Racine, WI- Three members of the Racine Raiders organization, as well as the team’s Website, were recognized as the best by the North American Football League (NAFL).

Head coach John Mamerow was named the Northern Conference Head Coach of the Year. Mamerow, in his second year at the helm, led the Raiders to a 12-3 record. The team won the Great Lakes Region title and made it to the Northern Conference championship game, losing to the eventual NAFL Champions, the St. Paul Pioneers.

“John Mamerow put forth a very good coaching effort in 2009 for the Racine Raiders,” says NAFL GM Dave Kmiecik. “He guided his team to a 6-0 start and the Raiders finished strong at 8-2, knocking off the defending NAFL Champion Indianapolis Tornados in the playoffs.”

Kmiecik adds, “It was John’s leadership that kept the Raiders focused on playing hard and trying to finish strong during the postseason.”

Wide receiver Charles Owens was named the Northern Conference Ironman of the Year. Owens had a combined 987 yards on the season and five touchdowns. He led the NAFL in punt return yards and punt return touchdowns.

“It’s a blessing and honor to be given the award in such a great league that’s filled with a variety of great, talented athletes,” said the electrifying Owens.

Don Wadewitz was named the Public Relations and Media Relations Person of the Year. Wadewitz spearheaded the publication of the 2009 yearbook, maintained the team Website, and organized social media efforts on Facebook and Twitter, as well as distributed regular press releases.

“Don Wadewitz has been one of the most consistent public relations and media relations persons in the NAFL in recent years,” says Kmiecik. ” He always does a great job promoting the Racine Raiders and the NAFL, and 2009 was no different. His press releases are thorough and the content is well-composed.”

The Raiders’ Website was also recognized along with 16 other NAFL team Websites as the Best NAFL Team Websites.

A complete list of the award recipients can be found on the NAFL Website.

For more information about the Racine Raiders, please visit http://www.racineraiders.com.

Posted @ 6:00 a.m.

St. Paul, MN – The Racine Raiders 2009 season came to a screeching halt Saturday night in St. Paul, Minn., as they fell to the Pioneers 39-17.

The Raiders took a 2-0 lead midway through the first quarter on a holding penalty in the end zone against St. Paul.

The Raiders offense got on the board two minutes into the second quarter on a three-yard touchdown run by J.R. Taylor. The Tim Merchut extra point was good and Racine led 9-0.

Pioneers running back Brian Holmes cut the lead to 9-7 on a one-yard touchdown plunge with 8:12 to play in the first half. The Raiders would go into halftime with the 9-7 lead.

The Raiders came out in the second half without the services of starting quarterback Ron Ricciardi and returner Charles Owens. Both suffered leg injuries in the first half.

Pioneers cornerback Josh Hollie picked off backup quarterback Brent Ferdinand’s first pass of the second half, returning it 47 yards for a touchdown and giving the Pioneers a 14-9 lead. St. Paul would never look back.

Pioneers quarterback Nate Harrington hit wide receiver Joseph Mapson on an 18-yard touchdown pass. The extra point was good and St. Paul led 21-9 with 10:39 to play in the third quarter.

Harrington connected with Mapson again four minutes later on a 57-yard touchdown pass. The extra point was good and the Pioneers led 28-9.

The Raiders couldn’t respond until the middle of the fourth quarter when Ferdinand hit wide receiver Justin Miles on a slant pass. Miles took the pass 15 yards into the end zone. Taylor ran in the two-point conversion and Racine cut the Pioneers lead to 28-17.

The Pioneers would add a field goal to increase their lead to 31-17. On the ensuing drive, with under a minute on the clock, the Raiders drove to the Pioneers ten-yard line. Ferdinand tried to hit wide receiver Dorian Palmer in the front corner of the end zone but the jump ball was intercepted by Monte Bailey who returned it 103 yards, a Pioneers record, for a touchdown. The Pioneers converted a two-point opportunity to win the Northern Conference Championship, 39-17.

While the Raiders season is over, the Pioneers will play the Bellingham (Wash.) Bulldogs who were 27-20 winners over the Southern Oregon Renegades.

For more information about the Racine Raiders, please visit http://www.racineraiders.com.

Posted @ 7:08 p.m.

Racine, WI – The Racine Raiders closed out the home part of their season with a 32-0 victory over the Traverse City Wolves in the third round of the North American Football League (NAFL) playoffs. The Raiders advance to the Northern Conference championship against the St. Paul Pioneers in St. Paul, Minn., next Saturday.

The game was played on an extremely muddy field that was chewed up the night before by a high school game. The Raiders scored the first points of the game when fullback Adam Chorazy pounded the ball into the end zone from one-yard out with ten minutes remaining in the first quarter.

With 12:17 left in the second quarter, a Tim Merchut field goat attempt sailed wide left. A minute later Raiders cornerback Donald Woodard intercepted a Wolves pass and returned it 25 yards for a touchdown. Eric Feest had trouble with the hold on the extra point attempt, but completed a lob pass to Steve Kleist for two points, giving the Raiders a 15-0 lead.

The Raiders would strike again late in the second quarter on a six-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Ron Ricciardi to wide receiver Curtis “Flash” Gordon.

Traverse City started the second half with an onside kick that they were able to recover but they were unable to gain any positive yardage. The Wolves didn’t get a first down in the game until nearly 42 minutes into the game.

The Raiders got on the scoreboard for the final time on a two-yard run by Reggie Johnson with 9:26 left in the game, giving Racine a 29-0 lead. Merchut would add a 32-yard field goal to give the Raiders the final margin of victory, 32-0

The muddy and wet field led to five fumbles in the game. The Raiders gained 165 yards on the ground, with Bryan Jennings Jr. leading the way with 50 yards on 13 carries.

Ricciardi completed 7 of 13 passes for 65 yards, an interception, and a touchdown. Gordon led all Raiders receivers with three catches for 28 yards and a touchdown.

The Raiders defense was dominant, as it has been all season long. They limited the Wolves to 16 yards rushing, 15 yards passing, and intercepted three passes. The Wolves only had four yards of total offense in the first half.

The Raiders now head on the road for the remainder of the NAFL playoffs. The first stop is St. Paul, Minn., next week Saturday to battle the St. Paul Pioneers who defeated the Dakota Lawdawgs 7-0 to advance to the Northern Conference championship game.

