However, if he tries to use his age and experience to boss his tribemates around, then his younger tribemates could turn on him early.