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 News Archives |
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Saturday, January 26
RHINOS TO ANNOUNCE 2008 PLANS BY FEBRUARY 1ST
With much speculation about whether the Rhino-Raiders will return for their 10th season, the team will announce their intentions for the upcoming season by Friday, February 1st. With the retirement of reigning RMFL MVP Dave Stireman, who has led his team to an unprecedented 8 straight league championships, it has widely been thought that many of the longtime Rhinos would retire as well. There is also speculation that many Rhinos will make up the bulk of the fledging Utah Saints indoor team roster this spring.
With the 2008 RMFL meeting scheduled for Friday and Saturday, February 1-2, the Rhinos will either be in attendance, planning to field a team this year, or not.
Tuesday, October 23
LEARNING FROM EXPERIENCE, RHINOS END 2007 SEASON WITH WIN OVER BEARS
The Rhino-Raiders have announced that they will not participate in this years FWFA Tourney. Citing several reasons, including time-off between games and relatively no open Saturday's between now and the December 8th title game, the Rhinos wrap up their highly successful 2007 season with an overall record of 11-2 and their 8th straight league championship.
The Rhinos expect to return for their 10th season in 2008 and it will be with a new quarterback as Dave Stireman has officially retired. Stireman will run the team and handle all administrative duties.
The Rhinos will announce their new quarterback/offensive coordinator soon.
Monday, July 16
PHIPPEN NAMED TOP AAA DEFENDER
Jake Phippen was named the RMFL AAA Defensive MVP after helping lead Rhinos, including their #1 rated defense, to their 4th straight RMFL Championship (8th straight league title overall. Phippen's 9.5 sacks led all RMFL defenders.
Also, QB Dave Stireman was voted the overall AAA MVP.
Friday, August 3
RHINOS GATHER MLFN AWARDS
Once again, the Rhino-Raiders are recognized by the Minor League Football News on the 2007 Western Region All America team. Here are the award winners:
Offensive Player of the Year - Justin Oswald
Coach of the Year - Dave Stireman
1st team:
RB Justin Oswald, WR Damon Greenberry, OL Nate Baptist, DB Jay Tupe & LB Levine Tupe
2nd team:
Justin DeFour
3rd team:
Eric Christiansen
Congratulations to all.
Sunday, July 8
RHINOS OUTCLASS BEARS (AGAIN)
Click above for game photos.
Ex-Bear Justin Oswald ran for an amazing 165 yards and a score as the Rhino-Raiders claimed their 4th straight RMFL title and 8th straight league title overall, 16-14, over the Cache Valley Bears.
The high-powered Bears offense was completely outplayed by the Rhino defense. The Bears mustered a meager 160 of offense, including 16 rushing yards by running backs.
Dave Stireman, playing his final RMFL game, was masterful as he passed for 180 yards and a touchdown, while keeping the Bears defense off balance with his play calling.
Look for a season wrap-up story in the coming days.
Complete championship game story, at least seen through the eyes of Jared Neumeier, plus game statistics, can be found on the league website.
Sunday, July 8
RHINOS/WOLVERINES SEMIFINAL GAME PHOTOS
Monday, June 25
RHINOS BEAT LIONZ; WOLVERINES REMATCH NEXT
For the first time in the 9 year team history, the Rhino-Raiders have the opportunity to avenge a league loss. On June 2nd, the Rhinos squandered a 17-10 halftime lead on their way to a 40-20 loss to the Utah Wolverines. By virtue of their 27-21 quarterfinal win Saturday at Morgan High over the Lionz, the Rhinos roll into Juan Diego for the Saturday, 1 p.m. showdown with one thing on their minds: PAYBACK.
It is playoff time and the Rhinos have won 18 straight playoff games since the 2000 season.
The Rhinos will wear road WHITE jersey's.
Players need to be at stadium by 11 a.m.
Sunday, June 17
RHINOS COAST PAST SEMINOLES; LIONZ REMATCH NEXT
The Rhinos coasted to a 23-0 win over the Salt Lake Seminoles in 105 degree heat Saturday at Granite High School. The win and a Lionz loss at home vs. the Cache Valley Bears sets up the rematch of the memorable Rhino win last week 20-18.
Construction at Ben Lomond High School is forcing the relocation of this playoff game to MORGAN HIGH SCHOOL. Kickoff will be at 6 p.m.
All players should be at the stadium by 4:30 p.m. and bring both RED & WHITE jersey's.
Monday, June 11
RHINOS TOPPLE LIONZ ON FINAL PLAY OF GAME
Down by 12 with under a minute to play, Dave Stireman threww two touchdown passes, including a 42 yarder as time expired, to shock the Lionz 20-18. Damon Greenberry hauled in the winning touchdown to cap the dramatic win.
The Rhinos will wind up the regular season at Salt Lake City's Granite High School against the Salt Lake Seminoles this Saturday at 6 p.m.
With a win, the Rhinos can do no worse than the #3 seed and a home playoff game on June 23rd.
Rhinos are in road WHITE jersey's.
Wednesday, May 9
MILE HIGH GRIZZLIES GAME POSTPONED
Mile High Grizzlies game has been postponed due to sevral Grizzlies players being ruled ineligible. Apparently 12-15 players joined an indoor team in the Denver area earlier this winter, only to never get paid and play just one game before the league folded. Under ridiculous CFC rules, any professional player is inelgible to play in the CFC for three years from the time their done.
Whatever their deal, they are hoping to regroup and come to Ogden later in the summer.
Saturday, May 26
RHINOS HEAD TO JUAN DIEGO ON MISSION
The Rhino-Raiders will travel to Juan Diego High School in Draper to square off with the Utah Wolverines on Saturday, June 2nd. Kickoff is set for 6 p.m. Shortly after the RMFL announced the 2007 schedule, this game was circled on the calendar by many Rhinos, especially those that reside in Salt Lake and Utah Counties. A much improved Wolverines team from 2006, the Wolverines hope to end years of frustration by knocking off the Rhinos. The Rhinos beat the Wolverines 35-7 in Draper last year.
Rhinos will wear their white jersey's. Be there by 4:30.
Saturday, April 28
RHINO-RAIDERS BEAT BOISE SPEED 39-6
After a couple of lackluster offensive performances, the Rhino offense woke up to the tune of a 39-6 win over the Boise Speed this afternoon at Weber High School in Ogden.
Complete game story and statistics to be posted on the RMFL site.
Sunday, May 6
OSWALD, CARTER & PETERSON SHINE IN RHINO WIN
On a cold, rainy, windy Saturday afternoon at Ben Lomond High, the Rhino-Raiders rolled to a 42-14 win over the under-manned Muddogs.
Justin Oswald ran wild behind the dominating offensive line of Travis Brower, Eric Mullen, Dave Baker, Josh Page and Ken Byrd. Oswald totalled three touchdowns including two long runs.
Defensively, Chris Carter and WR/DB Jamal Peterson each grabbed three interceptions.
And for the good news/bad news. The good news is all-RMFL WR Damon Greenberry caught two touchdown passes and showed the burst of speed he is known for throughout the region. Greenberry is still recovering from surgery to repair a compound fracture in his lower leg. The second such injury in the past three years.
That's the good news. The bad news (for the RMFL) is: READ THE LAST PARAGRAPH.
Complete game story and game stats to be posted on the RMFL site Monday night.
Sunday, April 22
NEVER UNDER-ESTIMATE THE HEART OF A CHAMPION
In what proved to be a battle of field position, the Rhino-Raiders once again persevered with a 7-6 road victory over the Cache Valley Bears.
Led by a stifling defense which harassed both Bear quarterbacks all night long and a ball control offense which dominated second half time of possession, the Rhinos ran their 2007 league mark to 2-0, 3-0 overall.
After a scoreless first half which ended with the Rhino defense blocking a 35 yard field attempt, the Rhino offense took over in the second half. After holding the Bears on their initial series in the 3rd quarter, the Rhinos marched the length of the field where Dave Stireman found Justin DeFour for a 5 yard touchdown. Rodney Frokjer provided what turned out to be the decisive extra point.
In a game of strategy, the Rhino braintrust turned in a couple of unusual calls (at least for them). On 4th and short on two seperate second half possessions, Rhino QB Dave Stireman, from shot-gun formation, punted with both balls ending up on the Bears 3rd yard line. The first punt went for 70 yards.
However, it was from the 3 yard line with just over two minutes that Bears QB Caleb Eastman connected over a few passes to get them down to the Rhino 43. From there, Eastman found WR Blake Garrett over the top for the long touchdown. After a 5 yard false start penalty on the offense, the Bears extra point try was blocked by Rhino Tracy Ita. The ensuing on-side kick was recovered by Levine Tupe. With only one Bear time-out remaining and just over 1 minute on the clock, it was three kneel downs and a Rhino victory.
The RMFL game story and stats to be posted on the RMFL website.
Saturday, April 14
RHINO DEFENSE LOCKS UP POCATELLO
The Rhino-Raiders opened defense of their RMFL title by whipping the Pocatello Predators 21-0.
The defense was dominant led by Levine and Jay Tupe, plus all star performances by Setema Gali, Bill Nebeker and Tracy Ita.
Dave Stireman hooked up with WR Justin DeFour in the first half for a pair of touchdowns and Justin Oswald rambled 24 yards to round out the scoring.
The Rhinos played ball and clock control in the second half to claim the victory going away.
Complete stats and game story to be posted on the RMFL site.
Tuesday, April 3
FORMER RHINO NATE MICONI PASSES AWAY AT 33
Former Roy High School, Snow College, Northern Arizona University and Rhino-Raider standout Nate Miconi passed away Sunday at the age of 33. He will be missed by all who knew him. Click above link to view Obituary.
I have known and been friends with the Miconi Family for many years. My heart goes out to Janelle and the kids, plus mom and dad, Peggy and Dennis.
I will personally miss him and in his honor, all Rhino-Raider players will wear his trademark #9 on the backs of their helmets this season.
Dave Stireman
Wednesday, February 21
BAPTIST TAKES WORLD TITLE
Nate Baptist brought home a world title at the WABDL Power Lifting Championships reently in Las Vegas. Nate bested the competition in the Junior Men (20-25) division with a Utah state record in this category by bench pressing 479.5 lbs. Look for Nate being one of the anchors of the Rhino O-line again this season.
Click the above link to see all of the results from the competition.
Friday, February 16
RHINOS TO CALL WOODS CROSS HIGH SCHOOL 2ND HOME IN 2007
In an effort to provide our players, their families and the many fans the Rhinos have in Davis, Salt Lake and Utah Counties, the Rhino-Raiders have announced that they will play two "home" games at Woods Cross High School this season. Adjacent to the freeway, and sporting new field turf installed last summer, the location is ideal for everyone, including the Muddogs and Seminoles, both of whom call the Salt Lake area home. The Rhinos will host their two Idaho opponents at Ben Lomond High, their longtime home stadium.
