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"RACINE RAIDERS HOST ARMED FORCES NIGHT ON JULY 5"

"Veterans and active duty military personnel and one guest receive free admission"
 

"June 29 (RACINE, WIS.) - The Racine Raiders will host Armed Forces Night on Saturday, July 5, 2014, at Historic Horlick Field. Kickoff for the game against the Fox Valley Force of the Northern Elite Football League is set for 7:00 p.m.

"The Racine Raiders are offering free admission to all veterans and active duty military personnel with their military identification card, something they do for every home game. For this game, the team will also allow each armed forces member or veteran to bring one guest (friend, spouse, etc.) to the game for free.

"The Great Lakes Naval Band will perform the National Anthem and will return to perform at halftime. There will also be a flyover for the National Anthem and fireworks.

"To further honor the United States of America, all in-game music will be patriotic-themed.

"The Raiders host the Fox Valley Force, who are 9-0 on the season. This will be the first-ever meeting of the two in-state powerhouses.

"The Force are coming off of a weather-shortened, 14-13 win over the Chippewa Valley Predators this past Saturday. The Raiders had a bye this past weekend but beat the Leyden Lions, 65-13, on June 21.

"Discounted tickets are available at nine-area Racine ticket outlets. A complete listing of outlets can be found on the Racine Raiders website at http://www.racineraiders.com/schedule-2014/tickets/.

"The gates at Historic Horlick Field open at 5:30 p.m. Plenty of free parking is available in two parking lots (tailgating is allowed) and on the streets around the field.

"The Racine Raiders, a 501c(3) not-for-profit organization, begin their 62nd season of operations in 2014. The Raiders won their eighth national championship in 2012. For more information on the Racine Raiders and their mission to advance football in Southeastern Wisconsin, please visit http://www.racineraiders.com."

"RACINE RAIDERS KICKOFF 2014 CAMPAIGN SATURDAY NIGHT"

 

"Racine Kilties to perform at halftime"

 

"June 16 (RACINE, WIS.) - The Racine Raiders open their 2014 season against the Leyden (Ill.) Lions on Saturday, June 21, 2014, at 7 p.m. at Historic Horlick Athletic Field.

"The evening is dubbed 'Education Appreciation Night.' The team has several activities planned for the evening including clowns, the Racine Kilties Drum and Bugle Corps, scholarship presentations and a special giveaway to one school in the Racine Unified School District (RUSD).

"The Racine Raiders will give $500 to one school in RUSD during a special halftime drawing.

"Employees of RUSD will receive half-price admission when they show their RUSD identification card at the Historic Horlick Athletic Field ticket windows on the day of game. They’ll also receive an entry form with each ticket purchased to enter their school into the random drawing for the $500 prize.

"The Raiders will also present scholarships to four graduating seniors from Racine County at halftime. The Raiders distribute four, $500 scholarships annually through a competitive process.

"The world-famous Racine Kilties Drum and Bugle Corps continue a regular tradition and will perform at halftime.

"There are also activities for kids planned. Cuddles and Billy Boy, two area clowns, will be available from 6-8 p.m. to make balloon animals and paint the Racine Raiders logo on kid’s faces.

"The Racine Raiders have again teamed up with the Racine Journal Times for a bike giveaway at every home game. Instead of having kids collect autographs in the Racine Raiders yearbook, the team is challenging kids with a scavenger hunt for different items or information at each game. Everyone who competes the scavenger hunt by a specified time will be entered into a drawing for a chance to win one of two bikes to be given away at each home game.

"In addition, RelyLocal Racine/Kenosha will be on-site selling RelyLocal Rewards Cards for $15. Anyone that purchases a RelyLocal Rewards Card at the game will receive a coupon good for $5 off of a minimum $15 purchase at the Trading Post that night only. The card is good for discounts at hundreds of local businesses in Racine and Kenosha.

"The Racine Raiders, a 501c(3) not-for-profit organization, begin their 62nd season of operations in 2014. The Raiders won their eighth national championship in 2012. For more information on the Racine Raiders and their mission to advance football in Southeastern Wisconsin, please visit http://www.racineraiders.com."

"RACINE RAIDERS BOARD OF DIRECTORS HOLDS ANNUAL ELECTIONS"

"Matt Nelson elected new president"

"January 10 (RACINE, WIS.) - The Racine Raiders board of directors held their annual election of officers for the non-profit, 501c(3) organization, on Wednesday night. Six positions were voted upon. The positions and elected officers are:

• President – Matt Nelson
• Vice President of Operations – Mike Tingwald
• Vice President of Operations – Clyde Freehling
• Secretary – Greg Fictum
• Treasurer – Connie Jorgensen
• General Manager – Bob Marcado

"Matt Nelson is a lifelong Racine resident, former business owner and former All-American tight end for the team. Nelson was the team’s offensive coordinator for the least National Championship in 2012.

“'I am honored to be chosen for this position with the organization,' Nelson said after the elections. 'We are reaping the rewards of what others before us have done and all of the hard work that this board, past presidents, and a plethora of volunteers have accomplished.'

"Nelson further commented on the goals of the organization.

“'Our goal is to remain the premiere semi-pro football organization in the United States. We have something extraordinary here and we want to keep improving,' said Nelson. 'The Raiders objectives are consistent – to give the great community of Racine a quality team they can be proud of, promote football through the many youth and high school programs throughout our community, and give college players an opportunity to continue to display their talents on the field.'

"Additionally, the Racine Raiders partner with the community by supporting and helping many other community organizations, hosting the All-County Football Banquet, and annually awarding four college-bound students with scholarships.

"As a non-profit organization, the Racine Raiders do not have a single owner, but are run by a board of directors, which currently consists of 14 members.

"The Racine Raiders, a 501c(3) not-for-profit organization, begin their 62nd season of operations in 2014. The Raiders won their eighth national championship in 2012. For more information on the Racine Raiders and their mission to advance football in Southeastern Wisconsin, please visit http://www.racineraiders.com."