For more information about the Racine Raiders, please visit http://www.racineraiders.com.

Posted @ 12:05 a.m.

Kenosha,WI – Few games live up to the pregame hype. An exception to the rule took place at Mahone Middle School in Kenosha Saturday night as the Racine Raiders (11-2) defeated the defending North American Football League (NAFL) champion Indianapolis Tornados in a defensive battle, 21-14.

The teams were scoreless through the first quarter of play, but the Tornados did have a great opportunity late in the quarter. Raiders punter Tim Merchut mishandled the snap on a punt deep in Raiders territory. He ran outside and tried to kick the ball on the run, giving the Tornados the ball at the Raiders 15-yard line. A few plays later, Raiders defensive back Donald Woodard picked off a Quincy Adams pass at the nine-yard line, preserving the tie game.

The Raiders would draw first blood midway through the second quarter on a four-yard touchdown run by former Green Bay Packer J.R. Taylor. Taylor was playing in his first game since breaking his fibula and dislocating his ankle on July 11.

The Tornados responded on their ensuing possession. Adams hit running back Mo Virgil on a screen pass that Virgil was able to bring down to the Raiders ten-yard line. A few plays later, fullback Mike Perkins ran the ball in from three yards out. The Chad Rollins extra-point was good and the score was tied at seven.

The Raiders moved the ball well on their following possession, but the drive ended when quarterback Ron Ricciardi was picked off. The teams went into halftime tied at seven.

The Raiders offense got the ball first in the second half and were marching down the field. Ricciardi threw a pass intended for wide receiver Dorian Palmer. Tornados defensive back Charles Jackson tipped the ball right into the hands of linebacker Anthony Weather who rumbled 40 yards for a touchdown. The point-after gave the Tornados a 14-7 lead just minutes into the half.

The Raiders would respond late in the third quarter as Ricciardi connected with wide receiver Curtis Gordon on a 16-yard touchdown pass. Kicker Tim Merchut added the extra point and the game was tied at 14.

The Tornados responded by driving the ball down to the Raiders ten-yard line. Adams, under pressure and moving up in the pocket, threw the ball in the middle of the field near the goal line. Raiders rookie defensive back and NAFL First Team All-Star Torie Ruffin picked off the pass at the three-yard line and returned it 97 yards for what would be the winning score, giving Racine a 21-14 lead, with six seconds to play in the third quarter.

The Tornados had trouble moving the ball until late in the fourth quarter. They converted two fourth down plays on their final drive, getting the ball deep into Raiders territory. Adams attempted to hit a Tornados receiver in the front corner of the end zone with 36 seconds left in the game but Woodard stepped in front of the pass and came up with his second interception of the game, securing the Raiders victory.

The Raiders defense held the defending champions to just 225 total yards and picked off three passes in the game.

The Raiders return to Historic Horlick Field next week for probably the final time in 2009. They will play the Traverse City (Mich.) Wolves in the third round of the NAFL playoffs. The game will begin at 7 p.m.

The Wolves advanced by beating the London (Ont.) Silverbacks 20-7 in Traverse City Saturday night. The Raiders played the Wolves at Historic Horlick Field on August 29, and walked away with a 43-6 victory.

For more information about the Racine Raiders, please visit http://www.racineraiders.com.

Posted @ 1:27 p.m.

Racine, WI – The Racine Raiders (10-2) will battle the defending North American Football League (NAFL) champion Indianapolis Tornados (9-2) on Saturday, October 10, at 7 p.m. The game will take place at Mahone Middle School (6900 South 60th Street) in Kenosha because Historic Horlick Field will be hosting a high school football game that was unable to be moved.

The Tornados are the second seed in the Great Lakes Region of the Northern Conference of the NAFL. Their only losses came to the Nashville Storm (11-0), the top seed in the Southern Conference.

The Tornados advanced to the second round by defeating the Chicago Wolverines 26-8 last week. The Raiders, the top seed in the Great Lakes Region, received a bye in the first round of the playoffs.

The Raiders finished the regular season ranked third in scoring offense (43.8 ppg) and 13th in defense, allowing just 11.4 points per game.

The Tornados finished 14th in both scoring offense (28.7 ppg) and defense (11.7 ppg).

The only common opponent the two teams faced this year were the Traverse City Wolves. The Tornados beat the Wolves 35-3 in Indianapolis on September 26. The Raiders defeated the Wolves 43-6 on August 29 in Racine.

The winner of the game will play the winner of the game between the London Silverbacks and Traverse City Wolves, taking place in Traverse City, Mich., on Saturday. The winner or the game between the Raiders and Tornados will host that game on Saturday, October 17.

For more information about the Racine Raiders, please visit http://www.racineraiders.com.

Posted @ 2:40 p.m.

The Raiders wasted little time in the game as Charles Owens returned a Falcon punt 73 yards for a touchdown 39 seconds into the game. It was the fifth time this season that Owens returned a punt for a touchdown.

The Raiders couldn’t take advantage of a Zach Pederson interception. Ron Ricciardi, starting in place of Brett Hall who was attending a wedding, threw his only interception of the game on the ensuing drive. Falcons defensive back Ivan Prater returned it to the Chicago 43-yard line with 4:57 left in the first quarter.

The Falcons scored on the very next play when Marlon Hamlin connected with Daryal Weaver on a 20-yard touchdown pass. The Falcons were not successful on their two-point conversion attempt, allowing the Raiders to maintain a slim 7-6 lead.

The Falcons attempted an onside kick, which was handled easily by Dante Washington. The Raiders took advantage of the field position when Tim Merchant, who was filling in at punter and kicker for the nonleague game, kicked a 41-yard field goal to give Racine a 10-6 lead.

The Raiders struck first in the second quarter when Ricciardi completed a 54-yard touchdown pass to Owens, extending the Raiders lead to 17-6.

The Falcons responded with a score of their own 23 seconds later courtesy of a 44-yard touchdown pass from James Davis to Jermel Smith. Scott Duvall, a 54-year old drop kicker, converted the extra point cutting the Raiders lead to 17-13.