Woods Cross recently hired Fred Fernandes, former Northridge Head Coach, and most recently the running backs coach at Weber State. He is reunited with Eric Grisby, his former Defensive Coordinator at Northridge. Coach Grisby ran the top ranked Rhino defense in 2005.
The Rhinos will also host a free clinic on football fundamentals for all local high school level players and younger prior to the May 5th game. Details will be forthcoming.
Thursday, February 15
PAIR OF JUSTIN'S JOIN RHINOS
Justin Oswald and Justin DeFour, both having played with Cache Valley in 2006, have joined the Rhinos for the upcoming season.
Oswald, 2005 Rhino sack leader with 6.5, was used mainly at RB in Logan last year. The Rhinos expect the versatile Oswald to blend right in with the league's top defense, plus add to an already powerful running game headed by Rashad Kennedy.
DeFour, thought to be orginally playing with the Rhinos last year, ended up in Logan, but only grabbed 9 balls for 100+ yards on the season, while playing part-time. An Ogden resident, DeFour is committed to full-time playing status and should make a huge impact along side ex-Weber State teammate Damon Greenberry.
More announcements forthcoming.
Monday, February 12
RETURNING RHINOS TOP ANNUAL RMFL NEWS
Every year at this time, the local semi-pro football scene focuses its attention on the Rhino-Raider roster. Specifically, who is retiring.
Here is the latest update on some of the veteran players, along with a listing of a few new players:
OL Phil Sotomayor: Had successful ACL surgery following 2006 RMFL title game, plus surgery to fix a chronic foot problem. Retired from playing, but will coach the offensive line.
OL Todd Wheelwright: Will undergo arm and shoulder surgery to repair chronic injuries and will retire from playing. Todd will remain part of the organization.
TE Nick Fotu: Moved to Texas.
DB Tony Wolfgramm: Released to play closer to Salt Lake home after birth of child late last year.
DB David Stroshine: After contemplating retirement following serious concussion in New Mexico game, will return to anchor the leagues top secondary.
TE KC MacQueen: Missed entire 2006 season recovering from broken foot suffered in basketball game. Will return in 2007.
WR Ben Jones: Missed entire season after breaking wrist in opening game against Salt Lake Nemesis. Will return in 2007.
OL Nate Wilkins: ex-WSU standout will provide immediate support after joining team last fall.
OL Travis Brower: ex-Ute also joined team last fall and will fill shoes of the retired Sotomayor.
Sunday, January 28
8TH STRAIGHT TITLE RUN BEGINS AS 2007 SCHEDULE RELEASED
The annual league meeting held in Pocatello over the weekend produced relatively no surprises other than the newly formed Salt Lake Seminoles being voted into the AAA division. The Rhinos will wrap up their regular season at the Seminoles in June. The Seminoles proclaim Cottonwood High School as their home field.
More importantly, the Rhinos will open defense of their title April 14th in Pocatello against the Predators, a team the Rhinos beat twice in 2006, including the playoff semifinals. Week two takes the Rhinos to Logan to face the Cache Valley Bears. The much anticipated 2006 showdown in Ogden turned out to be a 31-14 runaway win by the Rhinos.
The Rhino play their first of four home games on Saturday, April 28th as they host the Boise Speed, formerly named Roughriders.
The Rhinos will also step outside of the RMFL play as they host 2006 Colorado Football Conference Semifinalist Mile High Grizzlies on May 19th. In a short turnaround, the Utah Heat come to town for a special Thursday night battle on May 24th.
Player news and more team news to be posted in the coming days and weeks.
Wednesday, July 26
COMCAST CHAMPIONSHIP GAME DVD'S AVAILABLE
DVD copies of the 2006 RMFL Championship Game are available for $10 ea. Call Dave for details.
Saturday, August 19
RHINOS OUTLAST NORCAL LAWMEN 29-25
In a battle of league champions, the NorCal Lawmen from Concord, CA fell short in their upset bid of the Rhino-Raiders on Saturday night at Ben Lomond High School.
Final score: 29-25
The winning margin came with 43 seconds remaining on a 12 touchdown run by Justin Oswald. After the Lawmen had scored with 3:30 left to take a 25-22 lead, Dave Stireman hit on 5 consecutive passes to set the Rhinos stage for the winning score.
Sunday, July 16
SAME OLD STORY AS RMFL ANNOUNCES POST-SEASON AWARDS
What is a familiar season ending story, the Rhinos go undefeated, win another championship, have individual performances that shatter league record, yet watch as the league votes for other players as MVP's.
Case in point in 2006. WR Damon Greenberry hauls in 18 touchdown receptions to best the previous record of 12. Greenberry scores 110 points to shatter the previous record of 87. Greenberry posts 1163 receiving yards to vault past the previous record of 1056. And oh yes, he does this during the AAA season against the very best of the RMFL.
If this isn't worthy of the offensive MVP of the RMFL than there needs to be a revamping of how this award is decided. With all due respect the oustanding player in his own right that won the award, said player against AA competition during a short playoff run, rushed 19 times for 26 yards. Conversely, and once again vs. AAA competition, Mr. Greenbery posted the following numbers: 7 receptions, 164 yards and 3 touchdowns. And both games were wins.
Obviously the system is flawed when you combine both AAA and AA MVP awards. The league meeting was represented by 9 AAA teams and 13 AA teams.
Sunday, July 16
ALL RMFL TEAMS
Congratulations to all Rhinos represented here and everyone else that made the 2006 championship season one to remember.
AAA FIRST TEAM
OFFENSE:
Troy Dougherty, Quarterback, Madison Lionz
Travis Boden, Running Back, Idaho Falls Mustangs
Justin Oswald, Running Back, Cache Valley Bears
Nate Brown, Tight End, Madison Lionz
Damon Greenberry, Wide Receiver, Ogden Rhino-Raiders
Kelly Nebeker, Wide Reciever, Pocatello Predators
Ryan Lingenfelder, Offensive Line, Idaho Falls Mustangs
Eric Hancock, Offensive Line, Pocatello Predators
Eric Christiansen, Offensive Line, Ogden Rhino-Raiders
Phil Sotomayor, Offensive Line, Ogden Rhino-Raiders
Joe Critchfield, Offensive Line, Boise Roughriders
Eric Harbison, Place-Kicker, Boise Roughriders
DEFENSE:
Amos Fiefia, Defensive Tackle, Cache Valley Bears
Val Tiatia, Defensive Tackle, Ogden Rhino-Raiders
Roy Withers, Defensive End, Madison Lionz
Andrew Butler, Defensive End, Utah Wolverines
Zac Jockumsen, Linebacker, Boise Roughriders
Justin Walker, Linebacker, Ogden Rhino-Raiders
Matt Shoda, Linebacker, Utah Wolverines
Matt Wiser, Linebacker, Cache Valley Bears
Matt Stroshine, Defensive Back, Ogden Rhino-Raiders
Dane Knickrehm, Defensive Back, Boise Roughriders
Brandon Reed, Defensive Back, Idaho Falls Mustangs
Troy Sutton, Defensive Back, Pocatello Predators
James Neslen, Return Specialist, Utah Wolverines
AAA SECOND TEAM
OFFENSE:
Dave Stireman, Quarterback, Ogden Rhino-Raiders
Tavita Makalo, Running Back, Utah Wolverines
Rashad Kennedy, Running Back, Ogden Rhino-Raiders
Ryan Seely, Tight End, Utah Wolverines
Trevor Bell, Wide Receiver, Ogden Rhino-Raiders
Norvel Young, Wide Receiver, Cache Valley Bears
Zac Johnson, Wide Receiver, Madison Lionz
Tyson Poulsen, Offensive Lineman, Idaho Falls Mustangs
Todd Rietmann, Offensive Lineman, Boise Roughriders
Charles Kano, Offensive Lineman, Cache Valley Bears
Todd Wheelwright, Offensive Line, Ogden Rhino-Raiders
Travis Hobson, Offensive Line, Pocatello Predators
Nate Maw, Offensive Line, Madison Lionz
Rodney Frokjer, Place-Kicker, Ogden Rhino-Raiders
DEFENSE:
Vaea Fiefia, Defensive Tackle, Cache Valley Bears
James Huml, Defensive Tackle, Madison Lionz
Davien Brokaw, Defensive End, Pocatello Predators
Sam Matagi, Defensive Tackle, Ogden Rhino-Raiders
Jeb Harrison, Linebacker, Idaho Falls Mustangs
DJ Brookter, Linebacker, Cache Valley Bears
Levine Tupe, Linebacker, Ogden Rhino-Raiders
Siolo Toala, Defensive Back, Utah Heat
Kevin Bekker, Defensive Back, Boise Roughriders
Kish Beverly, Defensive Back, Madison Lionz
David Stroshine, Defensive Back, Ogden Rhino-Raiders
Justin Weaver, Defensive Back, Idaho Falls Mustangs
Nate Rydalch, Return Specialist, Madison Lionz
HONORABLE MENTION:
Bill Nebeker, Defensive End; Jake Phippen, Linebacker; Jared Harward, Defensive Back; Tony Wolfgramm, Defensive Back; Nate Baptist, Offensive Line; Nick Fotu, Tight End; Tracy Ita, Defensive End; Jay Tupe, Linebacker.
Sunday, July 9
RHINO DEFENSE TOO MUCH FOR LIONZ
Rashad Kennedy rushed for 158 yards and the Rhino defense registered 10 sacks along with picking off three Troy Dougherty passes as the Rhino-Raiders captured their 7th straight league title (4 UFL/3 RMFL) with a 34-26 win over the Madison Lionz.
A complete game story along with stats will be posted on the RMFL site.
Game photos will be posted here with a link to the photographers website Monday.
Stay tuned as the Rhinos will set their fall schedule of games as they move onto compete for the MLFN & AFA AAA National Championships.
Saturday, July 1
RHINOS CHALLENGED, BUT STILL ADVANCE TO CHAMPIONSHIP GAME
The Rhino-Raiders beat the Pocatello Predators for the second time this season to advance to their 3rd straight RMFL and 7th straight overall league championship game, 35-28.
Contrary to our infamous commissioner/beat writer's game preview, the Silverbacks were well-off with all of their players. For the Rhinos, no Bell, no Fotu, no Gali, no Alifipo, no Scadden, no Manu, no Wheelwright, no Taliulu, no Carter, no Tuatagaloa, no Eyre. I guess the beat writer missed the memo. The Rhinos rallied to win their 79th straight league game.
Either way, the Predators hung tough, closing the 14 point lead the Rhinos maintained most of the second half with a Jeff Belnap to Kelly Nebeker TD pass with under 4 mintues to play. With the score now 35-28, the Rhinos would never relinquish the ball again and run out the clock.
