Comox Valley Raiders youth football teams snapped into action on the weekend.
On Sunday, Sept. 1 the Raiders Bantam (age 14 and 15) and Midget (16, 17, 18) teams travelled to Nanaimo for their first action of the year for a doubleheader against the more experienced Nanaimo Redmen.
In the first game the Raiders' Bantam defence gave up three touchdowns in a span of four minutes. One touchdown came with four minutes left in the second quarter, one with 45 seconds on the clock and then an interception for a touchdown with 33 seconds remaining till the half.
Other than this lapse the Raider defence was generally able to contain the Redmen offence. The Comox Valley offence put together a few good series but were unable to score. The Raiders have their home opener this Sunday as they host the Victoria Spartans in a 1:30 p.m. start at Bill Moore Memorial Park.
In the second game Sept. 1 the Raiders Midgets' story was pretty much the same, as their defence and offence both had their moments but were unable to string plays together required to sustain or stop drives
The Raiders displayed some terrific individual efforts but the experience and chemistry of the team is not quite there yet. The Midget Raiders get a couple of weeks to practice as they have a bye this week. Both teams have the athletic talent and with more practice time and games for experience it will be interesting to follow their achievements.
In other news, the 2013 Comox Valley Raiders Fundamental Football Camp for boys and girls ages six to nine (Aug. 26-30) was a big hit with the kids.
PeeWee coaches Damon Gaudet and Bart Zowtuck put together and implemented this program of fun skills and drills while introducing the elements of football.
"As this was such a successful first year for the Fundamental Camp we will definitely be considering running it next year," a Raiders' spokesperson said. "Thank you to all the kids, coaches and helpers who participated."
QUICK KICKS Two Raider teams are in Campbell River this Sunday with the PeeWees in action at 11 a.m. and the Junior Bantams at 1 p.m. … registration is still open for Fall Tackle Football Programs at the Lewis Centre, 250-338-5371 … PeeWee ages 9-11, $150; Junior Bantam ages 12-13, $200; Bantam ages 14-15, $300; Midget ages 16-18, $350 … registration includes gear rental …
– Comox Valley Raiders Youth Football