The Raiders answered right back as Bryan Jennings, Jr. scored his only touchdown of the game on an eight-yard run with 8:28 left in the half. Merchant’s extra-point sailed wide left and the Raiders led 23-13.

The Falcons next possession came to a sudden halt when linebacker Nate Harris intercepted a Davis pass. Eleven seconds later Ricciardi found Owens on a 50-yard touchdown pass, giving the Raiders a 30-13 halftime lead.

The story of the first half was Owens who had three total touchdowns, two by pass and one via return, and 203 total yards.

The Raiders scored the only points of the third quarter when Merchant kicked a 30-yard field goal, extending Racine’s lead to 33-13.

The Falcons got on the board one last time when Davis found Weaver on a 10-yard touchdown pass with 2:18 left to play in the game. The two-point conversion pass by Duvall was no good and the Raiders went on to win 33-19.

As a team the Raiders gained 70 yards and one touchdown on 19 rushes. Ricciardi completed 7 of 14 passes for 198 yards and two touchdowns. Owens led the way receiving with 3 catches for 130 yards and a pair of touchdowns.

The next Raiders game is a North American Football League playoff game at home on October 10. The Raiders will play the winner of a first round game between the Chicago Wolves and London Silverbacks to take place in London, Ontario, Canada, on October 3.

For more information about the Racine Raiders, please visit http://www.racineraiders.com.

Posted @ 12:30 P.M.

Running back Bryan Jennings, Jr., wide receiver Sam D’Alie, defensive back Torie Ruffin, punter Mike Morrison, and returner Charles Owens were named to the first team.

Linebacker James Cichon, defensive back Will Norwood, and kicker Ben Aguilar were named to the second team.

Jennings is second in the NAFL in rushing yards (925). D’Alie ranks fifth in receiving yards (530). Ruffin is eighth in interceptions (5) and ninth in pass deflected (10). Morrison is one of the top punters, averaging 39 yards per punt. Owens leads the NAFL with a 28-yard-per-punt return average and has scored five touchdowns.

Over 100 players from the Northern Conference were named to the NAFL All-Star team. The Dubuque Bruisers led the way with 12 selections. The Raiders had the fifth most players named. Racine had the third most players selected on the first team, behind the Bruisers (9) and the Dakota Lawdawgs (8).

Most noticeably missing from the team are any offensive linemen from the Raiders. The Raiders offensive line have been named NAFL Offensive Line of the Week for the NAFL Northern Conference twice. The team ranks sixth in the league in rushing and two running backs rank in the top 15 in the league in rushing.

For more information about the Racine Raiders, please visit http://www.racineraiders.com.

Posted @ 2:10 a.m.

Racine, WI – The Racine Raiders (9-2) defeated the Grand Rapids (MI) Thunder (10-5) 30-16 in front of nearly 1,000 fans Saturday night at Historic Horlick Field in Racine. The game was marred by 34 flags and 300 yards in penalties against the teams; 160 against Racine and 140 against the Thunder.

The Raiders got the first points of the game when Mike Morrison, filling in for injured kicker Ben Aguilar, kicked a 33-yard field goal with 11:19 remaining in the first quarter. Six minutes later the Raiders scored a touchdown on a Bryan Jennings Jr. three yard run.

During the second quarter the Thunder controlled the clock on a drive that took up 8:10, however they gained negative yardage and did not score any points, getting five first downs, all on penalties.

The Thunder would cut the lead to 10-7 when Brant Brooks ran the ball 53 yards on a lateral with 3:05 left in the first half.

The Raiders wasted no time taking care of business to start the second half. Jennings scored on a 22-yard run, which was set up by an amazing kick return by Charles Owens, less than a minute into the third quarter.

The Thunder answered with a score of their own when Aaron James completed a 55-yard touchdown pass to Josh Tomazewski just two minutes later. Raiders linebacker James Cichon blocked the extra point attempt, making the score 17-13 in favor of Racine.

The Thunder scored the first points of the fourth quarter on a Mirza Causevic36-yard field goal with 8:12 left to play, narrowing the Raiders lead to a single point.

The Raiders responded with a drive of their own which culminated in a Brett Hall nine-yard touchdown pass to Sam D’Alie. The extra point attempt sailed wide right, giving Racine a 23-16 lead.

Eric Feest, who slipped earlier in the game allowing the Thunder to score a touchdown, made up for his earlier mistake by making a huge interception with 5:20 left in the ball game.

Raiders starting quarterback Brett Hall was ejected from the game with 1:52 left in the fourth quarter after receiving two unsportsmanlike conduct penalties in a matter of seconds, which meant that Ron Ricciardi had to enter the game to take his place.

Fullback Adam Chorazy came up huge with a 48-yard run when the Raiders faced second and 55. The Raiders scored another touchdown with 1:19. This time Dante Washington ran the ball 15 yards to the end zone. After the extra point the Raiders had a 14 point lead.

Feest clinched a Raiders victory when he forced a fumble with 1:04 remaining in the fourth quarter.

Hall completed 11 of 22 passes for 137 yards and a touchdown. Jennings led the Raider ground attack gaining 111 yards on 21 carries and scoring a pair of touchdowns. D’Alie led all Raider receivers with 77 yards and a touchdown on five catches.

The defense was outstanding for the Raiders holding the Thunder to 66 yards on the ground and recorded five sacks in the game.

The Raiders clinched the top seed in the Great Lakes Region earlier in the night as the Nashville (TN) Storm defeated the Indianapolis (IN) Tornados, 42-0, in Indianapolis. The Tornados are the defending North American Football League champions. The Raiders are now guaranteed home playoff games through the third round.

The Racine Raiders host the Chicago Falcons next Saturday, September 26, at 7 p.m. at Historic Horlick Field.

For more information about the Racine Raiders, please visit http://www.racineraiders.com.

Posted @ 11:40 p.m.

The Raiders got off to a slow start, allowing the Lawdawgs to jump out to a 14-0 lead. The team came out of halftime looking completely different and managed to take a 19-14 lead over the Lawdawgs with 5:30 to play in the game.

The Lawdawgs would respond, scoring with just 46 seconds to play and converting a two-point conversion to take a 22-19 lead.