The Rhinos would like to thank all of the Predators, even #53, for making the trip to Ogden and playing with tremendous heart for 4 quarters.
The Rhinos will now meet the Madison Lionz for the second straight year in the championship game Saturday night, July 8th at Ogden's Ben Lomond High School. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. The Lionz defeated the Cache Valley Bears 24-17 in Logan to earn the trip to Ogden. The Rhinos beat the Lionz 37-31 in Rexburg week three of the regular season.
Game stats and story to be posted on the RMFL site Sunday night.
Look for special announcements surrounding the championship game during the week.
Tuesday, June 27
RHINOS/RMFL GETTING MORE EXPOSURE
The coverage is great, even if some of the quotes are inaccurate.
By Bryan Hinton
Deseret Morning News
Even without money and fame, semi-pro football players in Utah play their game with a passion not found at any other level of the sport.
"It's for the love of the game," said John Thornton, head coach of the Salt Lake County-based Muddogs. "Our guys have said they haven't been this excited to play since high school. It's just awesome to watch these guys."
The Muddogs play in the Rocky Mountain Football League, which features 22 teams from Utah, Idaho, Montana and Colorado. And although players actually have to pay to play, the league has almost 1,100 players.
"The league has been awesome," Thornton said. "A lot of people don't know about it. When they find out, they pick up that passion, too."
He said there is a real camaraderie among the players.
"I've not coached a team that has a love for each other like this team," Thornton said. "It's like a family. The players call it a brotherhood."
Jared Neumeier, the commissioner of the RMFL, said the skill of the players might surprise people.
"It's one level below arena football," he said. "The play is like the (Canadian Football League). We won't get NFL scouts at the games, but we do get college scouts. A lot of guys jump to the collegiate level."
Neumeier said many former collegiate players will join teams in the league. He said nearly all of the athletes played in high school.
"We get guys from the places like the winter indoor league (in Utah) and the Ricks College intramural program," Neumeier said. "What really feeds semi-pro is high school players."
Since the RMFL was founded in 1997, Neumeier said teams have come and gone, with each year seeing two or three new programs with at least one team moving or folding. Such was the case of the Wasatch Wildcats after last season. Their Web site said the team shut down due to team issues and the health of one of the owners.
Brian Nicholson, Deseret Morning NewsSetema Gali, right, of the South Ogden Rhino Raiders, reaches for the ball after a blocked punt. In 2003, the RMFL merged with the Utah Football league, which introduced a dominating force to the league: The South Ogden Rhino-Raiders.
While the Muddogs are excited about their 8-0 finish to the regular season, the Rhino-Raiders are currently on a 78-game conference winning streak stretching back to the start of the 2000 season.
Head coach Dave Stireman said maintaining a winning streak that long gets tougher and tougher with each game.
"We're everybody's big game," Stireman said. "Each year, there's some new team trying to put something together to beat us. This year it was the Cache Valley Bears."
Stireman said the Bears had many former Utah State players in their lineup, but the Rhino-Raiders still won the showdown with their new rivals, 31-14, on May 6.
Neumeier said the dominance of South Ogden was bad for the league for many years, but it is now becoming a positive.
"They stocked up and whipped up on everybody," he said. "The UFL had dwindled to four or five teams. It was discouraging, but now it's coming to an end. Since they moved to the RMFL, they've had better competition. They're not dominating anymore. They haven't lost, but only by their chinny-chin-chin."
By winning so many RMFL championships, South Ogden has had the opportunity to play in the North American Football League.
Neumeier said the NAFL's name is deceiving because it is more of an association.
"It contracts with leagues and has a national tournament," he said. "It has no league games, though."
Neumeier said the Rhino-Raiders have won a couple of Western area tournaments, but no team from the RMFL has ever won a national tournament.
There are two divisions in the RMFL AAA and AA. The Rhino-Raiders play in AAA, which is the higher of the two levels. The Muddogs play in AA.
Neumeier said the difference in the two divisions is primarily the number of players on the teams.
"In AA, there are about 30 to 40 players on the teams," he said. "In AAA, there are 50-60. You'll also see linemen in the 300-pound range. There are also A-level teams across the country that will have about 15 players."
Stireman said unlike most levels of football, there is a huge discrepancy in the age of the players.
"Our team has by far the oldest average age," he said. "There's a guy for the Utah Wolverines that's about 50 years old. He's a teacher and a coach on the side. There's a wide range. A lot of players are right out of high school."
Most of the fans that watch RMFL games are family members and friends of the players, but Stireman said his team has a bit of a following.
"Against the Bears, there were 800-1,000 people," he said. "A lot of them are fans of Weber State. There are 15 or so ex-Weber players on the team. A lot of the fans want to see players that they watched in college."
There are more than 600 semi-pro teams across the country, but Neumeier said there is still room for more.
"There are still untapped markets," he said. "The league will continue to grow. There's a small conference of seven or eight teams in Colorado that could join. Idaho is fairly full, but Montana could grow. We've had teams in Elko (Nevada) before."
Tuesday, June 20
LEAGUE HIGH 8 RHINOS HEADLINE SOUTH ALL-STAR TEAM
The #1 ranked AAA team in the MLFN Western Region and undefeated Rhino-Raiders landed 8 players on the 2006 RMFL South All-Star team. The game, scheduled for 6 p.m. at Bear River High in Tremonton, will also have Rhino Head Coach/Offensive Coordinator/Quarterback coaching the offense for the 3rd straight year.
Congratulations to the following players on the 1st team:
WR Damon Greenberry
WR Trevor Bell
OL Todd Wheelwright
OL Eric Christiansen
DL Val Tiatia
LB Levine Tupe
LB Justin Walker
DB Matt Stroshine
Alternates:
TE Nick Fotu
OL Nate Baptist
DB Jay Tupe
If anyone listed on the first team is unable to play, then alternates are chosen.
Note: OL Phil Sotomayor was nominated, but has a previous out of town committment and is unable to participate this year.
Sunday, June 18
RHINOS TURN UP HEAT ON UTAH HEAT, WIN 34-6
The Rhino-Raiders ran their 2006 record to 9-0 and wrapped up the #1 seed in the upcoming AAA playoffs by beating the Utah Heat 34-6 Saturday night at Ben Lomond High School.
Dave Stireman tossed three TD's to run his season total to 30 and Damon Greenberry added two more scores as the Rhinos won a lackluster game over a fired up Heat team. Greenberry finished the 2006 regular season with 110 points scored to shatter the old record of 87 held by Madison's Buck Mouser. He also broke the yardage record in the process and ran his league record season touchdown mark to 18.
The defense turned in their usual stellar play by intercepting three Heat passes, one each by Matt Stroshine, Chris Carter and Tony Wolfgramm. Levine & Jay Tupe, plus Jake Phippen turned in great play as well.
The Rhinos now have next weekend off as they rest up for a playoff semifinal matchup at home on Saturday, July 1st. Kickoff will be at 7 p.m. at Ben Lomond High School.
Complete game stats to be posted on the RMFL site Sunday night.
Saturday, June 10
GREENBERRY BREAKS RMFL SCORING RECORD AS RHINOS BEAT WOLVERINES
Damon Greenberry hauled in 3 touchdown catches to lead the Rhino-Raiders to a 35-6 win over the Utah Wolverines Saturday evening at Juan Diego High School. Greenberry broke the old scoring record of 87 points as his total now stands at 98, with one league game left, too.
Greenberry accountedd for the only first half scoring for the Rhinos as he hauled in a 90 TD pass from relief QB Jeff Wissler, as Dave Stireman served a league imposed 2 quarter suspension. When Stireman did return the Rhinos took a 7-3 halftime lead and ran away in the second half. Stireman threw two more TD passes to Greenberry, as stablemate Trevor Bell enjoyed a vacation on a cruise ship.
Maybe the biggest play of the night was turned in by Mr. Everything, David Stroshine, as he raced untouched on a kickoff return for a TD to open the second half. Brother Matt had another interception and DE Manu Taeoalii recorded a team leading 3 sacks. Val Tiatia was his usual dominant self up the middle and the Tupe Brothers, Jay & Levine, along with Jake Phippen were all outstanding on defense as they held the Wolverines offense, which scored 57 points last week, to a measly 2 FG's.
Complete game stats to be posted on the RMFL site Sunday evening.
Sunday, June 4
RHINOS BEAT POCATELLO 28-19
The Rhinos ran their 2006 record to 7-0 with a 28-19 win over a spirited Pocatello Predators squad Saturday night at Ben Lomond High School.
Damon Greenberry continued his assault on the RMFL scoring record by grabbing two more touchdown receptions. League leading receiver Trevor Bell arrived at the beginning of the 4th quarter from a trip to Phoenix and immediately made one big catch. Rashad Kennedy was also terrific from his familiar spot in the Rhino backfield.
Matt Stroshine led the defense with 3 interceptions. Jay Tupe and Jake Phippen were also solid on defense. Starters David Stroshine, Justin Walker, Jared Harward, Levine Tupe and Val Tiatia all took the night off.
Complete story and game stats to be posted on the RMFL website.
Saturday, May 20
RHINOS BLOW NEMESIS AWAY AGAIN
Dave Stireman fired 5 touchdown passes as the Rhinos beat the Salt Lake Nemesis 52-12 Saturday night at Ben Lomond High School. League leading receivers Damon Greenberry (3) and Trevor Bell (2) both had huge nights as they accounted for all 5 scoring receptions.
The defense had its usual great play from Bill Nebeker, Tracy Ita, Setema Gali, Justin Walker, Manu Taeoalii and the Tupe Brothers, Jay & Levine, among others.
Complete game stats will be posted on the RMFL site Sunday night.
Sunday, May 14
RHINOS AVOID LETDOWN WITH 35-6 WIN OVER WOLVERINES
Fresh off wins over two of the better teams in the RMFL, the Rhinos overcame a sluggisn first half to post a convincing 35-6 win over the Utah Wolverines Saturday night at Ben Lomond High School.
Dave Stireman fired 4 touchdowns, 2 each to Trevor Bell and Damon Greenberry, to run away from a 14-6 halftime lead.
Defensively, Tracy Ita thwarted a drive with an interception deep in Rhino territory returning it to the 40 before lateralling the ball to Jared Harward who raced untouched for the touchdown. Jake Phippen was outstanding also for the defense.
Complete game story and stats will be posted on the RMFL webpage Sunday night.
Sunday, May 7
SHOWDOWN WAS NO-SHOW AS RHINOS ROMP
The long anticipated game between the Rhino-Raiders and Cache Valley Bears turned out to be a lopsided affair as the hometown Raiders won 31-14.
The Rhino defense, led by a 12 tackle, 5 sack performance by LB Justin Walker, controlled the game throughout. Walker also had an interception coupled with a back-breaking 84 yard interception return for a touchdown by Jared Harward with 18 seconds left in the first half. After the score, the Rhinos led 17-0 at the break.