"RAIDERS HOST ALBANY METRO MALLERS IN USFA/USFF NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP"

"Raiders attempt to win ninth national championship Saturday night"
 

"November 3 (RACINE, WIS.) - The Racine Raiders (13-1) will host the Albany (NY) Metro Mallers (12-1) Saturday night, November 9, 2013, at 7 p.m. at Historic Horlick Athletic Field in Racine, Wis. The national title game is co-sanctioned by the United States Football Association (USFA) and the United States Football Federation (USFF). The USFA is one of the most established sanctioning organizations in minor league football.

"The Raiders will be attempting to win their second straight national title and the ninth in team history. It will be the last game with head coach Gino Perfetto at the helm as Perfetto already announced he will not return in 2014.

"The Metro Mallers have a strong history dating back to 1972. Albany won a national championship in 2008 and have won nine league championships including winning the SPF - The League league title this season, their first in the league after moving from the Empire Football League.

"The two teams have played once before. In 1991, the Racine Raiders played an independent schedule and Albany traveled to Racine. The Raiders won, 27-13.

"The game will be carried live on WRJN 1400 AM and streaming at http://www.wrjn.com beginning with the pregame show at 6:45 p.m. with Don Wadewitz and Tom Christensen. Belle TV will also record the game with the audio from the radio broadcast for rebroadcast at a later date.

"ABOUT THE 2013 RACINE RAIDERS

"The Raiders feature a balanced offense and one of the best defenses in the country. Second-year quarterback Craig McClelland (UW-Oshkosh) leads the Raiders offense. McClelland has thrown for 1,750 yards and 25 touchdowns against just five interceptions.

"McClelland has spread the ball around equally to his top three targets. Sam D'Alie (Racine Horlick High School) has 23 catches fo 398 yards and 8 touchdowns. Rookie Dom Kegel (Greenville College), who earned most valuable player awards playing in Europe, has 22 receptions for 359 yards and 3 touchdowns. Dorian Palmer (Zion-Benton High School) is also in the mix with 21 grabs for 373 yards and 4 touchdowns. Adding to McClelland's weapons are tight end Traves Worthington (Lakeland College) who has 14 catches for 286 yards and 6 touchdowns and wide receiver Will Norwood (Miami University - Ohio) with 11 receptions for 239 yards and 3 touchdowns in just six games.

"The Raiders rushing attack features J.R. Taylor, who played with Dallas Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo at Eastern Illinois University and was signed as a priority free agent by the Green Bay Packers in 2003. Taylor was named co-offensive player of the year in the Mid-States Football League this season after rushing for 937 yards and 12 touchdowns.

"Taylor was joined in the backfield by Damonshay Pitt (Racine Park High School) who added 370 yards and 3 touchdowns and rookie Ivry Lashley (South Milwaukee High School) with 330 yards and 6 touchdowns.

"The Raiders defense is considered one of the best in the country. It all begins with the defensive line for Racine. Ardrey Jarrett (Waukegan High School) recorded 13 tackles for loss and 5 sacks on the season while Jaran Rutledge (Knox College) and Larry Williams (North Park University) helped hold down the interior of the line. Rutledge had six tackles for loss and three sacks while Williams contributed eight tackles for loss and four sacks.

"The pressure applied by the defensive line helps safety Torie Ruffin (Concordia University Wisconsin) roam downfield. Ruffin leads the team with 60 tackles, 7 interceptions, 3 fumble recoveries and 3 defensive touchdowns. Nate Heard (UW-Oshkosh) is a shutdown cornerback and leads the team with 14 pass breakups while also grabbing four interceptions.

"The linebackers are led by veteran Nate Harris. Harris had eight tackles for loss, five sacks, two interceptions and nine quarterback hurries. Deveron Davis (Racine Lutheran High School) is the leading tackler of the bunch with 37 tackles, including 3 tackles for loss and a sack. Brandon Hendrickson and Jordan Scott, both out of Kenosha Bradford High School, are big contributors. Hendrickson, playing in just six games this season due to injury, recorded 26 tackles, 2 tackles for loss, a sack and an interception. Scott is second on the team with 12 tackles for loss and has 5 sacks.

"ABOUT THE 2013 ALBANY METRO MALLERS

"Albany is anchored by veteran center Andres Morris who played collegiately at C.W. Post University. Morris was a first team all-star selection in the Empire Football League in 2011 and 2012 and has been a perennial minor league football All-American during his career.

"The Metro Mallers use a multi-headed rushing attack. C.J. Tarver, the team's all-purpose back, was named the most valuable player in the Metro Mallers 41-14 league championship win over the nationally ranked South Buffalo Celtics.

"Two of their biggest offensive weapons are wide receivers Culture Branch and Jason Quinn. Quinn, who is banged up a bit, is the possession receiver for Albany. Branch has won several all-league awards in his time with the team.

"On defense, three Murdock brothers start for Albany. Darnell, Dwayne and Donald start on the defensive line, outside linebacker and defensive back, respectively. Alex Brace is the featured linebacker for the Metro Mallers.

"'The guys have been around each other awhile,' says owner Sal Iavarone. 'The defensive starting unit has been together for around five years.'

"Two players on the Albany roster actually played in the last game between the two teams back in 1991. Iavarone started with the Metro Mallers in 1980 and played through the 2011 season. He's still on the roster but he suffered a broken hand in October 2011 and hasn't felt comfortable enough to take the field again.

"'I haven't officially retired,' says Iavarone.

"Jeff Lipscomb, currently a non-starter for the team at the age of 52, also played in the game in Racine in 1991. Lipscomb has been a member of the Metro Mallers off-and-on for 25 years.

