By Molly Seales
Despite the recent departure of Coach Jared Smelser as he goes to PVA to coach and be their athletic director, the Riverdale Rebel football team isn’t letting up to prepare for next season. The guys have been doing workouts on their own, and official workouts begin Monday, June 12. The guys are geared up, excited, and ready to go!
Despite losing five seniors, the Rebels return a solid core of starters, including senior 1st team all-district offensive lineman, district defensive MVP and All MSAIS defensive tackle Hayden Hillman and senior first team all-district running back/defensive lineman and All MSAIS running back Kyle Guillory. The Rebels also return senior first team all-district quarterback/athlete Ryder Huddleston and senior first team all-district defensive lineman Landen Barrett. Look for 2nd team all-district senior offensive lineman Jaxon Gates and 2nd team all-district sophomore linebacker Ashton Almond to factor in big for the Rebels. Another player to watch is junior Kaidyn Williams who became a force to reckon with in the playoffs. Williams is a very versatile player at linebacker, running back, and receiver. Riverdale also has some outstanding upcoming underclassmen.
Senior Hayden Hillman had this to say about the upcoming season: “Even though we are losing a head coach, I think it’s going to be a great year. The Rebels always manage to adapt to whatever is thrown our way. We are going to continue to work hard and are hungry for a state championship.” The 2023 schedule has been released, and a highlight is senior night/homecoming on October 13. This year the Rebels will be playing hard for their “Mimi” Debbie Johnson who entered the gates of Heaven on May 28 after a courageous five-year battle with cancer.
Good luck to our Rebels as they work hard this summer and prepare for a wonderful 2023 season!
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