Offensively, Dave Stireman threw for 171 yards and two touchdowns, while the offensive line gave up zero sacks. Stireman, even with several cheap shot/late hits at the knees, hit Trevor Bell with both touchdowns.
It was a classy win by a classy team.
Saturday, April 29
RHINOS CLAIM HARD FOUGHT ROAD WIN OVER LIONZ
The Rhinos upped their 2006 record to 3-0 with a 37-31 win over the Madison Lionz Saturday night in Rexburg, ID. The Rhinos dominated the first 28 1/2 minutes of the game. But with a 23-7 lead and nearing the redzone to possibly take a larger lead into the half, one of three Rhinos fumbles gave the Lionz life. They took the ball and scored a touchdown with 9 seconds left followed by a two point conversation to cut the halftime lead to 8. The Lionz took advantage of great field position and the wind in the 3rd quarter as they took a 24-23 lead. However, the Rhinos answered the challenge and countered with two huge pass plays, one to Trevor Bell and the other to Damon Greenberry which vaulted the Rhinos back up to a two touchdown lead. The Lionz scored one last touchdown with less than a minute to go and failed on their onside kick attempt.
The defense was sensational for most of the night as they sacked the Lionz QB several times and hit him countless times as he threw. They also picked off a pass and recovered a fumble.
Complete stats should be posted on the RMFL site by Sunday evening.
Saturday, April 22
RHINOS TOO MUCH FOR HEAT
The Rhino-Raiders, behind an electrifying aerial show from Dave Stireman, beat up on the Utah Heat 40-6. The ageless wonder riddled the Heat defense to the tune of 411 yards and 5 touchdowns. The defense was impressive registering 10 sacks, forcing two fumbles and picking off a pass.
Complete stats to be posted on the RMFL website Sunday night.
Saturday, April 15
70 STRAIGHT LEAGUE WINS AS RHINOS DOMINATE NEMESIS 51-6
The Rhino-Raiders opened the 2006 season blasting the Salt Lake Nemesis on their home field of Orem High School 51-6. The new look Rhino defense pitched a shutout not allowing the Nemesis offense get inside their 40 all day. The Nemesis lone points came off a spectacular interception and return by Nemesis defender Harold Regan.
The Rhino offense was led by QB Dave Stireman who fired four first half touchdowns to four different receivers as the Rhinos went into the haftime locker room up 27-0. Damon Greenberry made a triumphant return hauling in 8 passes and a touchdown. TE Nick Fotu also had a TD catch, which included a highlight reel run over a Nemesis safety inside the 10. In his first game ever and on his first catch and the second play from scrimmage for the Rhino offense, Ben Jones hauled in a long Stireman pass and easily outraced the defenders for a 66 yard touchdown. New RB Selu Alifipo had a dominating day as he ran for over 100 yards and ripped off two impressive touchdown runs in the second half as the Rhinos vaulted to a 44-6 lead. The scoring was capped by a late Nick Payne run of 7 yards. The Rhino offensive line, widely regarded as the top front 5 in the west, kept Stireman clean all day as only one time did they put any pressure on him, resulting in a scramble out of bounds for a 5 yard sack.
The defense had a number of stars led by Levine Tupe, Jay Tupe, David Stroshine, Setema Gali, Bill Nebeker, Jed Davies, Matt Stroshine, Chris Carter, Jared Harward, Justin Walker, Tony Wolfgramm, Manu Taeoalii, Val Tiatia, Matt Taliulu, Sam Matagi, Eric Eyre, Jake Phippen, Tracy Ita, and Ken Perkins, among others. Fotu also got into the defensive fun as he posted a couple of hard hitting tackles.
Complete stats will be posted on the league website Sunday night.
Sunday, March 12
RELOADING CONTINUES AS RHINOS LAND BIGTIME PLAYERS
After the surprising departure of Norvel Young, the Rhinos wasted no time in replacing him as the team has received commitments from two talented wide receivers as ex-WSU standout Justin DeFour along with the return of Jamaal Peterson have more than made up for the loss.
But the biggest addition to the Rhinos roster, a roster already loaded with easily the top talent in the region, may very well be RB Selu Alifipo. The former Dixie College and Louisiana Tech standout may just be the top RB in the league. Selu teamed up with players such as Jay & Levine Tupe, Fine Unga, Adam Cunningham, and others to win the 1999 UFL title as members of the Wasatch Demons. In fact, the last time the Rhinos lost a UFL/RMFL game was in the semifinals that same year to the Demons.
Wednesday, March 1
"E" TO RUN VAUNTED RHINO DEFENSE
The Rhinos will have a new face roaming the sidelines, but a familiar face to semi-pro football in this region, as Everestt Matagi joins the team as the new defensive coordinator.
"E" was the mastermind of the RMFL's #1 rated Wasatch defense in 2005. Although he is a University of Utah grad, he has significant ties to Weber State, as his older brother (by 1 year) Chris was a standout defensive back for the Wildcats. Chris played with several current Rhinos while at WSU. Everestt is also cousin to Levine & Jay Tupe, as in their mothers are sisters. Nothing better than a family reunion every Saturday night this spring and summer in Rhinoland.
Don't expect a whole lot of new stuff except for the most talented, best coached defense that will easily qualify as the leagues top defense. From its coach all the way through this years star-studded defense, expect just about every opponent to struggle to put points on the board.
Thursday, February 23
RHINOS RELOAD AS 2006 SEASON NEARS
What do you get when you add a handful of top players from the 2005 RMFL #1 rated defense to an already loaded Rhino defense? Easily the top defense in this region and possibly the west. Some may boast about their defense, but no one near or far can match up player for player with the Rhino defense of 2006. This defense is two deep at every position. Several "stars" of this region return to anchor the 2006 defense, most notably Jay & Levine Tupe and the top two-way player ever to play in this league, Trevor Bell. Also returning for their 7th season with the Rhinos are DE Bill Nebeker and DB Jed Davies, not to mention a cast of solid veterans in Manu Taeoalii, Tony Wolfgramm, Mike Mecham, Jake Phippen & Eric Eyre.
Here are some of the new (and old) faces that are committed to the Rhinos for the 2006 season:
SS David Stroshine (Weber State, Tennessee Titans)
DE Setema Gali (BYU, New England Patriots)
DB Vea Ofa (Univ. of Utah)
DB DeShawn Crockett (Univ. of Utah)
DB Matt Stroshine (Weber State
DL Pene Talamaivao (Univ. of Utah, NFL Europe)
OL Vance Moe (Utah State)
New Additions:
TE/DE Sifa Tafisi (Univ. of Bear Hunting)
WR/DB Ben Jones (Utah State)
DB Juron Junior (Weber State)
Plus one of the most electrifying players in Rhino-Raider history, WR Damon Greenberry, returns after sitting out the 2005 season recovering from a compound leg fracture.
Look for several more announcements as the 2006 roster takes shape.
Saturday, January 28
RENEGADES CLAIM 2005 MLFN AAA NATIONAL & FWFA CHAMPIONSHIPS
The Rhino-Raiders suffered their first loss of the 2005 season in a 41-14 defeat in San Francisco to the Daly City Renegades. The Rhinos took the opening kickoff and marched the length of the field culminating with a 12 yard touchdown pass from Dave Stireman to Norvel Young. And then the rains came and both teams struggled to maintain any ball control or footing in the slippery conditions. After Daly City reeled off 27 straight points, with the last TD coming with 5 seconds left in the first half, the Rhino defense came up big in the third quarter with stop after stop. With 8 minutes left in the game, Rhinos safety Jay Tupe intercepted a pitch in the backfield and returned the ball to the Renegade 12. On the very next play, Stireman found Damon Greenberry to cut the lead to 13, 27-14. The Renegades responded by scoring two late touchdowns to squelch any late game heroics by the visitors.
The Rhino-Raiders would like to personally thank the players listed below who not only made the commitment to go to San Francisco, but actually did without backing out less than 3 days prior. For those of you that commited to go, but backed out this past week and for those of you that didn't even have the decency to answer your phone, return messages or call the team back and let the team know that you were backing out on your commitment, I suggest you do the following.
Read the definition of the word "commitment" in the dictionary.
Decide between now and our first game of the 2006 RMFL season if this is something that each and every one of you can live with. If you can't, then turn your uniforms into someone other than me, because turning it into me would require you to call me and make those arrangements. And we know how obviously difficult that was. For those of you that did have the decency to call back, you, too, need to make up your minds if playing on this team is important enough to commit to the 2006 schedule.
Sincerely,
Dave Stireman and the following 19 players that went to San Francisco
Trevor Bell
Norvel Young
Eric Eyre
Phil Sotomayor
Carl Silva
Radford Kaleikini
Nick Payne
Damon Greenberry
Justin Oswald
Levine Tupe
Jay Tupe
Jed Davies
Tim Atkinson
Tony Wolfgramm
Bill Nebeker
Mike Mecham
Eric Christiansen (get well soon)
Todd Wheelwright
Jake Phippen
Wednesday, January 25
CHAMPIONSHIP GAME TO BE BROADCAST LIVE ON INTERNET
The Daly City game can be heard live via the internet beginning at 2 p.m. MST Saturday. To listen, click above link. There is no charge to listen.
Monday, November 7
PHOENIX BACKS OUT OF FWFA SEMIFINAL GAME
The Phoenix Rebels withdrew from the FWFA today and will not travel to Ogden to face the #1 ranked Rhino-Raiders this Saturday. This puts the Rhinos into the FWFA/National Challenge Bowl championship game for the 4th straight year. The FWFA Title game is set for December 10th at Dixie College in St. George. Kickoff is 7 p.m. The Rhinos will face the winner between Southern California's yet to be determined champion and the Daly City Renegades. That game will take place on December 3rd.
More information will be posted in the coming days.
Monday, October 17
RHINOS TO HOST PHOENIX REBELS
The Rhino-Raiders and Phoenix Rebels agreed to meet in Ogden on November 12th. Game time is set for 6 p.m. at Ben Lomond High School.
Attorneys representing the Rhino-Raiders and MLFA reached an out-of-court settlement Friday, September 9th allowing the Wasatch/Daly City playoff game to proceed.
With the MLFA fiasco behind them, the Rhino-Raiders now attempt to reach their 4th straight FWFA/MLFN Challenge Bowl title game.
In 2002, the Rhino-Raiders dismantled the GSAFL Champion Capitol City Fury 43-12 in Las Vegas. In 2003, the Rhino-Raiders edged the Southern California Steelers 46-40 in OT. That game was also played in Las Vegas. Last year, the San Gabriel Valley Rhinos scored a touchdown in the final minute to win 18-13 in St. George.