"The Racine Raiders, a 501c(3) not-for-profit organization, begin their 61st season of operations in 2013. The Raiders won their eighth national championship in 2012. Find out more about the Racine Raiders at http://www.racineraiders.com."

"RAIDERS RACINE SUPREME"

"Raiders win 23rd straight game, Clinch home field throughout playoffs"
 

"August 25 (RACINE, WIS.) - The Racine Raiders clinched the Southwest Division title and home field advantage throughout the Mid-States Football League playoffs with a convincing 42-24 win over their crosstown rivals, the Racine Threat, in front of a crowd of well over 5,000 people at Historic Horlick Athletic Field in Racine, Wis.

"The Raiders extended the team's winning streak to 23 games dating back to July 2012. It matches the second longest winning streak in team history which spanned the 1994 and 1995 seasons.
"The Raiders ran all over the league's top defense, amassing 251 yards rushing and averaging over five yards per carry. Damonshay Pitt led the way for the Raiders with 89 yards on 11 rushes.
Pitt, filling in for an injured J.R. Taylor, gave teh Raiders the lead late in the third quarter on an electrifying 41-yard run. The Raiders led 29-24 and never looked back.
"Rookie running back Ivry Lashley had 77 yards on 7 touches and touchdown runs of 26 and 5 yards. Taylor finished with 72 yards on 21 carries before injuring his right knee. He is expected to be ready for the Raiders next game against the Muskego Hitmen in two weeks.
"Raiders quarterback Craig McClelland, who had his streak of consecutive games with a touchdown pass end at 20 last week against the Wauwatosa Spartans, threw two touchdowns. McClelland was 10-of-15 for 94 yards with one interception, just his second pick of the season. He threw touchdown passes to Traves Worthington and Sam D'Alie.
"The Raiders, who lost nearly every statistical category last week against Wauwatosa, were in control of the game from the outset despite a couple of bumps in the road where the Threat momentarily took a lead in the game.
"The Raiders had 22 first downs in the game to just 12 for the Threat and outgained the Threat 345 yards to 240 yards. Time of possession was heavily in favor of the Raiders as well. Racine held the ball for over 38 minutes.
"The Raiders have a bye week due to the Labor Day holiday this week but return to action at Historic Horlick Field on September 7, 2013, at 7 p.m. against the Muskego Hitmen. It is the last regular season league home game of the season for the Raiders.

"The Racine Raiders, a 501c(3) not-for-profit organization, begin their 61st season of operations in 2013. The Raiders won their eighth national championship in 2012. Find out more about the Racine Raiders at http://www.racineraiders.com."

"OVER 4,000 FANS EXPECTED AT HORLICK FIELD SATURDAY NIGHT"

"Racine Raiders and Racine Threat meet in 'Battle of Belle City'"
 

"GAME DUBBED 'BATTLE OF BELLE CITY'
The Racine Raiders and Racine Threat adult amateur football teams meet Saturday in a game being called the 'Battle of Belle City.' Both teams are undefeated on the season, bringing in 8-0 overall records and 6-0 records in the Mid-States Football League (MSFL). The winner of this game will claim the Southwest Division title.

"The Racine Raiders won the Semi-Pro BCS Summer/Fall national championship in 2012 and are riding a 22-game winning streak into the game. The Racine Threat have now won 11 straight.

"The teams have played twice before, with the Raiders winning both of those games. The previous two games have each drawn well over 4,000 fans and with everything at stake in this game, an even larger crowd is expected.

"Kickoff is at 7:00 p.m. on Saturday, August 24, 2013. Gates open at 5:30 p.m.

"HISTORIC HORLICK ATHLETIC FIELD
Historic Horlick Athletic Field is located at 1648 North Memorial Drive in Racine, Wis. The field has been home to the Racine Belles, immortalized in the movie 'A League of Their Own,' and the Horlick-Racine Legion, a team that played against the Green Bay Packers and Chicago Bears in the National Football League in the early-1920s. The Chicago Bears played their first game as the Chicago Bears at Historic Horlick Athletic Field.

"TICKET INFORMATION
Tickets are $8 for adults, $6 for senior citizens and $4 for students. Veterans with appropriate identification are admitted free to all Racine Raiders home games. Tickets are also available at nine ticket outlets across Racine. A list of these ticket outlets is available on the Racine Raiders website at http://racineraiders.com/tickets.php.

"PARKING
Free parking is available in two parking lots outside Historic Horlick Athletic Field. In addition, free street parking is available around the field. Tailgating is allowed in the parking lots around the field.

"RACINE RAIDERS PRACTICES
The Racine Raiders hold practices every Tuesday and Thursday night. Practices begin at 7:00 p.m. and the practice field is just two blocks west of Historic Horlick Athletic Field, on High Street.

"WHY BATTLE OF BELLE CITY?
Belle is a French word that means beautiful, as in the phrase 'Belle of the ball.' Sailors in the 19th century called Racine the belle city of the lakes, or the most beautiful city on the Great Lakes.

"The Racine Raiders, a 501c(3) not-for-profit organization, begin their 61st season of operations in 2013. The Raiders won their eighth national championship in 2012. Find out more about the Racine Raiders at http://www.racineraiders.com."

"RAIDERS SPECIAL TEAMS LEAD WAY TO 22ND STRAIGHT WIN"

"McClelland doesn't throw a touchdown pass for first time in his career with Raiders"
 

"August 17 (RACINE, WIS.) - Racine Raiders head coach Gino Perfetto admitted that special teams was underperforming over the past month and it was something the coaching staff was working to fix. That work paid off Saturday as the Raiders beat the Wauwatosa Spartans, 29-15, in front of nearly 1,400 fans at Historic Horlick Athletic Field in Racine.

"Wauwatosa beat the Raiders in nearly every statistical category. The Spartans held the ball for over 39 minutes and ran 73 plays to the just 44 for the Raiders.

