CANFIELD, OH- In a season already packed with highs and lows, the South Range Raiders, led by head coach Dave Rach, prepare to kick off their Northeast Eight Conference (NEA) play tonight against the formidable Lakeview Bulldogs. This game comes on the back of a notable victory over Barberton, a Division II powerhouse, which was a significant confidence booster for the Division V Raiders.

Coach Rach’s pride in his team’s ability to control both the offensive and defensive lines was evident in his interview with YSN’s DJ Yokley. “That’s the biggest part of what we do,” Rach said, acknowledging the hard work and improvements from his players over the past weeks.

Despite the confidence from their recent triumph, Rach emphasized the need to treat each upcoming game as a new chapter. “Every game is our Super Bowl… we have to make sure we prepare for it as if it’s a championship game,” he said, aware of the challenges ahead in the NEA, where they are the defending champions.

While the Raiders are wary of being distracted by the long-term schedule, Lakeview presents an immediate and real challenge. The Bulldogs come into tonight’s game undefeated and in peak form, having surrendered only six points all season. Rach respects their resilience and skill, noting their strong defensive stats and explosive potential on special teams.

The Raiders have shown their prowess in all facets of the game, from leading defensive shutouts to setting school records in special teams, as exemplified by Luke Starkey’s record-breaking 45-yard field goal last week. However, the team is aware that each game brings new hurdles.

Beyond the gridiron battles, the South Range community has recently faced deep emotional challenges with the loss of influential community figures. Coach Rach emphasized the importance of family, unity, and support in tough times, urging his players to “help kids win in the game of life just as much as in the game of football.”

A heartening moment was highlighted as the team rallied around Robby Myers, whose mother recently passed away. Myers’ interception return in a youth football game became a symbol of perseverance and the tight-knit Raider community.

As South Range gears up for what promises to be a tough four-quarter fight against Lakeview, Coach Rach and his Raiders are more united and determined than ever.

Tonight’s showdown will be a litmus test for the Raiders’ readiness to defend their NEA crown—and a testament to their unyielding spirit both on and off the field.

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