The winner of the Rhino-Raider/Rebel game advances to the FWFA title game in St. George on December 10th. They will face the winner of CFA Champ/SWFL Champ vs. Daly City. With an epic matchup looming between the Rhino-Raiders and Renegades back in September, the Rhino-Raiders were ousted from the MLFA playoffs. If not, a likely Renegades trip to Utah to face the undefeated, #1 ranked Rhino-Raiders would have taken place. The Renegades then played an undermanned Wasatch team, winning 41-6, and then went onto a win over Grand Rapids, Michigan.
With any luck, the September 10th game that never happened may take place December 10th in St. George.
Sunday, September 4
DIXIE COLLEGE RUNS PAST RHINOS IN EXHIBITION GAME
The Dixie State College Rebels are everything the Rhino-Raiders are not. Young, in great shape, extremely disciplined, fresh out of double days, at home and hungry to move on to the next level. All of this added up to a 47-9 victory for the youngsters. Dixie, ranked #2 in the NJCAA, ran for 315 yards while capitalizing on 5 turnovers, and returned a kickoff for a touchdown.
In what is likely the last game ever between the Rhino-Raiders and Dixie College due to Dixie moving up to the NCAA Division II ranks in 2006, all who attended had a great time. If it wasn't for the great relationship between Coach Croshaw of Dixie and Dave Stireman, this annual game would have ended several years ago after ex-UFL Commissioner Jim Marshall sent down an "all star" team of 15 players that got embarrassed and humiliated.
Since this has always been a non-counting game, at least by all legitimate publications, organizations and leagues, the Rhino-Raiders have always invited down with them many other players from around the northern Utah area. (Games against all star teams or college teams do not count on a semi-pro or minor league teams record)
The Rhino-Raiders would like to thank all of their own for making the trip to St. George along with these others:
Defensive Coordinator: Everest Matagi
Wasatch Wildcat players: Setema Gali, Marcus Whalen, Matt Stroshine, Tracy Ita, Sam Matagi, Jared Harward, Justin Walker, Jeff Wissler, Golden Whetman & Ken Byrd.
Utah Wolverine players: Roger Shulze & George Liti.
Salt Lake Nemesis player: Nate Cone
Davis Viper player: Nash Montoya
plus Thomas Hinds, Vince Tauanuu & Pene Talamaivo
Many thanks from the Rhino-Raiders
Sunday, July 31
RHINOS HEADLINE ALL-RMFL TEAMS
The RMFL announced the 2005 All-RMFL teams in the year end Managing Board meeting during All Star weekend. These players were voted on by the owners/GM's/Head Coaches of each of the 21 member teams. Congratulations to the following Rhinos for another outstanding season:
FIRST TEAM
WR Norvel Young
OL Phil Sotomayor
OL Todd Wheelwright
OL Eric Christiansen
DE Justin Oswald
LB Levine Tupe
DB Jay Tupe
All-Purpose Trevor Bell
SECOND TEAM
QB Dave Stireman
THIRD TEAM
Jed Davies
HONORABLE MENTION
DE Bill Nebeker
DB Tony Wolfgramm
LB Mike Pierce
TE Nick Fotu
DL Vaea Fiefia
RB Rob Morse
RB Rashad Kennedy
P/K Rodney Frojker
WR Ryan Scadden
LB Mike Pierce
Complete list will be posted on the league website.
League individual awards were also announced with the undefeated Rhinos getting shutout once again.
League MVP - Nate Brown/Madison
Offensive MVP - Troy Dougherty/Madison
Defensive MVP - Harold Reagan/Salt Lake
And for the first time, divisional MVP's were also named as these were voted on by only players in our Utah North Division. I would list them here but I am still shaking my head as to why Rhinos players were shutout of this category as well. No disresepct to the players who were named, but........let's be honest. On a more positive note, all three Utah South Division awards winners came from division winner Wasatch. Amazing how that works.
Sunday, July 17
RHINOS CLAIM 2005 RMFL TITLE
Sunday, July 17, 2005
By Jon Yorgason
Standard-Examiner correspondent
Former WSU star Kennedy provides offensive spark
OGDEN -- The Madison Lionz proved to be South Ogden's most formidable opponent this year, but that didn't stop the Rhino-Raiders from capturing their second straight Rocky Mountain Football League championship and sixth straight title overall.
Former Weber State star Rashad Kennedy provided most of the offense for the Raiders, rushing for 132 yards and two touchdowns, including the go-ahead score with 4:07 remaining in the third quarter as South Ogden downed the Lionz 24-19 Saturday night at Ben Lomond's McAllister Field.
Madison was every bit South Ogden's equal for three-fourths of the game. But late in the third quarter and with the Raiders trailing 13-10, tight end K.C. MacQueen made a spectacular catch over the middle of the field that completely changed the complexion of the game.
Rhino-Raiders quarterback Dave Stireman flung the ball downfield and MacQueen made an impressive over-the-shoulder catch for a 35-yard gain to the Lionz' 14-yard line.
Two plays later, Kennedy sprinted in from six yards out to give the Rhino-Raiders their first lead of the second half.
"Rashard is a player," said long-time Rhino-Raider and offensive lineman Phil Sotomayor. "He is a true college back and he always makes an offensive line look good. That's a credit to him. He knows how to read a hole and he hits it quick."
Early in the fourth quarter, the teams traded interceptions before Stireman found Ryan Scadden open in the end zone for a two yard scoring play to give the Raiders a 24-13 advantage.
With just under seven minutes to play, the game's most bizarre play occurred.
On the first play following Scadden's TD reception, Madison running back Nate Rydalch broke free for what appeared to be a 61-yard touchdown run, which would have cut the lead to six points. But as Rydalch neared the end zone, he turned and appeared to taunt the South Ogden defenders trailing the play.
Unfortunately for Rydalch, as he pointed the ball at the Raiders' players, it squirted out of his hand just before he crossed the goal line. The ball bounced around before settling in the end zone, where the Raiders' Trevor Bell pounced on it for a touchback.
Madison's Nate Brown scored a TD late in the game to make the final margin five points.
Complete stats posted on the RMFL website.
Saturday, July 9
RHINOS TOO MUCH FOR WILDCATS
Dave Stireman fired three touchdowns and the Rhino defense dominated the Wasatch Wildcats enroute to a 24-9 semifinal win. After a sluggish first half as the Rhino offense appeared to sputter, Stireman found Ryan Scadden with 10 seconds left in the first half to put the Rhinos ahead 10-6 at the break. Stireman then found Trevor Bell and Norvel Young for second half touchdowns and the defense was absolutely amazing. Jed Davies grabbed two interceptions.
Complete game story and stats will be posted on the RMFL site by Sunday.
The Rhinos will now host the Madison Lionz (10-0) Saturday, July 16th at Ogden's Ben Lomond High School. Kickoff is set for 7:05 p.m. The Rhinos ousted Madison in last years quarterfinals 35-26, enroute to their 5th straight league title.
Saturday, June 25
RHINOS ROUT NEMESIS
The Rhinos opened defense of their RMFL title by beating the Salt Lake Nemesis 50-25. After a 7-0 end of first quarter score, the Rhinos would hang 30 second quarter points on the board to take a commanding 37-6 lead into the locker room. Trevor Bell had an all world day as he hauled in 7 passes for 221 yards and two touchdowns. A complete story along with game stats will be posted on the RMFL site Sunday morning.
Wednesday, June 22
RHINOS ANNOUNCE MLFA AFFILIATION
After holding dual membership in our regional leagues (UFL & RMFL) and the North American Football League, the Rhinos have joined the 2nd year Minor League Football Association. The MLFA, comprised of teams from California, Utah, Colorado and the midwest, offers the Rhinos a chance to play other teams from around the country, in particular teams from the Colorado and California, in a tournament style format. Other Utah teams in the league are the Wasatch Wildcats, Davis Vipers and Kamas Valley Muddogs.
Over the past two seasons, the Rhinos have played NAFL games against teams from the Northwest Football League. However, with the Eastside Hawks folding prior to this season, the Rhinos felt it time to go in another direction. The Hawks have eliminated the Rhinos in each of the past two seasons' NAFL playoffs.
Since the MLFA counts games played in our regional league towards their league, the Rhinos 8-0 record is tops in the west with only one regular season game left to be played before the playoffs begin. That game will be in Ogden against the Muddogs on August 13th. Win or lose, the Rhinos will open the MLFA playoffs at home on August 27th against the Wasatch Wildcats. With a win over the Muddogs on August 13th, the Rhinos will have home field advantage throughout the MLFA playoffs.
Check the 2005 Schedule at the bottom of this page for complete playoff and all-star game information.
Wednesday, June 15
RHINOS HEADLINE 2005 RMFL ALL-STAR TEAM
The RMFL announced the 2005 All-Star teams that will square off July 30th in Idaho Falls. 15 members of the Rhino family were named.
2005 All-Stars
WR Norvel Young
WR Trevor Bell
OL Phil Sotomayor
OL Todd Wheelwright
DE Justin Oswald
LB Levine Tupe
SS Jay Tupe
2005 All-Star Alternates
DE Bill Nebeker
LB Mike Pierce
CB Jed Davies
TE Nick Fotu
DT Vaea Fiefia
OL Eric Christiansen
Also, Rhino-Raider Head Coach Dave Stireman will be the Head Coach & Offensive Coordinator for the team.
Congrats to all and good luck.
Saturday, June 11
RHINOS OVERCOME ELEMENTS, WILDCATS TO WIN 20-14
The game of the year in the RMFL came down to a battle of survival as the Rhino-Raiders beat the Wasatch Wildcats 20-14 to finish the regular season at 8-0 and secure home field advantage throughout the upcoming playoffs. The game was played in a constant rainfall and torrential downpours.
After the Rhinos jumped out to a 14-0 first half lead on a fumble recovery in the endzone and a Dave Stireman to Nick Fotu touchdown pass. The Wildcats would strike back as they recovered a fumble on the wet Ben Lomond field and returned it for a touchdown. After yet another fumble by the Rhinos, QB Adam Cunningham ran around right end for a touchdown which tied the game at 14 at the half.
The second was a battle of the top two defenses in the league and a battle with mother nature as neither team could mount much offense. However, that all changed in the third as Stireman found Norvel Young for an electrifying 53 yard touchdown pass for the second half's only scoring. The Rhino defense was dominant as they forced 11 Wildcat turnovers.
A complete game story along with statistics will be posted on the RMFL by Sunday night.
The Rhinos are off next week but return home for a quarterfinal playoff game on June 25. Kickoff is 7 p.m. at Ben Lomond High School. The opponent will be determined in next weeks opening round playoff games.
