Written By: Sven Alskog
Getting stronger and faster this offseason was a main focus for the Rimrock Raiders, who return a good chunk of the roster from last year.
It will not be an easy task in the 1A Western Idaho Conference this season, with both Idaho City and Wilder looking to remain strong.
Leading the way for Rimrock will be returning All-Conference players Ian Burbank at running back and Nick Lino at defensive end. Michael Nanney and Lance Smith are a couple of other notable returners.
“I’m most excited about the growth of our core players coming back from last season’s team. Mike Nanney will be taking over the quarterback duties from Todd Marvin and Ian Burbank will continue to build off a great 2018 season. Nick Lino will be moving all over the field for us and Lance Smith will be our quarterback of our offensive line,” said head coach Mark Martell.
There is a clear focus for improvement on the offensive side of the ball according to the coach.
“Improving our passing game and getting our young players up to speed in our offense and [also] staying healthy throughout the season.”
Lino, Burbank, Nanney and Smith all lead the way on defense, with some new pieces surrounding them.
“We have new faces in the middle of our defense with Todd Marvin graduating last spring, but all of these guys have been a big part of our defense since I took over the program in 2017,” added Martell.
Working hard and competing on every play are some strengths for the Raiders, with Alex Martinez and Nanney a couple of the players who have made major strides in the offseason.
Rimrock starts 2019 on August 30 with a road contest just up the road at Glenns Ferry.