"The difference was the Raiders special teams. With the Spartans leading 3-0 with 11 minutes to play in the second quarter, Brian Newell's 43-yard field goal attempt for the Spartans was short. The Raiders Torie Ruffin fielded the ball eight yards deep in the end zone and brought it out, running down the Raiders sideline for a touchdown. Joel DaPra's extra point was good and the Raiders led 7-3.

"Wauwatosa fired right back as JuJuan Zolicoffer slipped by Raiders defensive back Steve Kleist and caught a 78-yard touchdown pass from Tony Henner. The Newell extra point was blocked but the Spartans led 9-7.

"The Raiders put together a 9-play, 53-yard drive, getting to the Spartans 27 yard line. DaPra booted a 45-yard field goal to give the Raiders a 10-9 lead with 5:52 to play in the half.

"Less than three minutes later, the Raiders struck again when J.R. Taylor punched the ball in from one-yard out. The touchdown was setup by a nice pass from Craig McClelland to Sam D'Alie. The Raiders led 17-9.

"Just like the last meeting between the two teams, the Spartans would score right before the half. Henner hit Greg Rebella for a 15-yard touchdown. The Spartans tried to tie the game going into the half but the two-point conversion pass from Henner fell incomplete. The Raiders took a 17-15 lead into halftime.

"Neither team would score in the third quarter but the Raiders would get on the board with 13:03 to play in the fourth quarter. Taylor, who was held to just six yards on five carries, carried the ball twice on the drive for 34 yards, including a 22-yard touchdown run to give the Raiders a 23-15 lead.

"DaPra added two late field goals from 23 and 30 yards to solidify the Raiders victory, 29-15.

"McClelland didn't throw a touchdown pass in the game for the first time in his Raiders career, a total of 20 straight games. McClelland completed 8 passes in 17 attempts for 181 yards. Taylor finished the game with 74 yards on the ground and two touchdowns. Traves Worthington was the leading receiver for the Raiders with 2 catches for 41 yards.

"The win sets up a battle for the Southwest Division title next week as the Raiders host the Racine Threat. Both teams are 8-0 overall, 6-0 in the Mid-States Football League and 3-0 in the division. The Threat narrowly beat the Roscoe Rush, 30-27, Saturday night in Kenosha, Wis.

"The Racine Raiders, a 501c(3) not-for-profit organization, begin their 61st season of operations in 2013. The Raiders won their eighth national championship in 2012. Find out more about the Racine Raiders at http://www.racineraiders.com."

"MCCLELLAND, DAPRA TIE LEAGUE RECORDS AS RAIDERS WIN 20TH STRAIGHT GAME"

"McClelland Passes for 7 TDs in 1st Half; DaPra Converts 10 Extra Points"
 

"August 3 (GREENDALE, WIS.) - Racine Raiders quarterback Craig McClelland and kicker Joel DaPra tied Mid-States Football League records in a 73-0 rout of the Milwaukee Venom in Greendale, Wis., on Saturday night.

"McClelland tossed seven touchdown passes, all in the first half, to join Brandon Benda of the now defunct McHenry County Pirates in the MSFL record book. Benda set the record in 2009.

"Meanwhile, DaPra took advantage of the offensive explosion and connected on all ten of his extra point attempts, joining Dave Clawson of the Indiana Generals and T.J. Hearn of the Racine Threat for the most extra point attempts and extra point attempts made in league history in one game. Clawson and Hearn both had ten in 2011.

"McClelland completed 9 of 12 passes for 164 yards and threw touchdown passes to five different receivers. He completed a pass to six different receivers on the night.

"Meanwhile, DaPra also connect on a 35-yard field goal in the game and missed a 48-yard field goal wide right.

"The Raiders led 70-0 at the half. McClelland threw two touchdown passes each to Sam D'Alie and Dorian Palmer. Traves Worthington, Dom Kegel and John Sterba each had one touchdown reception.

"J.R. Taylor, who saw limited action in the blowout, rushed for a touchdown in the first half. he finished with six carried for 28 yards. Rookie Ivry Lashley led all Raiders with 43 yards on the ground on just four carries. He had a 17-yard touchdown run late in the first half.

"The only other score for the Raiders came on a 60-yard interception return by Nate Heard late in the first quarter.

"The Raiders defense forced five turnovers and held the Venom to 0-11 on third down conversions and 0-2 on fourth down conversions.

"The Venom had negative total yards until Torrick Wright broke off a long run on their last drive of the game. The Venom got within one inch of scoring their first points in a game they lost this season but the Raiders defense stopped them to secure the shutout. The Venom have now been shutout five times this season.

"The Raiders improve to 6-0 on the season and 4-0 in the MSFL with the win and extend their winning streak to 20 games. Racine ends a month-long road trip next week in Madison, Wis., against the Monona Warriors (3-3, 1-3 MSFL).

"The Racine Raiders, a 501c(3) not-for-profit organization, begin their 61st season of operations in 2013. The Raiders won their eighth national championship in 2012. Find out more about the Racine Raiders at http://www.racineraiders.com."

"RAIDERS RUNNING ATTACK PAVES WAY TO VICTORY"

"Racine Extends Winning Streak to 18 Games"

"July 22 (WILLIAMS BAY, WIS.) - The Racine Raiders were without regular starting quarterback Craig McClelland and wide receiver Dorian Palmer on Saturday night against the Lake Geneva Generals in Williams Bay, Wis. The running game picked up the slack and led the Raiders to a 44-29 win.

"The Raiders rushed for 332 yards on 36 carries, a 9.2 yard per carry average, and four touchdowns. Running back J.R. Taylor led the way with 19 rushes for 134 yards and a touchdown. Dom Kegel, filling in for McClelland at quarterback, had several electrifying runs en route to 133 yards on 11 carries and three touchdowns. Kegel also passed for one touchdown in the game.

