After a dominant run in The Eastern Wisconsin Conference that included back-to-back undefeated championship seasons, the Two Rivers begin play in the Northeast Conference tonight as they had to Appleton to meet the Fox Valley Lutheran Foxes.
Head Coach Kevin Shillcox says they can’t wait to get started.
“We had a good summer and have had a real good preseason camp,” he tells Seehafer News. “We are ready to get after it with this group of guys. They’ve prepared to the best of their ability and wait to play football tonight.”
The Raiders have two noteworthy holes to fill.
Chase Matthias, who ran for over 6,000 yards and over 100 touchdowns the last four years, is playing collegiately at Bemidji State in Minnesota, while quarterback Justin Klinker is now at UW-Whitewater after throwing 24 touchdowns and only two interceptions for the Raiders a year ago.
Shillcox says the cupboard in Two Rivers is not bare.
“We’re solid as we’ve brought back lots of guys on both sides of the ball,” he said. “The defense has looked good thus far, and the offense has held their own.”
Noah Shillcox takes over at quarterback, while Max Matthias will be the featured back in the Raiders’ potent offense.
Senior Christian Pyles is expected to have a huge year at tight end, and senior kicker Daniel Karlin might be the best-kept secret in all of Wisconsin football.
He returns after making 72 of 73 extra points last season.
Shillcox adds the Foxes start a gauntlet of opponents that will test the resolve.
“We know what we’re up against,” he noted. ‘We’ve done our homework and are looking forward to a good game tonight.”
Kickoff in Appleton is set for 7:00 p.m.