Raiders returner Charles Owens returned the ensuing kickoff to the Raiders 38-yard line and then caught the first pass of the drive, setting the Raiders up in Lawdawgs territory at the 32-yard line.

With just 14 seconds left, quarterback Brett Hall had trouble handling the snap, picked the ball up but was immediately hit by a Lawdawgs defender, causing him to fumble again. The Lawdawgs recovered the fumble and went on to victory, securing home field through much of the NAFL playoffs. The Raiders, meanwhile, may be on the road for much of the NAFL playoffs with the loss.

The Grand Rapids (MI) Thunder roll into Historic Horlick Field next week. The Thunder play in the United States Football League and are a perennial top team. The game begins at 7 p.m.

For more information about the Racine Raiders, please visit http://www.racineraiders.com.

Posted @ 3:30 P.M.

Racine, WI – The Traverse City (MI) Wolves (5-1) came to Historic Horlick Field Saturday night as one of the top teams in the North American Football League (NAFL). They left cold, wet, and humiliated following a 43-6 drubbing by the Racine Raiders (8-1).

The Raiders shot themselves in the foot numerous times in the first ten minutes of the game, amassing numerous penalties and finally failing to score on a 13 play drive that ended in a missed Mike Morrison 40-yard field goal.

The emotion of a big game subsided, however, and the Raiders started to show the Wolves that they were outmatched. Bryan Jennings, Jr., started the scoring for Racine with a 13-yard touchdown run with 1:54 to play in the first quarter, giving the Raiders a 7-0 lead.

On the ensuing drive, linebacker James Cichon sacked Wolves quarterback Will Moran. Moran fumbled the ball and defensive back Phil Despopoulos picked it up and ran it 16 yards for a touchdown, giving Racine a 14-0 lead.

The Raiders would score just two minutes later on a 14-yard touchdown pass from Brett Hall to Sam D’Alie and Racine led 21-0.

The Raiders added a safety with 2:06 to play in the first half when a snap sailed over punter Pablo Bocardo’s head and out of the back of the end zone for a safety, giving Racine a 23-0 lead.

The Raiders would tack on six more points on a 32-yard touchdown pass from Hall to wide receiver Dorian Palmer. Palmer received a personal foul for excessive celebration and Morrison’s extra point attempt from 27 yards was no good but the Raiders would take a 29-0 lead into the half.

The defense played stellar in the first half, holding the Wolves to negative total yards.

There was no quit in the Wolves. They started out the second half by stopping the Raiders initial drive and scored on a ten-yard run by fullback D.J. Szymoniak. The snap on the extra point attempt sailed through the holder’s hands. The Wolves cut the Raiders lead to 29-6.

The Wolves looked like they might get some momentum going in their favor when they had the Raiders at third-and-long on the ensuing drive. Hall then completed a short pass across the middle to D’Alie, who broke it for a 55-yard touchdown, giving the Raiders a 36-6 lead.

The Raiders would cap the scoring on an 85-yard interception return by defensive back Torie Ruffin, his fifth interception of the season.

The Raiders harassed the Wolves quarterbacks all game, recording eight sacks and intercepted three passes. They held the Wolves to just 109 total yards. The Wolves averaged 290 yards per game coming into the game, including 210 yards rushing.

Hall overcame very sloppy playing conditions to complete 11 of 22 passes for 213 yards. D’Alie led the receivers with five catches for 117 yards and two touchdowns.

The Raiders have a bye next week. They play perennial powerhouse, the Dakota (SD) Lawdawgs (7-1) at Historic Horlick Field on Saturday, September 12, in another game with major playoff implications. The game begins at 7 p.m. The Lawdawgs are three-time NAFL North Central Division champions and feature the top rushing attack in the league.

For more information about the Racine Raiders, please visit http://www.racineraiders.com.

Posted @ 7:40 p.m.

Racine, WI. – The North American Football League is calling this weekend’s action “Showdown Saturday” as no less than six games will have major playoff implications. One of those games will take place at Historic Horlick Field in Racine.

The Racine Raiders (7-1) will battle the Traverse City (MI) Wolves (5-0) at 7 p.m. The Raiders enter Saturday’s game with the second-rated scoring offense and 14th best defense in the NAFL. Racine is outscoring their opponents by an average of 47-11.

The Wolves, a first-year team, have the seventh-ranked scoring offense and sixth-ranked defense, outscoring opponents by an average of 39-5.

Both teams have similar strengths on offense. The Raiders feature a running attack that is averaging 220 yards per game, good for fifth in the NAFL. The Wolves like to keep the ball on the ground as well,averaging 207.8 yards per game, which ranks seventh in the league.

Bryan Jennings, Jr., leads the Raiders and is third in the NAFL, with 102 rushes for 744 yards, a 7.3 average. He’s tied for the league lead with ten touchdowns. Eric Ervin ranks ninth in the league with 47 carries for 393 yards, an 8.4 average, and four touchdowns.

The Wolves have two rushers in the top 20 in the league. D.J. Szymoniak leads the way with 45 rushes for 395, an 8.8 average, and eight touchdowns. Casey Conklin has carried the ball 49 times for 261 yards, a 5.3 average, and three touchdowns.

One advantage for Racine might come in the passing game. With the addition of Brett Hall a few weeks ago, the Raiders passing attack has greatly improved. Hall has completed nearly 60% of his passes for 433 yards and four touchdowns in just two games as a starter.

The Raiders receivers have stepped up their game lately as well. Sam D’Alie, the Minor League Football News Offensive Player of the Year in 2006, had a slow start but now leads the team with 308 yards receiving and four touchdowns. Dorian Palmer is tied with D’Alie for the lead in receptions with 14, three of which have gone for touchdowns. Tight end Tyler Vogds, who was in Minnesota Vikings camp in May, has also had solid back-to-back games. He now has eight receptions for 107 yards.

The Wolves, meanwhile, are averaging just 71 yards through the air. Will Moran has completed 41% of his pass attempts for 306 yards. Seven of Moran’s 23 completions have gone for touchdowns. Will Conklin is his favorite target with eight receptions for 194 yards and two touchdowns.