"The Raiders moved backwards on their first drive of the game, losing 26 yards due mainly to a holding penalty and a sack. The Generals started their first drive in Raiders territory but Sir G Albrittin's second pass attempt of the game was intercepted by Raiders linebacker Nate Harris. Harris has now recorded an interception in three of the last four games, dating back to the 2010 Semi-Pro BCS national championship game in November.

"The Raiders marched down the field. On fourth-and-one at the Generals 23-yard line, Kegel took the snap and moved the pile forward for five yards but his helmet came off. On the next play, Taylor, playing quarterback, took the snap and ran for a touchdown but the play was called back on a holding penalty on fullback Marcus Baskin.

"With Kegel back in the game, Taylor punched out a two-yard run before Kegel ran the ball in from 23 yards out for the first score. The DaPra extra point was good and the Raiders led 7-0 with 5:26 to play in the first quarter. The drive went 60 yards on 10 plays and took 6:15.

"The Generals marched the ball into Raiders territory on the ensuing drive but stalled at the Raiders 45-yard line. Mike O'Brien punted the ball to Damonshay Pitt and Pitt broke several tackles, returning the punt 62 yards to the Lake Geneva 25-yard line.

"The Raiders gave the ball to Taylor on three straight plays and Taylor eventually reached the ball across the goal line on a seven-yard run. The DaPra kick was deflected at the line but went through to give the Raiders a 14-0 lead with 12 minutes to play in the first half.

"DaPra booted the kickoff high in the air and while several Generals watched the ball hit the ground without trying to grab it, Ross Toeller was able to pick it up for the Raiders, setting Racine up with the ball at the Lake Geneva 35-yard line.

"On the second play of the drive, Kegel, under pressure, rolled out to his right and found tight end Traves Worthington wide open for a touchdown. It was Worthington's third catch of the season and his third touchdown. The DaPra kick was good and the Raiders led 21-0 with 11:14 to play in the first half.

"Lake Geneva answered on their next drive, going 77 yards on 11 plays in 7:45. Albrittin hit Scott Torkelson on a one-yard pass and the Raiders lead was cut to 21-7 with 3:24 to play in the half.

"The Raiders responded right back as Kegel led the Raiders 86 yards on just seven plays, culminating in a 16-yard touchdown run by Kegel and the Raiders would take a 28-7 lead into halftime.

"The Generals came roaring back in the second half, outscoring the Raiders 14-3 in the third quarter, and trailing by just ten points heading into the final quarter. The third quarter marked the first time this season that the Raiders were outscored in a quarter.

"The Raiders slammed the door in the fourth quarter. Kegel had a 49-yard touchdown run and Torie Ruffin intercepted an Albrittin pass and returned it 74 yards for a touchdown to give Racine a 44-21 lead midway through the final quarter.

"The Generals scored one more time with under two minutes to play and completed the two-point conversion but they had no time outs remaining and couldn't recover an onside kick, giving the Raiders the 44-29 win.

"The Raiders extended their winning streak to 18 games and improved to 4-0 on the season and 2-0 in the Mid-States Football League (MSFL). The Generals lost their fifth straight game dating back to 2012 and fell to 0-4 overall and 0-2 in the MSFL.

"The Raiders have a division bye next week. The next game for Racine is Saturday, August 3, 2013, against the Milwaukee Venom (1-3, 0-1 MSFL) at Stephen J. Gavinski Stadium on the Greendale High School campus in Greendale, Wis. The game begins at 7 p.m. CT.

"The Racine Raiders, a 501c(3) not-for-profit organization, begin their 61st season of operations in 2013. The Raiders won their eighth national championship in 2012. Find out more about the Racine Raiders at http://www.racineraiders.com."

"RACINE RAIDERS EXTEND WIN STREAK TO 17 GAMES"

"Raiders Beat Madison Mustangs, 51-33, in Rivalry Renewed After Nearly 40 Years"

"July 14 (RACINE) - The Racine Raiders (3-0, 1-0 MSFL) extended the team's winning streak to 17 games against a team that is used to winning, the Madison Mustangs (0-1, 0-1 MSFL) in front of 1,458 fans at Historic Horlick Athletic Field in Racine Saturday night..

"The Mustangs won 54 straight games before losing in the Ironman Football League championship game last season and have now lost two straight for the first time since at least 2007. It was the first time the two franchises played since October 12, 1974, when Racine beat Madison using a second half comeback.

"The Raiders gave the Mustangs defense a heavy dose of running back J.R. Taylor early on and it paid off as Taylor had 12 carries for 116 yards and 3 touchdowns at the half and the Raiders led 21-6 going into the locker room.

"The teams combined to put up 41 points in the third quarter. Raiders quarterback Craig McClelland started to heat up in the second half, tossing three touchdowns to three different receivers in the third quarter.

"David Pietrowiak and the Mustangs kept pace, however, as Petrowiak also threw three touchdowns in the third quarter, including a 20-yard pass to Austin Ryan as the clock expired to pull Madison to within 16 points heading into the final quarter.

"The Raiders controlled the ball for nearly seven minutes to open the fourth quarter and got a 30-yard field goal from Joel DaPra to extend their lead 45-26.

"Racine would turn Pietrowiak's third interception of the game into another touchdown on a 9-yard run by Ivry Lashley, the rookie's first touchdown as a Raider, and increased lead to 25 points with 4:30 to play.

"Madison scored one more touchdown, this one a defensive touchdown. Raiders running back Floyd Underwood never got the handle on a handoff from McClelland and coughed it up right into the hands of Noah Williams who returned it 60 yards for a touchdown to make the final score 51-33 in favor of Racine.

"Pietrowiak set a Madison record with 381 yards passing. He threw for four touchdowns but also had three passes intercepted and lost a fumble. Taylor finished with 145 yards and the 3 touchdowns. McClelland threw for 176 yards and 3 touchdowns.