Saturday, April 23
RHINOS ROMP IN SEASON OPENER
Horseshoe Bend, ID: The Rhino-Raiders opened defense of their championship trophy with a dominating 42-14 win over the Boise Roughriders Saturday night. The Rhino defense caused havoc all night forcing the Roughriders into several turnovers, including an interception return for a touchdown by LB Mike Pierce plus interceptions by Levine Tupe, Jay Tupe and Jed Davies.
Offensively, Dave Stireman tossed touchdowns to Norvel Young and James Owens and also scrambled 7 yards for the Rhinos opening score on a pivotal 4th down play to start the scoring onslaught. Rob Morse and Terrance Marks each had short TD runs. Rodney Frokjer was a perfect 6-6 on PAT's.
Complete stats will be posted on the RMFL site by Sunday night.
Thursday, April 7
ZUMBRUN LOSES SPLIT DECISION TO RIDDICK BOWE
Former Rhino-Raider LB Billy Zumbrun lost a close split decision to former heavyweight champion of the world Riddick Bowe tonight at the Pechanga Resort in Temecula, CA. Zumbrun had won his previous 7 fights before the loss. Bowe is attempting a comeback after an 8 year layoff.
Saturday, March 26
NFE ANNOUNCES 2004 ALL-AMERICA TEAM
National Football Events 2004 All-America team has been announced with WR Norvel Young being named to the 1st team. Here are the Rhino-Raiders named to the team:
1st Team - WR Norvel Young
2nd Team - DE Vaea Fiefia
3rd Team - RS Damon Greenberry
Hon. Men. - OT Phil Sotomayor
Hon. Men. - C Todd Wheelwright
Hon. Men. - QB Dave Stireman
Congratulations to all.
Thursday, March 10
RHINOS & POWER MEDIA TEAM UP
The Rhino-Raiders have finalized a deal with Power Media Group of Ogden. The company will handle all public relations, media relations, advertising, press releases, business partnerships and fundraising. Power Media is also the media representative for the Ogden Raptors.
There is also a strong possibility that all Rhino-Raider games, home and away, will be taped and replayed on Comcast Channel 17 television out of Ogden. The Raptors, a minor league baseball affiliate of the Los Angeles Dodgers, currently has a similar deal in place.
Click on above link to access Power Media.
Tuesday, February 15
MORE PLAYER NEWS FROM RHINOLAND
The Rhino-Raiders management has confirmed today that All America WR Norvel Young will return for the 2005 season. Norvel severely injured his ankle in the August victory over the Albuquerque Razorbacks and did not play again in 2004.
Also joining the team is former All Mountain West Conference defensive back DeShawn Crockett, who played collegiately at the University of Utah. DeShawn, with his exceptional cover skills, will add depth to the top defensive backfield in the region.
More news to come.
Saturday, February 12
RHINOS' FAMILY SUFFERS HUGE LOSS
Steve Dixon, owner of Dixon Trophy, current Rhino-Raider team statistician and longtime friend of Dave Stireman, passed away Thursday, February 10th. Steve will be sorely missed and our thoughts and prayers go out to his wife Deanna, and their three young children.
Stephen Glen Dixon LAYTON - Stephen Glen Dixon, beloved husband, father, son, brother, and friend died unexpectedly February 10, 2005 at the age of 37. He was born December 28, 1967 to Ray Dixon and Nannette Humphreys Dixon. He was raised in North Ogden, graduating from Weber High School in 1986. He attended Weber State and the University of Utah. He served an LDS Mission to Switzerland. He married Deanna Dearden on March 9, 1990 in the Salt Lake LDS Temple. Steve was a die-hard Ute's fan and loved to attend the games. He was happiest cheering for the red and white and listening to great rock and roll. He was a successful businessman and ran Dixon Trophy on Riverdale Road for several years. Steve loved being a dad. He was totally devoted to his family and loved to spoil his kids. He had a special name for each one and we know that they will miss hearing their dad call them by that special name. He is survived by his wife Deanna and their three beautiful children, Kelly (13), Cynthia (9), and Christopher (4). He is also survived by his mother, Nanette Dixon, North Ogden; and brother David (Dennise) Dixon, North Ogden; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins and in-laws. He was preceded in death by his father, Ray Dixon. Funeral services will be held Tuesday, February 15, 2005 at 2 p.m. at Lindquist's Layton Mortuary, 1867 No. Fairfield Road. Friends and family may call Tuesday from 12:30 to 1:45 p.m. at the mortuary. Interment, Lindquist's Memorial Park at Layton, 1867 No. Fairfield Road. In lieu of flowers please donate to the Stephen G. Dixon Memorial Fund at any America First Credit Union. E-mail condolences to the family at llm@lindquistmortuary.com.
Saturday, February 5
UPDATE FROM RHINOLAND
Every time this time of year, much of the league spotlight shines brightly on the Rhinos roster. Who is new, who is returning and who is retiring. Here are just a handful of newsworthy items:
RB David Fiefia - former Utah State All America injured his knee on his one and only carry in 2004 season opener vs. Pocatello. Fiefia played every game during the fall at 100% and will be the #1 running threat in the RMFL in 2005.
TE Nick Fotu - widely regarded as the regions top tight end, missed second half of last season due family and little league football coaching duties.
WR/DB Trevor Bell - former two-time UFL MVP, Bell returns to full time status after playing the last two seasons with the Utah Warriors of the NIFL.
WR James Owens - returns after playing the past three seasons in the NIFL with both Billings and Sioux City. Owens holds the Rhino-Raiders single season records for catches at 85 and touchdowns with 28, both set in 2000.
RB/LB/Defensive Coordinator Fine Unga - former Pittsburgh Steeler has played sparingly the past two seasons due to his coaching responsibilities at Weber State.
TE/DE K.C. MacQueen - MacQueen just might be the best athlete on this years team. Great strength, quickness and agility, plus great hands for a big man. One of Northern Utah's top competitive league basketball players, as well.
WR Zac Christensen - former Univ. of Utah receiver will add depth to the top group of receivers in the west.
DB Vea Ofa - another former Ute expected to step in and compete for one of the starting cornerback jobs.
OL Nate Wilkins - former Weber State center will add depth and youth to the best and oldest offensive line this the west.
QB Adam Cunningham - was the starting QB for the 1999 UFL Champion Wasatch Demons. Superb athlete equally adept at running and throwing. Now living in the Ogden area, Cunningham returns for the first time since the 2002 season when he played for the UFL's Utah Warriors.
OL Mark Petersen - just might be the largest person I have ever seen. Petersen, a skilled rugby player, also played with the New Zealand National Football team that has toured the United States, and coincindently played against a few current Rhinos when they squared off against Snow College.
RB/DB Andrew Kano - Younger brother of starting left guard Charles, Andrew returns from an LDS mission just as other brother John leaves for his. John or Kuma, as he was affectionately called, was the Rhinos special teams captain the past two seasons. Andrew will step in and make an immediate impact.
Several more players will be highlighted in the coming weeks.
The Rhinos roster is updated on a continuous basis and can be found by clicking on the Info link on the left hand column of this page or on the underlined UPDATE FROM RHINOLAND.
The Rhinos would also like to thank and bid farewell to two longtime players. DT Willis Mickles suffered a knee injury during fall action and will have surgery to repair a torn ACL. SS Nate Miconi and his wife are expecting the couples first child in March. New family and the families tile business will keep Nate busy in 2005. Also, Defensive Coordinator Eric Grisby will not return. Coach Gris, has also held the same position at Northridge High School for several years, plans to take time off from coaching to hunt and fish with his son.
Saturday, January 8
RHINOS HEADLINE MLFN ALL AMERICA TEAM
The following Rhino-Raider players have been named to the 2004 Minor League Football News Western Region All America Team:
First Team
WR Damon Greenberry
OL Todd Wheelwright
OL Phil Sotomayor
LB Jay Tupe
DL Vaea Fiefia
DL Walter Fiefia
Second Team
QB Dave Stireman
DB Nate Miconi
Congratulations to all!!!
Tuesday, December 21
FWFA GAME FILM AVAILABLE
Contact:
Tom Nguyen
P.O. Box 34832
Las Vegas, NV 89133
702-480-4223
Cost is $10.00. Available on DVD or VHS
Sunday, December 19
OTHER RHINOS CLAIM 18-13 WIN
Shorthanded and out of sync for most of the game, the Rhino-Raiders lost a heartbreaker to the San Gabriel Valley Rhinos 18-13 in the FWFA Championship Game played Saturday night in St. George.
Even without 4 defensive starters (CB Trevor Bell, CB Nate Cone, FS Tony Wolfgramm & SS Nate Miconi), a patch work defense played tremendously. Adding insult to injury on defense, following a fumble return by LB Levine Tupe, a confrontation between one of the Rhino-Raiders premier defenders, Jay Tupe, and Rhino Head Coach Michael Fuller, resulted in Jay's ejection in the first half.
The classless head coach of the Rhinos was allowed to remain.
With the Rhino-Raiders offense sputtering after a two month layoff and missing 6 starters (OL Eric Christiansen, OL Gary Lucero, HB Rob Morse, TE Nick Fotu & All American WR Norvel Young), they went to halftime down 10-2. But the second half was better as the Rhino-Raiders mounted two long drives to take a 13-10 with just under two minutes to go.
The SGV Rhinos went on their only drive of the second half aided by a one long pass play and then a touchdown pass with 45 seconds remaining to win the game.
A remarkable effort was turned in by Damon Greenberry. With stable mate receivers Young, James Owens & Rashad Kennedy all being no shows, Greenberry made several catches and most notably, due to the two missing starters CB's, he played both ways. He had several pass breakups plus two interceptions. Also, WR/TE Ryan Scadden returned from early season Achilles tendon surgery, and still only about 60%, turned in a solid effort.
The Rhino-Raider management would like to congratulate the San Gabriel Valley players for a hard fought win with class.
Unfortunately, their head coach, obviously never being in a game of this magnitude, was a total joke and had absolutely no class. His on-field antics and his taunting and jestures towards Rhino-Raider players and coach/QB Dave Stireman greatly tarnished his teams accomplishment.
Rhino-Raider management would also like to thank and congratulate those fine players that did make the trip to St. George and also on another great season.
Obviously, the Rhino-Raiders couldn't overcome the loss of 10 starters and still beat a good team. The Rhinos deserve to be the #2 ranked team in the west far behind the Eastside Hawks.
Wednesday, October 20
YOUNG & GREENBERRY PICKED FOR NAFL ALL STAR GAME
WR's Norvel Young and Damon Greenberry have both been selected to play in the NAFL All Star game November 13th in Orlando.
A complete list along with game information can be found at the above link.