Both teams feature stellar defenses. The Raiders feature one of the best defensive backfields in the NAFL with four players among the leaders in pass deflections and two in interceptions. Will Norwood has picked off four passes and deflected seven. Torie Ruffin is tied with Norwood for the team lead with four interceptions and has eight passes defensed. Veteran cornerback Eric Feest leads the Raiders with ten pass deflections to go with two interceptions.

Ryan Brown leads the way for the Wolves with 28 tackles, including eight tackles for loss. Joe Bagley is right behind Brown, also with 28 tackles, five of them for loss. The Wolves are averaging nearly four sacks per game, led by Darnell Wilson with four and Mike Hansen with 3-1/2. Tim Ohlert leads the team with three interceptions, all of which have gone for touchdowns.

The difference in the game may come down to special teams where the Raiders feature the best punt returner in the NAFL. Charles Owens, the 2007 NAFL Championship game most valuable player, is averaging 34 yards per punt return and leads the NAFL with four return touchdowns. Raiders punter Mike Morrison is third in the NAFL, averaging 41 yards per punt.

Saturday is also Alumni Night and will feature former Raiders’ players and staff from the 56-year history of the team. Former player and board president, Leonard Ziolkowski will be inducted into the Racine Raiders Hall of Fame at halftime.

The nationally-acclaimed Kilties Drum and Bugle Corps will perform prior to the game. This will be the Kilties’ last field show performance before leaving for DCA World Championships in Rochester, NY, over Labor Day weekend. Fans are encouraged to bring signs to show support for the Kilties and the Raiders.

Tickets for the game are $8 for adults, $6 for seniors, and $4 for students. The gates will open at 5 p.m.

For more information, please visit http://www.racineraiders.com.

Posted @ 7:00 a.m.

Dubuque, IA – The Racine Raiders (7-1) ran away from the Dubuque Bruisers (5-4) early Saturday afternoon at McAleece City Field in Dubuque, Iowa. The Raiders rebounded following a road loss to the Roscoe Rush last week by beating the Bruisers 49-12.

Quarterback Ron Ricciardi (Florida State University) found wide receiver Dorian Palmer on the Raiders first possession of the game for a 33-yard touchdown. Kicker Ben Aguilar (North Central College) added the extra point and the Raiders led 7-0.

The Raiders defense forced the Bruisers to punt on the next possession of the game and Charles Owens (Eastern Illinois University) returned the punt 85 yards for a touchdown, giving the Raiders an early 14-0 lead. Owens is leading the North American Football League in punt return average with 39 yards per return.

The Bruisers struck on their next drive when quarterback Jamar Jackson bought some time and threw downfield to wide receiver Torrey Smith for 48-yard touchdown. Jackson’s two-point conversion pass fell incomplete, cutting the Raiders lead to 14-6.

The Raiders responded with a five-yard touchdown run by Bryan Jennings, Jr., (Vermillion Community College) to give Racine a 21-6 lead in the second quarter.

Jackson, after chasing down a ball that was snapped over his head, was able to buy time with his feet, and eventually found Smith for a second time, a 68-yard touchdown. Jackson’s two-point conversion run failed and the Bruisers trailed 21-12.

It would be all Raiders after that as they scored 28 unanswered points to close out the game.

The Raiders return home next week to battle the undefeated Traverse City (Mich) Wolves (6-0) at Historic Horlick Field. It is Alumni Night and the team has numerous activities planned. Several former players from the 1950s through last year will be on-hand and will be recognized at halftime. The Kilties Drum and Bugle Corps will perform before the game and the traveling Racine Professional/Semi-Pro/Minor League Football Hall of Fame display will be onsite.

Posted @ 10:55 a.m.

Racine,WI – The Racine Raiders game against the Dubuque Bruisers has been moved from Cascade High School in Cascade, Iowa, to Mcales City Field in Dubuque. The game will still begin at 5 p.m.

Cascade High School notified the Bruisers that the Cascade High School field couldn’t be utilized to a large quantity of rain that has fallen in the Cascade area this week.

Fans can listen to the game on WRJN 1400 AM or via the Internet through the Raiders’ website. Driving directions are available on the Racine Raiders website at http://www.racineraiders.com.

The Raiders will return home next Saturday, August 29, to play the Traverse City Wolves (6-0). August 29 is Alumni Night and will feature alumni from the past 56 years of Raiders football, a special ceremony to commemorate the 1989 National Championship team, and Hall of Fame inductions.

Posted @ 5:10 p.m.

The Raiders scored on touchdown passes of 27 and 43 yards by quarterback Brett Hall (University of Albany). Wide receiver Sam D’Alie (Horlick High School) was on the receiving end of both passes as well as a two-point conversion.

The night came down to one kick, however. Fullback Josh Macara, doing his best to fill-in at kicker, had a 37-yard field goal blocked with 4.8 seconds remaining in the game and the Rush pulled off the upset.

The Rush were led by quarterback Joe Cotton who scored on touchdown runs of 26 and 9 yards. The Rush, who should’ve been participating in the IFL playoffs this weekend, left the league following the regular season after the IFL reversed the result of a game the Rush won on a last second 58-yard field goal against the Burlington Blue Devils in July.

The Raiders travel to Cascade, Iowa, next week to battle the Dubuque Bruisers (5-2). The Raiders will return home on August 29 to play the Traverse City Wolves (5-0). August 29 is Alumni Night and will feature alumni from the past 56 years of Raiders football, a special ceremony to commemorate the 1989 National Championship team, and Hall of Fame inductions.

Posted @ 1:10 p.m.

Racine,WI – The Gateway (MO) Soul (5-3) fought to their last gasping breath, but it wasn’t nearly enough Saturday night at Historic Horlick Field against the powerhouse Racine Raiders (5-0). The Raiders beat the Soul 51-19 in front of about 800 fans.

Wide receiver Charles Owens (Eastern Illinois University) is used to being on the big stage. In 2007, as a member of the Kane County Eagles, he received the Most Valuable Player award for his efforts in the National Championship game. Saturday night, Owens showed some of the same explosiveness he did nearly two years ago. He returned punts 45 and 70 yards for touchdowns and caught a 26-yard touchdown pass from newcomer Brett Hall (Temple University).