"The Raiders hit the road until August 7. They head to Williams Bay High School to play the Lake Geneva Generals next week. The Raiders are 3-0 all-time against Lake Geneva. The game will be broadcast on News/Talk 1400 AM WRJN beginning with the pregame show at 6:45 p.m. CT.

"The Racine Raiders, a 501c(3) not-for-profit organization, begin their 61st season of operations in 2013. The Raiders won their eighth national championship in 2012. Find out more about the Racine Raiders at http://www.racineraiders.com."

"RACINE RAIDERS HIT THE GAS IN SECOND HALF"

"Defense forces six turnovers in 16th stratight win"

"July 7 (RACINE) - The Racine Raiders (2-0 overall, 0-0 MSFL) scored on their first drive of 2013 but then stalled through the rest of the first half, taking a 7-0 lead into halftime and eventually coasting to a 31-6 win over the Lima Warriors (4-4, 4-2 HFL) Saturday night at Historic Horlick Athletic Field in Racine, Wis.

"The defense put the pedal to the metal in the second half, forcing turnovers on each of the Warriors first two drives and turning those turnovers into ten points and a 17-0 lead just over three minutes into the second half.

"Lima cut into the Raiders lead when Jeremy Bott scored on a six-yard run that capped a 12 play, 7-0-yard drive with 4:46 to play in the third quarter.

"With a 17-6 lead, running back J.R. Taylor broke the game open on a 57-yard touchdown run with 10:08 to play in the game. The Joel DaPra extra point gave the Raiders a 24-6 lead.

"Defensive back Ross Toeller put an exclamation point on the win when he picked off a pass that was deflected by Eric Feest and returned it 55 yard for a score.

"The Raiders had five interceptions off of two different Lima quarterbacks and recovered a fumble in the first half.

"The Raiders remain flawless against teams from Ohio, improving to 25-0 all-time. In addition, they extended their winning streak to 16 games, the longest streak since the Raiders won 23 games between 1994 and 1995.

"The Raiders host the Madison Mustangs next week in the opening weekend of the 2013 Mid-States Football League season. The Mustangs came over from the Ironman Football League (IFL) in the offseason. They had won five IFL championships.

"The Mustangs own the all-time series record against the Raiders, 11-5 and are 5-3 at Historic Horlick Athletic Field. The teams last played in 1974, with the Raiders beating the Mustangs, 23-10.

"The game starts at 7 p.m. If you can't make it, catch the Raiders broadcast on WRJN 1400 AM with the pregame show beginning at 6:45 p.m.

"Tickets are available at nine local outlets or the Historic Horlick Athletic Field box office. Ticket prices are $8 for adults, $6 for senior citizens and $4 for school age children. Military veterans receive free admission when in uniform or by showing proper identification.

"The Racine Raiders, a 501c(3) not-for-profit organization, begin their 61st season of operations in 2013. The Raiders won their eighth national championship in 2012. Find out more about the Racine Raiders at http://www.racineraiders.com."

"RACINE RAIDERS BEGIN DEFENSE OF NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP SATURDAY NIGHT"

Special Ceremony Will Honor 2012 National Championship Team

"June 26 (RACINE) - The Racine Raiders open their 2013 season, their 61st year, on Saturday, June 29, 2013, against the South Dakota Stallions at Historic Horlick Athletic Field. Kickoff is at 7:00 p.m.

"The Raiders won the 2012 Semi-Pro BCS National Championship in 2012. It was the eighth national championship in team history and the first since 2001. The Raiders beat the Nashville Storm, 38-24, on November 10, 2012, in front of nearly 4,000 fans.

"The Raiders return much of the 2013 national championship team, including quarterback Craig McClelland, running back J.R. Taylor and receivers Dorian Palmer and Sam D'Alie and tight end Traves Worthington. Joining the receiving corps is Dom Kegel. Kegel, a standout quarterback in European pro leagues, will shift to the outside and become a target for McClelland. The offensive line remains intact with a couple of additions that will supply depth.

"Most of the defense also returns from 2012. The key loss is cornerback David Earl who moved out-of-state in the offseason. However, Nate Heard, a cornerback that excelled at UW-Oshkosh and UW-Milwaukee, joins the squad. The team also added depth at defensive line and linebacker.

"The Stallions, a third year team and members of the Midwest Football Alliance (MFA), are 4-2 overall and 4-1 in the MFA on the season. They trail the Des Moines Blaze, the only team that handed the Raiders a loss last season, by one game.

"The Stallions are led by quarterback Derrick Singleton. Singleton has tossed eight touchdowns and thrown just two interceptions this season.

"Sioux Falls has two running backs that are averaging over six yards per carry in Ricky Gutierrez and Darieon Smith. Gutierrez is also tied for the team lead in receptions and is averaging over 22 yards per catch out of the backfield.

"On the receiving end, Antonio Berry is the top outside target while Khalid Waters is the the deep threat, averaging over 35 yards per catch with three touchdowns.

"On defense, Jordan Bouw is among the team leaders with 21 tackles and leads the team with 4-1/2 sacks. James Augustus has a nose for the ball in the secondary, already hauling in five interceptions in just six games.

"The Raiders will have a special trophy and flag ceremony with a speech from City of Racine Mayor John Dickert. The Generation Alive Dance Team and the Racine Raiders Dance and Stunt Team will perform at halftime. Miss Racine, Elise Elmblad, a student at the University of Wisconsin-Parkside will sing the National Anthem.

"The gates at Historic Horlick Athletic Field open at 5:30 p.m. and a band will perform in the beer garden near the concession stand prior to the game.

"Tickets are available at nine local outlets or the Historic Horlick Athletic Field box office. Ticket prices are $8 for adults, $6 for senior citizens and $4 for school age children. Military veterans receive free admission when in uniform or by showing proper identification.