Tuesday, October 12
"SUPER HAWKS" GRAB HOME WIN 41-7
The Rhinos would like to thank the following team members that made the trip to Seattle:
Damon Greenberry
Trevor Bell
James Owens
Dave Comer
Mike Cook
Phil Sotomayor
Todd Wheelwright
Travis Elliott
Charles Kano
Gary Lucero
Nate Baptist
Eric Christiansen
Rob Morse
David Fiefia
Josh Christensen
Vaea Fiefia
Walter Fiefia
Bill Nebeker
Reggie Jones
Shane Dooley
Manu Taeoalii
Jay Tupe
Levine Tupe
Mike Mecham
Justin Oswald
Jake Phippen
John Kano
Tony Wolfgramm
Junior Baker
Tim Atkinson
Jed Davies
Nate Cone
Manuel Gadlin
Jay Fletcher
Coach Eric Grisby
Dr. Mark Jolley
Many thanks and let's set our sights on our December 18th game in Las Vegas.
Dave Stireman
Wednesday, September 22
TEAM & COMMUNITY LOSE FRIEND
Former Rhino-Raider team chiropractor Nate Weathers passed away suddenly this past weekend. Nate served as the team doctor from 2000 through 2003. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his wife Carrie and their four young children.
SOUTH OGDEN - Dr. Nathan Val Weathers, died Sunday, September 19, 2004 at his home in South Ogden.
He was born February 23, 1974 in Ogden, Utah, to Val A. and Claudia Bennett Weathers.
Nathan married Carrie Combe on July 21, 1994 in Ogden. They were the proud parents of four beautiful children, two daughters, Karson Paige (9) and Avery Grace (1), and two sons, Kade Nathan (6) and Skyler Gavin (5).
He was educated in the Weber County Schools. He attended South Junior High School where he played football, basketball (on the county championship team) and baseball. He was an Eagle Scout. He later graduated from Bonneville High School in 1992 where he lettered in soccer. He attended Weber State University. He was a graduate of Parker Chiropractic College in Dallas, Texas in 1997 and had his own practice in South Ogden.
Nathans hobbies included golfing, playing the guitar, watching and playing sports, and spending time with his family.
He is survived by his wife, children, parents, in-laws, Corey and Lenora Combe, sister Melissa Weathers, Kalispell, MT; and brother, Michael (Kristin), Provo.
He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Earl and Faye Bennett, and Walter and Verda Weathers.
Funeral services will be held Thursday at 1 p.m. at the Ogden Weber Stake Center, 5855 Skyline Drive, South Ogden.
A viewing for family and friends will be held at the Stake Center on Thursday from 10:30 to 12:30 p.m.
Interment, Lindquists Memorial Gardens of the Wasatch, 1718 Combe Road.
Funeral Directors, Lindquists Ogden Mortuary.
In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Primary Childrens Medical Center.
Email condolences to the family at lom@lindquistmortuary.com.
Saturday, September 11
RHINOS TOP TWO MAJOR RANKINGS
Here is a list of where the Rhino-Raiders currently rank with all semi-pro publications:
All AAA Rankings
MLFN
#1 Winter/Spring - Western Region
#2 Summer/Fall - Western Region
AFN
#1 Winter/Spring - Western Region
Real Football News
#2 Nationally
NFE
#11 Nationally
MLFN Power Ranking
#11 Nationally
Tuesday, September 7
RECORD NUMBER OF PENALTIES IN DIXIE LOSS
Already a highly penalized team, the Rhino-Raiders took it to another level with a team record 23 penalties for 189 yards in the Dixie game. Dixie had 10 for 67 yards. Couple that with untimely turnovers and several players no-showing and the Rhino just couldn't hang onto a 14 point first half lead. Dixie dressed almost 100 players to 35 for the Rhinos.
As with any game between a semi-pro team and a college or all-star team, this game does not count on either teams record as a win or loss.
With that frustrating, but fun exhibition game loss in the rear view mirror, the Rhinos return to action on September 25th at home against the King County Jaguars in the 1st round of the NAFL National Playoffs. The Rhinos beat the Jaguars 20-2 in last years 1st round playoff game.
Saturday, September 4
RHINOS HANG TOUGH, RUN OUT OF GAS IN 4TH
The Rhinos could not overcome a lack of depth and a serious discrepancy in penalty yards and fall 54-27 to Dixie College in this exhibition game Saturday night.
With the Rhinos holding a 21-14 lead and inside the 10 yard line looking for more with less than a minute to go before the half, the penalty flags started flying. And before you knew it, the Rhinos were attempting a 52 yard field goal with 3 seconds left, and without fail, it was blocked and returned for a demoralizing touchdwon for Dixie. Halftime score 21-21.
The Rhinos then momentarily regained the momentum and took a 27-21 lead in the third. The Rhinos defense continued to play well as they held the Rebel offense in check. But turnovers and penalties spelled doom for the Rhinos. With the score 34-27 Rebels with 9 minutes to go, the Rhinos ran out of gas gave up three late touchdowns.
Great news for Ogden fans as the Rhino-Raiders reached an agreement in principle to host the Rebels in Ogden next September. This will be the first time in Dixie College history that they have had a chance to play in the Greater Salt Lake/Ogden Metro area.
The Rhinos (13-0) are back to normal action September 25th as they host the King County (Seattle) Jaguars (8-2) in the 1st round of the NAFL playoffs
Saturday, August 28
RHINOS DOMINATE RAZORBACKS
Behind a punishing rushing attack, the Rhino-Raiders win big over the Albuquerque Razorbacks 57-26. David Fiefia, Selu Alifipo, Josh Christensen and Rob Morse all had rushing touchdowns and Dave Stireman connected on three TD passes. The defense was led by Nate Miconi, Jay & Levine Tupe, Walter & Vaea Fiefia and Bill Nebeker.
The Rhinos led 37-20 right before half after Stireman found Greenbery for a touchdown. But on the ensuing kickoff, a Razorback returned the kick 98 yards as the first half clock expired. The extra point failed and the Rhinos led by 11 at the half. But the second half was all Rhinos as the they posted 20 unanswered points with the Razorbacks never threatening to score.
The Rhino-Raiders will now play the winner of an elimination tourney between 4 California leagues (CFA, SWFL, GSAFL & MLFA Pacific Region) December 18th in Pahrump, NV in the 2nd FWFA Championship Game. The Rhino-Raiders defeated the Southern California Steelers (SWFL) in the inaugural game last December, 46-40 in overtime.
Monday, August 2
RHINO-RAIDERS FEATURED IN STREET MAGAZINE
The Rhino-Raiders are featured in the current issue of Street Magazine on news stands now. The magazine is free and can be found all around Weber & Davis Counties. Due to the fact that is has a color action photo of #97 Shane Dooley, the editor felt none would sell, so they are all free. j/k
Click above link to view magazine. The article is on page 61.
Monday, July 19
RHINOS HEADLINE ALL-RMFL TEAMS
1st Team
WR Norvel Young
OL Phil Sotomayor
OL Todd Wheelwright
DL Vaea Fiefia
SS Nate Miconi
CB Jed Davies
2nd Team
WR Damon Greenberry
QB Dave Stireman
OL Eric Christiansen
OL Charles Kano
TE Nick Fotu
DE Bill Nebeker
3rd Team
RB Beau Etling
DB Jay Tupe
DE Manu Taeoalii
K Rodney Frokjer
Honorable Mention
DE Shane Dooley, DT Reggie Jones, DB Tony Wolfgramm, LB Levine Tupe, OL Gary Lucero, RB Otter Tupe, LB Mike Pierce
Sunday, July 18
RHINOS SHUTOUT IN MVP CATEGORIES
For the first time in the teams 6 year history, no player from the Rhino-Raiders was awarded as either the league MVP, offensive MVP or defensive MVP. Not coincidently, this is the first year of the merger with teams from Idaho and Montana. The RMFL over the years has allowed the players from all of the teams to supposedly vote for these three awards. However, more times than not, teams are either not voting at all (Layton Longhorns) or just having someone from the team fill out the ballots randomly and send them in. In prior years, the Utah Football League Board of Directors would gather at year end and nominate and vote objectively. This would eliminate the fact that most players from Utah don't even know who most players from Idaho and Montana are and vice versa. Therefore, any vote of this kind is tremendously flawed and leads to exactly what happened this year in the RMFL. Not to say that the three players who were given these awards this year are not tremendous players in their own right. Who knows, they may be. But when the undefeated, unchallenged, number one in all major team categories, plus has a QB that literally dominated the league every time he stepped on the field all the way through the playoffs, plus the most dominating defensive player in the history of both league as proven by his sack record, not to mention the top two receiving threats in the entire region and the leagues leading scorer, it becomes painfully obvious that this system is bogus. And in all three categories, the voting wasn't even close. Maybe the most obvious flaw in most players' voting opinions is statistics. And it is clearly known throughout the league that many teams register inflated statistics to boost ones top players. The Rhino-Raiders management, in an effort to provide true and accurate statistical reporting, hired and paid a professional person from outside the organization to handle statistics.
The Rhino-Raiders will take their 5th straight championship team trophy and move on to the national tournaments knowing that they dominated all opponents as a team. As for individual accomplishments, the true knowledgeable players and team owner/GM's around the league know who were deserving of these three awards.
Saturday, July 17
GREENBERRY, RHINOS SHINE BRIGHTEST IN ALL-STAR WIN
Led by Damon Greenberry's remarkable three touchdown effort, the UFL All-Stars beat the RMFC All-Stars 34-29 in Fort Hall, ID. Greenbery, who walked away with the Game MVP Trophy, returned a punt, a kickoff and caught a pass all for touchdowns. Norvel Young caught two touchdown passes, TE Nick Fotu also contributed win a couple of timely catches and huge blocks and OL Phil Sotomayor led the offensive line which only allowed one sack. RB Beau Etling also ripped off a few nice runs. Defensively, Nate Miconi, Jay Tupe, Bill Nebeker, Shane Dooley and Jed Davies all played terrific for the victorious team from the UFC.
Complete stats listed on the RMFL site.
Saturday, July 10
RHINO-RAIDERS REIGN SUPREME
By JON YORGASON
Standard-Examiner correspondent
OGDEN -- It was a new season, a new league and even a new place to play, but the result was exactly the same for the South Ogden Rhino-Raiders.
Behind five touchdown passes from quarterback Dave Stireman and a remarkable defensive effort, the Raiders captured their fifth consecutive league championship with a convincing 46-20 win over the Idaho Falls Mustangs Saturday night at Ben Lomond High School.
South Ogden won four straight Utah Football League titles prior to this season. Then earlier this year, the UFL teams joined with the Rocky Mountain Football League to form a 16-team league, which included teams from Utah, Idaho and Montana.
While other teams certainly found increased parity with the expanded league, the new format just gave the Rhino-Raiders more opponents to pick on.
So when Idaho Falls came to Ogden for the championship game, the Mustangs became meat for the hungry Rhino-Raiders.
The win completes yet another undefeated season for South Ogden (11-0), which has defeated 58 straight league opponents.