Running back Bryan Jennings, Jr. (Vermillion Community College), the leading rusher and scorer in the North American Football League entering this week, added 67 yards rushing and a touchdown. The passing game also finally began to click as quarterbacks Ron Ricciardi (Florida State University) and Hall combined to pass for 200 yards and four touchdowns, two of which were caught by wide receiver Sam D’Alie (Racine Horlick).

The defense continued to excel, allowing just one touchdown and holding the Soul to 106 total yards in the game. The Soul completed just 8 of 29 passes. Linebacker James Cichon (Carthage College) intercepted two passes, returning one 62 yards, setting up a Raiders touchdown.

The Raiders host the River City Rough Riders (0-6) at Historic Horlick Field next Saturday at 7 p.m. Tickets are $8 for adults, $6 for seniors, and $4 for children. Tickets can be purchased at Historic Horlick Field beginning at 5:30p.m. on gamedays, or at any of our five convenient ticket outlets located throughout Racine (http://www.racineraiders.com/ticketinfo.php).

Posted @ 2:00 p.m.

LA Crosse, WI  – The Racine Raiders (4-0, 2-0 NAFL) relied heavily on their opportunistic defense in a 17-0 win over the River City (WI) Rough Riders (0-5, 0-4 NAFL) Saturday afternoon in North American Football League (NAFL) action in West Salem, Wis.

The defense came down with six interceptions, including three inside the Raiders’ 20-yard line, en route to the victory. They also recorded three sacks.

Linebacker Nate Harris (Carroll College) and safety Torie Ruffin (Concordia University) each picked off two passes while defensive back Philip Despopolous (Broken Bow HS) and linebacker Zach Pedersen (North Central College) each came down with one interception.

Meanwhile, linebacker Will Caldwell (Grand Valley State University) had 1-1/2 sacks,with Pedersen also recording a sack. Defensive lineman Brandon Rogers (Tennessee State University) also got in on the action with half a sack. The defense held the Rough Riders to 94 total yards. River City has now been shutout in each of their last three games.

The Raiders, who were the top rushing team in the NAFL entering this week, rushed for 232 yards. Bryan Jennings, Jr. (Vermillion Community College), second in the league in rushing and tied for first in touchdowns scored, rushed for 152 yards on 18 carries, an 8.4 yard per carry average, and one touchdown, a 37-yard scamper with 11:09 to play in the first half that gave Racine a 10-0 lead.

The only other touchdown came less than a minute into the fourth quarter on a two-yard sneak by quarterback Stephen Jackson (Rochester Community College), which was setup by a 34-yard pass to wide receiver Charles Ownes (Eastern Illinois University).

The Raiders still struggled with their passing attack again Saturday. Virgil McNeil (Wisconsin), Ron Ricciardi (Florida State University), and Jackson all took snaps in the game.McNeil completed just 2 of 9 passes for 3 yards and was intercepted once. Jackson was 1-for-3 for 34 yards and Ricciardi went 1-for-4 for just 3 yards.

The Raiders return home next week to play the Gateway (MO) Soul (5-3, 4-2 AFL) of the Alliance Football League (AFL). The Soul are in the midst of a three game winning streak entering tonight’s game and lead their division. They are ranked sixth in theAFL, a 23-team league.

The game starts at 7 p.m. at Historic Horlick Field (1648 North Memorial Drive, Racine). The Boy Scouts Drum & Bugle Corps will perform at halftime.

Posted @ 10:30 p.m.

Racine, WI  – Racine Raiders running back J.R. Taylor will be out at least six weeks following successful surgery to repair a broken fibula and dislocated ankle he suffered in the Raiders 55-21 victory over the Dubuque Bruisers last Saturday. Taylor had a plate and four screws inserted into his leg.

“I am hoping I can get back for the playoffs,” said Taylor. “I have commited to this team and now will be a cheerleader from the sideline and enjoy every minute of it. I have had so much fun thus far and look forward to doing what I can from the bench.”

Taylor, who spent time with the Green Bay Packers of the National Football League and Montreal Allouettes of the Canadian Football League, was injured one minute into the third quarter. Taylor took the handoff and rushed over right guard where he was met by two Bruiser defenders who tackled him.

Taylor has rushed 23 times for 149 yards, a 6.5-yard average, and five touchdowns in three games this season. Taylor was an All-American at Eastern Illinois University, playing all four years with Burlington native and Dallas Cowboys quarterback, Tony Romo.

Posted @ 7:00 a.m.

The Raiders wasted little time in showing the first-year Bruisers why the 2009 Raiders are considered one of the favorites in the NAFL.

Running back Bryan Jennings, Jr., scored on an 11-yard touchdown run eight minutes into the game. The Ben Aguilar kick was good and Racine staked claimto an early 7-0 lead.

The teams would battle back-and-forth, unable to find the end zone until Jennings scored on his second romp, an eight-yard touchdown run, with 9:11 to play in the first half, giving Racine a 14-0 lead.

Cornerback Donald Woodard, who just joined the Raiders this week following the indoor season, picked off a Jamar Jackson pass and returned it 75 yards for a touchdown with just under four minutes to play in the half, giving the Raiders a 21-0 lead.

Dubuque wasn’t about to rollover for the Raiders. With just under one minute left to play in the half, Jackson hit Marvin Mabry on a 45-yard touchdown pass. The kick was good and the Raiders lead was cut to 21-7.

Less than 30 seconds later, Bruiser cornerback Adam Kaiser intercepted a Ron Ricciardi pass and returned it 40 yards to the Raiders’ five-yard line. Two plays later, Jackson connected with Mabry again, this time on a seven-yard touchdown pass. A two-point pass attempt fell incomplete, following two penalties on the Bruisers. The Raiders went into halftime leading 21-13, but the momentum had switched in favor of Dubuque.

The Raiders came out in the second half and marched down the field. The drive eventually stalled and an Aguilar 42-yard field goal attempt sailed wide right. The Bruisers took immediate advantage of the opportunity, scoring on an18-yard touchdown pass from Jackson to Torrey Smith. Jackson ran in the two-point conversion and the game was tied just four minutes into the second half.

The Raiders would respond, thanks to the third rushing score by Jennings, a 21-yard attempt, with 7:33 to play in the third quarter. Aguilar’s kick was good and the Raiders led 28-21 and would never look back.