"The Racine Raiders, a 501c(3) not-for-profit organization, begin their 61st season of operations in 2013. The Raiders won their eighth national championship in 2012. Find out more about the Racine Raiders at http://www.racineraiders.com."

"RACINE RAIDERS WILL HOST GRIDIRON CLASSIC YOUTH FOOTBALL SKILLS CAMP"

 

 

Camp will be held on Saturday, June 8, 2013, from noon to 3 p.m. at Horlick Field

"APRIL 22 (RACINE) - The Racine Raiders will hold the Gridiron Classic youth football skills camp on Saturday, June 8, 2013, from noon to 3:00 p.m. at Historic Horlick Athletic Field. The camp is for students entering third through seventh grades and costs $20 with all proceeds going to "Relay for Life" to help fight cancer.

"The Racine Raiders coaching staff will provide qualified instruction. Participants will run through football drills, one-on-one instruction and conclude with a punt, pass and kick contest.

"Participants will get to tour the Racine Raiders locker room and have their photo taken with the 2012 Semi-Pro BCS National Championship trophy.

"Each participant will receive admission to the Saturday, June 29, 2013, Racine Raiders home opener against the Sioux Falls Stallions and a camp t-shirt, as well as a hot dog, chips and soda after the clinic.

"Download the registration form and return by June 1, 2013 to the address listed on the form.

"The Racine Raiders, a 501c(3) not-for-profit organization, begins their 61st season of operations in 2013. The Raiders won their eighth national championship in 2012. Find out more about the Racine Raiders at http://www.racineraiders.com."

"FORMER RACINE ST. CAT'S STANDOUT, JASON DUMONT, SIGNS WITH RACINE RAIDERS"

"(RACINE, WIS.) - Former Racine St. Catherine's High School football standout Jason DuMont has signed with the Racine Raiders for the 2013 season. DuMont lettered in football three times at St. Cat's and participated in basketball, golf and track, helping the Angels win two state titles in basketball.

"The 6' 4", 310-pound offensive lineman graduated from Northern Michigan University in 2011. DuMont started at left guard for three seasons for the Wildcats, serving as the team captain and earning all-Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference honors in his senior season.

"DuMont was a late switch to the offensive line. He played quarterback all through his years in Racine Youth Sports football and through his sophomore season at St. Cat's. He switched to being a lineman, both on offense and defense, in his junior season. In addition, DuMont was the Angels punter.

"He was a first-team All-Racine County and All-Lakeshore Conference selection on the offensive line. He also earned All-Lakeshore Conference first-team honors as a punter and was an honorable mention selection on the defensive line.

"'Jason has great mobility for a big man,' said Raiders head coach Gino Perfetto. 'He's extremely versatile which will allow us to feature him in key situations.'

"DuMont made visits to several colleges and universities before choosing Northern Michigan, including Minnesota State-Mankato, Winona State and St. Norbert's. Northern Michigan was so impressed with DuMont that the NCAA Division II school actually offered him a partial scholarship on his visit.

"DuMont and his parents, Danny and Gerianne, have deep roots in the Racine community. The DuMont's recently opened Dewey's Restaurant and Sports Bar in downtown Racine."

For more information on the Racine Raiders, please visit http://www.racineraiders.com. For more information on playing for the defending national champions, please visit http://www.playfortheraiders.com.
High resolution image of Jason DuMont
Web-optimized image of Jason DuMont

"RACINE RAIDERS SIGN FORMER GREENVILLE COLLEGE STANDOUT, DOM KEGEL"

"(RACINE, WIS.) - The Racine Raiders are pleased to announce that former Greenville College quarterback Dom Kegel has signed with the team for the 2013 season. Kegel was a standout player at Greenville College before playing football in Europe.

"'It's an honor to have this opportunity and contribute to the level of excellence this club has maintained for decades,' said Kegel. 'The Raider family has already been a blessing to me; I hope I can bless them in return.'

Kegel was a 1st Team All-Conference selection in 2006 and 2007 and was named Conference Player of the Year in 2007. He was a National Christian College Athletic Association (NCCAA) All-American and ranked in the top 25 in the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) in all-purpose yards in 2007. He was a seven-time conference player of the week.

After his stellar career at Greenville College, Kegel quarterbacked the Basel Gladiators to the Swiss Championship in 2009. Following his championship season in Switzerland, Kegel worked out for several teams in 2010, including teams in the National Football League (NFL) and Canadian Football League (CFL) before playing indoor football for the Omaha Beef in 2011.

"Kegel again flew across the Atlantic Ocean in 2012 to play for the Seinajoki Crocodiles in the Finnish Maple League, the highest of four American football leagues in Finland. He navigated the Crocodiles to a 9-2 record and the semi-final game. He was named the Maple League Most Valuable Player.

“'I’m thrilled to welcome Dom to our football team,' said head coach Gino Perfetto. 'Not only does he possess great football skills but he’s a young man of high character and will be a great addition to the organization.'"

For more information on the Racine Raiders, please visit http://www.racineraiders.com. 
For more information on playing for the defending national champions, please visit http://www.playfortheraiders.com.

RACINE RAIDERS ANNOUNCE 2012 INDIVIDUAL AWARDS

"Seven different Racine Raiders players, head coach Gino Perfetto and one volunteer were recognized for their efforts during the team's historic 2012 national championship season at the annual team banquet held on Saturday, February 9, 2012, at Infusino's Banquet Hall in Racine.

"The player awards were voted on by the players as part of an anonymous vote held near the end of the season. The following awards were given out Saturday night:

• Most Valuable Player: Quarterback Craig McClelland
• Offensive Player of the Year: Quarterback Craig McClelland
• Defensive Player of the Year: Linebacker Nate Harris
• Special Teams Player of the Year: Kicker/Punter Joel DaPra
• Offensive Lineman of the Year: Ronald Lollis
• Defensive Lineman of the Year: Larry Williams
• Rookie of the Year: Quarterback Craig McClelland

"The board of directors also named Raiders radio broadcaster and webmaster, Don Wadewitz, as the volunteer of the year. It's the second time Wadewitz was named volunteer of the year in his decade with the team.

