ROCKINGHAM — The Richmond Senior High School football team participated in its first day of full pads Wednesday, just one step closer to football returning to Friday nights in Richmond County.
The familiar sounds of pads cracking and bodies colliding filled the air as the varsity, junior varsity and freshman teams battled the early morning humidity. Also joining the Raiders were several high school officials, who were on hand to discuss new rule changes and information regarding the upcoming season.
One of the major rule changes is a new 40-second game clock, which replaces the 25-second clock used in the past. This rule change was approved by the North Carolina High School Athletic Association.
Third-year head coach Bryan Till and the Raiders will also hold an open practice Thursday inside Raider Stadium, beginning with junior varsity at 6:30 p.m., followed by varsity at 7 p.m. The practice will be open to the public to give Raider Nation some insight on how the team has progressed throughout the summer.
Also on display will be the new Musco Lighting LED stadium lights, installed last month. The more energy-efficient lights have the ability to change colors, something Till has noted as giving the stadium a more unique representation of the Raider program. The 40-second play clock, along with officials, will be present to help the Raiders familiarize themselves with the changes.
In this edition of Raider Video Chats, Till opens by talking about the first day of pads, as well as more details about the open practice. The Raider defense, which Till is also the defensive coordinator, is featured, welcoming in seniors Javon Little (defensive end), Joerail White (middle linebacker) and D’Marcus Harrington (cornerback).
Bryan Till, head coach and defensive coordinator (click photo for video)
Javon Little, senior defensive end
Little got some reps in a as a junior last fall, but he also dealt with an injury. This season he plays a big role on a revamped defensive line, and is hoping to bring a lot of energy. He’s also a vocal leader on the defense, and he explains how that positive vibe will better his teammates. (click photo for video)
Joerail White, senior middle linebacker
White missed his entire junior season with a knee injury, but this year he’s 100 percent and ready to prove himself. In his video, White talks about the first day of pads, as well as what fans can expect out of the linebacking group this fall. (click photo for video)
D’Marcus Harrington, senior cornerback
Harrington has already received five college offers ahead of his senior season, including ones from Liberty University and Campbell University. With the potential to play college ball on the table, he talks about how those offers are motivating him during early-season practices. (click photo for video)
ROSports will have full coverage of Richmond’s open practice on Thursday.