Defensive coordinator Alex Powell went away from using his normal defensive linemen on the line and switched to linebackers, allowing the Raiders to get more pressure on Jackson and neutralize his running ability.

Following a defensive stop, fullback Adam Chorazy pounded his way through Bruiser defenders on a three-yard touchdown run with 1:50 to play in the third. The Aguilar kick was good and the Raiders led 35-21.

Following another defensive stop, quarterback Virgil McNeil finished off a Raiders drive with a two-yard bootleg run to the right side. The Aguilar kick was blocked and the Raiders led 41-21 early in the fourth quarter.

On the ensuing drive, defensive back Will Norwood tipped a Jackson pass and came down with the deflection himself. He proceeded to race 38 yards into the end zone for his second interception return for a touchdown in two games. The Aguilar kick was good and the Raiders led 48-21 with 11:23 to play in the game.

Both teams recorded defensive stops. On their next drive, the Raiders got down to the 15-yard line of the Bruisers before the drive stalled. Aguilar came on to attempt a 32-yard field goal, but the Raiders ran a fake instead. Cornerback Eric Feest, who holds for kick attempts, rolled to his right and found running back Demetrius Thompson open in the end zone. The Aguilar kick was good and the Raiders walked away with a 55-21 victory and remain undefeated.

Jennings rushed for 103 yards, his second straight game over 100 yards. Sam D’Alie led Raiders receivers with three catches for 75 yards.

The Raiders defense held Jackson to 222 yards passing and 28 yards rushing. They also forced five Bruiser turnovers in the game.

Running back J.R. Taylor was taken off the field inan ambulance following an apparent ankle injury in the third quarter. His status is unknown.

The Raiders are on the road next week as they play the Chicago Wolverines at Alonzo Stagg Field on the University of Chicago campus next Saturday at 7 p.m.

Posted @ 10:17 a.m.

Racine, WI – The Racine Raiders once again allowed their opponent to score first Saturday night at Historic Horlick Field. They then rattled off 87 unanswered points en route to an 87-7 victory over the Kilbourn City Hawks. It was the 500th win in franchise history.

The Raiders opening possession went nowhere and they were forced to punt. On the Hawks first play, quarterback Charlie Campbell hooked up with wide receiver Martez Malone, who was being covered by Raiders’ defensive back Will Norwood. Norwood was unable to turn in time and Malone caught the ball and ran in for a 71-yard touchdown, giving the Hawks a 7-0 lead.

The Raiders responded by rushing the ball 42 times for 459 yards and ten touchdowns. The defense added an interception return for a touchdown and two safeties. Wide receiver Al Clarke also returned a punt for a touchdown.

Meanwhile, the Hawks were held to -13 total yards after their first offensive play, including minus-five rushing yards in the game.

Bryan Jennings, Jr. led the way for the Raiders with 15 rushes for 163 yards and two touchdowns. Former Green Bay Packer signee J.R. Taylor contributed two touchdowns and 79 yards rushing on just six carries. Running back Eric Ervin, who last played with the Raiders in 2007 and rushed for 14 touchdowns before suffering a compound fracture in his leg, rushed for 80 yards on seven carries. Quarterback Virgil McNeil contributed two rushing touchdowns and running backs Demetrius Thompson and Dante Washington each had one rushing touchdown in the rout.

The game had a running clock for the entire second half. The Raiders rushed for 357 yards in the first half alone on 34 carries. Even with a running clock, they mustered 102 yards on the ground in the second half.

The Raiders have a bye week for the July 4th holiday. They then begin their 2009 North American Football League regular season with a game against the Dubuque Bruisers. That game will take place on Saturday, July 11, 2009, at 7 p.m. at Historic Horlick Field in Racine.

Please visit http://www.racineraiders.com for more information.

Posted @ 2:43 a.m.

“For a minor league football team to be around long enough to achieve this milestone, is a testament to the fans who come out every week,” said Joe Mooney, President of the Racine Raiders. “The fans in Racine have long been regarded as the best and most supportive in the country. The 500th win, when we get it, belongs to them.”

The Raiders are currently 499-208-9, a .697 winning percentage. The Brooklyn Mariners lead the way with 560 wins entering the 2009 season. Watertown has 539 victories. The next closest team are the Marlboro Shamrocks with just over 400 wins. The Red & Black accomplished the feat in 89 years while it only took the Mariners 50 years. This is the Raiders 57th season.

“It’s a major milestone at our level,” said Mooney. “It’s a milestone to win 50 games in minor league football.”

The Racine Raiders (1-0) opponent Saturday, the Kilbourn City Hawks (0-1), are a first-year team out of the Wisconsin Dells area that play in the Mid-States Football League (MSFL).

The Raiders are coming off of an impressive 34-10 victory over the Leyden Lions (1-1). The Lions were the 2008 MSFL runner-up. Running backs Bryan Jennings, Jr. and J.R. Taylor, a priority free agent for the Green Bay Packers in 2003, led the way with three rushing touchdowns between them.
The Hawks enter the game following a 32-0 loss to the Lake Country Cyclones (1-0), one of the elite teams in the Wisconsin State Football League.

“One thing I am proud of is this flight of Hawks stood together and supported each other through the adversity against the Cyclones,” said head coach Todd Dillinder.

As with many teams, the Hawks want to see how they stack up against a team they’re trying to emulate.

“Our organization’s goal is to be of the same caliber, and operating structure, as the Racine Raiders and Green Bay Packers,” said Dillinder. “My players are excited about the opportunity to play the Racine Raiders and to see what our organization is working towards.”

The Raiders are offering a “Recession Buster” special for Saturday’s game. All adult and senior tickets purchased at the gate Saturday cost just $5. Adult tickets are normally $8 and senior tickets are regularly $6. Student (K-12) tickets are the regular price of $4.

“Racine Raiders games are already affordable,” said General Manager Bob Marcado. “We want to make it easy on the pocketbook for fans to potentially witness history.”

Former Racine Mayor and current alderman Tom Friedel will handle the honorary coin toss. The nationally-acclaimed Kilties Drum & Bugle Corps will present the National Anthem and perform at halftime.

