RAEFORD — The Richmond Senior football team came in second, behind Scotland, in both the media and coaches preseason poll Sunday at the Southeastern Conference’s media day at Bayonet Golf Course at Puppy Creek.
Pinecrest, Lumberton, Purnell Swett and Hoke rounded out the last four spots in the preseason rankings — the exact same order each team finished the 2015 season.
Seniors Steven Jones and Antoine Shaw accompanied coaches Mike Castellano and Steve Burdeau to the event and say they are looking forward to the upcoming season.
“I feel like if we keep going 1-0 every day like Coach C says, we’ll go pretty far this season,” Shaw said. “I think we have a lot more drive — people want to play and want to make it further into the season.”
Shaw, an offensive lineman, will also spend time on the defensive line, as he hopes that his production on both sides can garner him an all-conference selection at season’s end.
“I think I’m going to do good playing on both sides,” Shaw added. “I’m trying to make all-conference, because I didn’t make it last year.”
Jones’ versatility will allow him to impact all three aspects of the game. His natural position is a defensive back, however, Jones will also line up at wide receiver and play a huge part on special teams.
“I’m trying to get all-conference again this year,” Jones said with a smile. “I like the way our defense is looking right now…We’ve just got to keep everybody on their stuff.”
The Raiders are now turning their attention to the scrimmages that will be held at Richmond Senior’s practice field Wednesday, Aug. 10, at 10 a.m.
Cleveland, Millbrook, Reagan, St. Pauls and Union Pines will all be competing and there is a $3 admission fee for the public.
Reach sports editor Leon Hargrove Jr. at 910-817-2673 and follow the sports section on Twitter @RCDailySports.