"In addition to the team-specific awards, two awards were also presented to individual players for their efforts in the Semi-Pro BCS national championship game. Running back J.R. Taylor was named the offensive most valuable player and defensive lineman Ardray Jarrett received defensive most valuable player. The Semi-Pro BCS Committee named Gino Perfetto as the National Coach of the Year.

"Board of directors president Matthew Snyder also unveiled two additional team trophies. The  Mid-States Football League (MSFL) presented the Raiders with trophies for winning the team's division and conference.

"The banquet was attended by over 40 players, dozens of volunteers, board members and coaches as well as their spouses and significant others. Snyder served as emcee for the evening and City of Racine Mayor John Dickert attended and spoke at the event.

"The evening also included a short recap of the 60-year history of the team as well as the 2012 national championship season. Barry Tait of Tait Media showed a 15 minute highlight video of the Semi-Pro BCS National Championship game. Players, staff and volunteers were also given an embroidered fleece blanket.

Download full-size color photo of award winners

Download web-optimized color photo of award winners

"PHOTO CREDIT: Tom Christensen, Racine Raiders

PICTURED IN PHOTO (L-R): Don Wadewitz, J.R. Taylor, Nate Harris, Craig McClelland, Ardray Jarrett, Ronald Lollis, Gino Perfetto, Joel DaPra (Not Pictured: Larry Williams)

  

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

NATIONAL CHAMPION RACINE RAIDERS ANNOUNCE 2013 TRYOUT DATES

(RACINE) - The 2012 Semi-Pro BCS National Champion Racine Raiders have organized three tryout dates for prospective players looking to join the best team in adult minor league football in 2013. All three tryouts are free and will be held at the Tarble Recreation Center on the Carthage College campus in Kenosha, Wis.

The tryout dates and times are:

• Saturday, January 19, 2013, from 9:00 a.m. to noon
• Sunday, February 24, 2013, from 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
• Saturday, March 23, 2013, from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.

Registration will begin at 8:00 a.m. for all three tryouts.

The organization requests that prospective players pre-register on the Play for the Raiders recruitment website at http://www.playfortheraiders.com.

The Raiders will begin their 61st season of operations and have won eight national championships. Players are treated to free postgame meals following each home game, receive complimentary tickets to games and get to play in front of an average of nearly 2,000 fans at home games. The team broadcasts all of their games on WRJN 1400 AM and online. Several other benefits are available to players as well.
 
For more information on the Racine Raiders, please visit http://www.racineraiders.com

RACINE MAYOR TO DECLARE DECEMBER 10, 2012, AS "RACINE RAIDERS DAY"

"(RACINE) - City of Racine Mayor John Dickert will read a special proclamation on Tuesday, December 4, 2012, during the Common Council meeting declaring Monday, December 10, 2012, as "Racine Raiders Day" in the City of Racine. The proclamation will be read at Racine City Hall (730 Washington Avenue), room 205, at 7:00 p.m. CT.

"This will be in recognition of the accomplishments of the 2012 Racine Raiders organization. The team finished the season with a 15-1 record and went 11-0 in the Mid-States Football League (MSFL). The Raiders won the MSFL championship.

"The Raiders then participated in the Midwest Football Tournament, beating the Ironman Football League champion Wauwatosa Spartans and winning the tournament championship. The Raiders then hosted the Nashville Storm, winners of the National Football Association championship, for the Semi-Pro BCS National Championship, which the Raiders won 38-24 in front of nearly 3,500 fans.

"The national championship was the eighth in the 60-year history of the Raiders but the first since 2001.

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

"WELLS BROTHERS PIZZA HOST FUNDRAISER FOR RACINE RAIDERS"

"(RACINE) - Two institutions that combined have served the Racine community for over 150 years are teaming up on Saturday, December 1, 2012, for a fundraiser. Wells Brothers Pizza, located at 2148 Mead Street in Racine, are hosting a fundraiser for the 2012 Semi-Pro BCS national champion Racine Raiders.

"Wells Brothers Pizza will donate a percentage of sales between 11:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m. on Saturday, December 1, 2012, to the Racine Raiders organization. This applies to dine-in and carryout orders. Wells Brothers Pizza is recommending that patrons make reservations if they plan to dine-in by calling (262) 632-4408.

"The 2012 Semi-Pro BCS national championship trophy will be on display at Wells Brothers Restaurant during the event. In addition, Racine Raiders quarterback Craig McClelland (UW-Oshkosh), running back J.R. Taylor (Eastern Illinois University, Green Bay Packers) and defensive end Brandon Rogers (Tennessee State University) will sign autographs from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Everyone who visits Wells Brothers Pizza during the time the three players are there will receive free, limited-edition collector's cards of the three players.

"ABOUT WELLS BROTHERS PIZZA"

"Since 1921, Wells Brothers has been preparing Italian dishes utilizing the same recipes passed down through the generations — all using fresh, high quality ingredients. Wells Brothers has received numerous awards throughout the years including being named the #6 pizza in the nation in the book 'Everybody Loves Pizza' co-authored by Chicago food critic Penny Pollack.

"ABOUT THE RACINE RAIDERS"

"The Racine Raiders capped the team's 60th season of operation with the eighth national championship in team history, defeating the Nashville Storm, 38-24, in front of nearly 3,500 fans at Historic Horlick Athletic Field in Racine on Saturday, November 10. The team is a 501c(3) not-for-profit organization that is organized very similarly as the Green Bay Packers of the National Football League (no single owner; run by a board of directors). The team averaged nearly 2,000 fans at each home game during the 2012 campaign."

 

http://www.racineraiders.com/

http://www.wellsbrosracine.com/