The game starts at 7 p.m. and the gates open at 5:30 p.m. Free street and lot parking is available around Historic Horlick Field. Tailgating is allowed in the parking lots. Full concessions including burgers, brats, hot dogs, pizza, soda, and beer, are available at all Racine Raiders home games at Historic Horlick Field.

For more information on the Racine Raiders, please visit http://www.racineraiders.com.

Posted  @ 12:05 p.m.

“The Racine Raiders offer some of the best value for the money,” said Lori Goodwin, Vice President of Administration. “A family of four can attend a Raider game for under $20 this week.”

As an added treat, the nationally-acclaimed Kilties Drum and Bugle Corps will perform at halftime as well as present the National Anthem prior to the game.

“There is no event in Southeastern Wisconsin that can offer the value we’re offering fans Saturday night at Historic Horlick Field,” said Goodwin. “You get to see a very talented Racine Raiders football team and catch a Kilties performance all for just $5 a person.”

The game beings at 7 p.m. and gates open at 5:30 p.m.

For more information on the Racine Raiders, please visit http://www.racineraiders.com.

Posted @ 4:23 p.m.

Racine, WI – The Racine Raiders kickoff their 57th season of play Saturday against the Leyden Lions of the Mid-States Football League (MSFL). The game will begin at 7:00 p.m. at Ralph “Babe” Serpico Memorial Field in Melrose Park, Ill.

The Raiders are coming off of a disappointing season where they went 5-7 and posted their first losing season since 1978 when the team, known as the North Shore Gladiators, went 1-9 under head coach Jim Perry.

That was one year ago, however, and the face of adult amateur football in Northeastern Illinois and Southeastern Wisconsin looked much different.

The Kane County Eagles, the Raiders top nemesis for over 20 years, are no longer. The management of the team decided to focus their efforts on their indoor team, the Chicago Slaughter of the Continental Indoor Football League (CIFL). The move seems a wise one as the Slaughter went 12-0 in the CIFL regular season and will also be playing Saturday, a home playoff game against the Wisconsin Wolfpack.

Yes, you heard that correctly. The Slaughter are playing the indoor edition of the Wisconsin Wolfpack. The Wolfpack decided to enter the indoor realm in 2009 and made the semi-final game of the CIFL playoffs in their inaugural season. They also made a move on the outdoor side of operations, moving from the North American Football League (NAFL) to the Mid-Continental Football League (MCFL). It’s yet to be seen how the addition of the indoor team as well as the move to the MCFL will affect the Wolfpack.

The Milwaukee Marauders, who ceased operations last season, are now under new ownership and have moved to the local Ironman Football League (IFL).

That’s a lot of change in eight months. So where does that leave the Racine Raiders in 2009?

The Raiders remain in the NAFL, in a three team division with the Chicago Wolverines and the Chicago Chippewas. They will also play home-and-home series against the Dubuque Bruisers and La Crosse Rough Riders.

The Raiders open at home next Saturday against the Northern Illinois Cowboys of the MSFL. The Raiders rivalry with the Milwaukee Marauders continues on August 1 and they host one of the powerhouse teams in the state, the Fox Valley Force, on September 12. The Force have a handful of former Raiders on their roster.

The Raiders look to rebound from a poor 2008 season. Fans will notice many familiar names on the Raiders roster this year. Some have been with the Raiders family for many years, while others played at Historic Horlick Field as part of a visiting team.

The Racine Raiders look to return to national prominence in 2009. Practices have been well attended, often with 60-plus players in attendance. The goal is nothing short of the team’s eighth National Championship.

Tickets for this Saturday’s game are $6 for adults and $3 for children and seniors. Kids ten and under receive free admission. The Lions and Leyden Township will honor military personnel prior to the game.

For more information on the Racine Raiders, please visit http://www.racineraiders.com.

Posted @ 8:00 a.m.

The Raiders open their preseason schedule at Historic Horlick Field on Saturday, June 20, 2009, against the Leyden (Ill) Lions at 7:00 p.m.The Lions went 11-3 in 2008 and made it to the MSFL championship game, where they lost to the Chicago (Ill) Thunder, 26-21.

On Saturday, June 27, 2009, the Northern Illinois Cowboys will ride into Historic Horlick Field for a 7:00 p.m. game. The Cowboys were 5-3 in the MSFL last season.

This will be the first time the Raiders will play either the Lions or the Cowboys. The Lions began operations in 2004 while the Cowboys started in 2007.

The Raiders will have a bye on Saturday, July 4, 2009, before starting the North American Football League (NAFL) regular season on Saturday, July 11, 2009.

The Racine Raiders are an adult amateur football team with a history that dates back to 1953. The team is a 501(c)(3) Not-for-Profit organization with a mission to promote, advance and sponsor football among grade school, high school, college, and adult age groups in the community.

The Racine Raiders are dedicated to the enrichment of life through the avenue of organized athletics, youth benefit programs, and funding for the purpose of providing local scholarships.

For more information on the Racine Raiders, please visit the team’s website at http://www.racineraiders.com.

The first tryout will take place on Sunday, March 15, 2009, at The Prairie School (4050 Lighthouse Drive) in Racine from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Registration begins at 9:00 a.m.

The second tryout will take place on Saturday, April 25, 2009, at the Milwaukee County Sports Complex (6000 West Ryan Road) in Franklin from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Registration begins at 9:00 a.m.

All prospective players should fill out a Player Tryout Form on the Play for the Raiders recruitment website and attend at least one of the tryout dates. The Racine Raiders do not charge a player fee and offer a plethora of benefits, including workman’s compensation insurance, gas reimbursement, paid travel for road games, post-game meals, and more.

The Racine Raiders are an adult amateur football team with a history dating back to 1953. The team has won seven national championships, three regional championships, and 13 league championships. There are 26 former Raiders in the American Football Association Hall of Fame.

Numerous former Raider players have gone on to careers in the National Football League (NFL) and a variety of indoor leagues. Matt Turk, currently a punter for the Houston Texans of the NFL, is a former Racine Raider player.

The team is a 501(c)(3) Not-for-Profit organization.

Posted by The Racine News Team February 19, 2009 at 12:55 p.m.

A tryout will then take place on Friday, February 20, 2009, from 8:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., also at Razor Sharp Fitness.

Posted by The Racine News Team February 17, 2009 at 6:00 a.m.