"That was a good win against a good team," Stireman said. "(Idaho Falls) has a tremendous amount of heart and they fought hard. But we're going to enjoy this and get ready for the national stuff coming up next month."
The Raiders, who normally play their home games at Ogden High School, were forced to switch to McAllister Field at Ben Lomond for the title game because of scheduled improvements being made to Ogden High's track.
But the change of venue had almost no impact for the RMFL's number one-ranked offense and defense.
Stireman threw three TD passes to speedster Damon Greenberry -- the two were named co-MVPs -- and one each to Norvel Young and Rashad Kennedy. Beau Etling added a 12-yard touchdown run and Levine Tupe rounded out the scoring by recovering a fumble in the end zone as the first half clock expired.
The Raiders and Mustangs played to a scoreless tie after one quarter, but the horn at the end of the period seemed to wake South Ogden up.
On the first play of the second quarter, Stireman found Kennedy wide open for a 17-yard scoring strike. Four minutes later, former Weber State star Fine Unga entered the game and really got things going.
On Unga's first play, he took a handoff from Stireman and rumbled for 12 yards. On the next play, Unga's block in the backfield helped spring Greenberry, who raced down the South Ogden sideline, where Stireman hit him perfectly in stride for a 50-yard scoring pass play.
"(Unga) is such an experienced running back," Stireman said. "His instincts are tremendous. He's still got a great burst. Nothing against (Etling) because he's had a great year, but when Fine steps into the huddle, our offensive line brings it up a notch. He is the best player in this region when he wants to be. He's a tremendous, tremendous talent. (Fine and I) are at the end of our careers and we're just having a lot of fun."
Idaho Falls (8-3) scored three harmless touchdowns in the fourth quarter.
Complete statistics posted on RMFL website.
Sunday, June 27
RHINOS CHARGE TOWARDS 5TH STRAIGHT TITLE
By JON YORGASON
Standard-Examiner correspondent
OGDEN -- A more than 45-minute delay to the start of Saturday night's football game was not enough to slow down the South Ogden Rhino-Raiders.
The scrappy Raiders advanced to their fifth straight championship game, their first as members of the Rocky Mountain Football League, after dispatching the Salt Lake Nemesis 51-28 at Ogden High School.
Quarterback Dave Stireman threw six touchdown passes and Jay Tupe and others put forth a superb defensive effort.
The semifinal playoff game was scheduled to begin at 6 p.m., but a vicious downpour, coupled with a few nearby lightning strikes pushed the start back to nearly 7 p.m.
"The rain was unbelievable," Stireman said. "But the weather eventually cooperated and I think the field survived pretty well."
When the game finally got under way, the Rhino-Raiders got busy putting it out of reach -- and it didn't take long.
Less than five minutes into the first quarter, Stireman found Damon Greenberry for a 10-yard touchdown pass.
Six minutes later, the Raiders struck again, this time a remarkable 56-yard pass play from Stireman to Jamaal Peterson.
But to say it was a 56-yard pass play doesn't really tell the story.
The play started as a little five-yard dump pass to Peterson, who juked around for a few moments near the Salt Lake sidelines then tried to escape from the Nemesis' defenders.
When that didn't work, he took off for the other side of the field. There, he found plenty of running room and raced to the end zone untouched. He had the ball for about 20 seconds before finally reaching the goal line.
"I just threw a short little five-yard pass and he made the play," Stireman said. "You don't necessarily need a 40-yard pass downfield to make plays."
Greenberry, Peterson, and Norvel Young each caught two touchdown passes in the victory. Running back Beau Etling, who rushed for 80 yards on 15 carries, added the other score. Rodney Frokjer also kicked a 29-yard field goal.
It was a much better-played game than last week's quarterfinal matchup. A week ago, the Raiders had a meltdown in the second half, with personal fouls and unsportsmanlike conduct throughout.
This time around, while some of the same penalties resurfaced, the Raiders were able to overcome them with their superior offense and cooler heads.
"We just played better all the way around," Stireman said. "(Salt Lake) is a good team. They're much improved from last year. But our offense was terrific and our defense played very well."
The Rhino-Raiders (11-0) will host the Idaho Falls Mustangs (8-2) in the RMFL Championship game on July 10th. Ogden High School's track is scheduled for resurfacing beginning on July 5th, prompting a move to another stadium. An announcement will be made in the coming days.
Complete offensive & defensive statistics posted on the RMFL site.
Monday, June 21
RHINOS HEADLINE 2004 ALL-STAR TEAM
2004 RMFL ALL-STAR TEAM MEMBERS
WR Damon Greenberry
WR Norvel Young
DT Vaea Fiefia*
DE Bill Nebeker
RB Beau Etling
OL Phil Sotomayor
OL Todd Wheelwright*
SS Nate Miconi
CB Jed Davies
QB Dave Stireman*
TE Nick Fotu
DB Jay Tupe
OL Eric Christiansen
DE Shane Dooley
*not playing
Alternates
P/K Rodney Frokjer
DE Manu Taeoalii
OL Charles Kano
LB Levine Tupe
FS Tony Wolfgramm
OL Gary Lucero
RB Rob Morse
Sunday, June 20
RHINOS OVERCOME LIONZ FOR PLAYOFF WIN
By JON YORGASON
Standard-Examiner correspondent
OGDEN -- Playoff football in the Rocky Mountain Football League can get a little bizarre. Saturday night's opening round matchup between the South Ogden Rhino-Raiders and the Madison Lionz was so strange, in fact, that no one was really sure what the final score was.
It was either 35-20 or 35-26 in favor of the Rhino-Raiders, but the officials were long gone before the score could be determined. The important thing is that South Ogden prevailed and will face the Salt Lake Nemesis next Saturday in the semifinals. Kickoff is set for 6 p.m. at Ogden High School.
Beau Etling rushed for 110 yards on 13 carries and Norvel Young caught two touchdown passes to lead South Ogden to the win.
The Raiders (10-0) cruised to 35-7 halftime advantage and appeared well on their way to another blowout victory over the team that they had overwhelmed 57-17 earlier this season. But things went south in the third period beginning with the kickoff to start the second half.
Damon Greenberry, who earlier in the game had returned a kick 100 yards for a touchdown, fumbled the ball away, giving the Lionz premium field position at the South Ogden 33-yard line. Then it really started to unravel for the Rhino-Raiders. The Lionz (5-4) not only took advantage of the Greenberry fumble, but benefited from three costly Raider penalties. The result was a nine-yard TD reception to Madison receiver Todd Barber.
One minute into the fourth quarter, Madison struck again; this time a one-yard run by Kirk Smith. Suddenly South Ogden's lead was 35-20.
Just as the score was about to get even tighter, South Ogden's Jake Phippen made the defensive play of the game. With 3:20 to play and Madison deep in South Ogden territory, Phippen blitzed from his linebacker position and sacked Dougherty.
Complete offensive & defensive statistics are posted on the RMFL site.
Saturday, June 12
FIEFIA, DEFENSE TOO MUCH FOR WOLVERINES
DE Vaea Fiefia set a new RMFL single season sack record and the Rhino defense posted another impressive shutout with a 42-0 win over the Utah Wolverines Saturday evening at Ogden High School. With 1 1/2 sacks on the night, Fiefia's total now stands at 14, breaking the old record of 13 set last year by Curt Haldeman of the Boise Roughriders. Also coming up big on defense were Jay Tupe with a blocked punt and LB Mike Pierce with a 27 yard interception return for a touchdown. Manu Taeoalii, Nate Miconi, Shane Dooley, Reggie Jones, Walter Fiefia, Levine Tupe, Tony Wolfgramm, Jed Davies & Derrick Beatty all make big plays as the leagues #1 ranked defense held the Wolverine to just over 100 yards of total offense.
Offensively, RB Beau Etling ran for 3 touchdowns and WR Damon Greenberry hauled in two Dave Stireman passes for touchdowns. Greenberry, with 6 TD catches, has taken full advantage the past two weeks with the regions top receiver Norvel Young resting a hamstring injury. Young is expected to play in the first round of the playoffs on June 19th.
Complete offensive & defensive stats to be posted on the RMFL site.
Saturday, June 5
RHINOS MAUL PITBULLS
The Rhino-Raiders ripped the Layton Pitbulls 41-6 for their 54th straight league win Saturday night at Ogden High. With WR Norvel Young taking the night off to nurse an injury after the games first play, WR Damon Greenberry was a one man wrecking crew on offense as he hauled in 8 passes for 202 yards and 4 touchdowns. Otter Tupe rushed for 137 yards and Beau Etling had two rushing touchdowns. QB Dave Stireman threw for 258 yards and 3 touchdowns.
The top ranked defense was downright dominating as they held the Pitbull offense to 5 total yards (-58 yards rushing & 63 yards passing). The defense registered a team record 10 QB sacks on the night led by DT Vaea Fiefia with 3. FS Tony Wolfgramm and CB Ryan Mendoza added interceptions, with LB Jake Phippen recovering a fumble.
Complete offensive & defensive statistics to be posted on the RMFL site.
Thursday, May 27
RHINO-RAIDERS ROUT LONGHORNS
 |  |
South Ogden Rhino-Raiders' Fine Unga visits with teammates during their game against the Layton Longhorns on Thursday at Ben Lomond High School in Ogden. South Ogden won 47-8 to stay unbeaten on the season.
By KYLE OVERDIEK
Standard-Examiner correspondent
OGDEN -- They have youth, talent, experience and most importantly heart.
So it was no surprise when the South Ogden Rhino-Raiders picked up their 53rd straight conference win, 47-8, over the Layton Longhorns at Ben Lomond High School on Thursday night.
In their sixth year of existence, and working toward their fifth straight Rocky Mountain Football League title, not many teams have been able to match or come close to the talent the Rhino Raiders possess.
Where does their success come from?
With a lineup filled with plenty of youth, the heart and soul of the Raiders lies within several veterans of the game.
Many of them at 40 years of age, or close to it, chose to crack helmets instead of listen to the cracking of aging, aching bones.
Anchoring the successful Rhino-Raiders on the offensive side of the ball is 40-year-old quarterback Dave Stireman. The former starting quarterback for Weber State University (1985) is also the Rhino-Raiders' head coach.
His love for the game keeps him coming back year after year to teach the young athletes how to play the game.
Stireman, who took over as head coach for Stu McGinnis in 2001, said, "You know, I keep coming back because of the team we have put together. I feel that I've been fortunate to stay injury free, and until some guy comes along we can develop, I feel good. I don't take that many hits because of our great offensive line, and I feel like I can still get the job done."
Fine Unga is another key player in South Ogden's success. At the age of 38, and maintaining the athletic ability of a 21-year-old, Unga is a stalwart on the defensive side of the ball.
"The first game I played was not football, I picked it up after coming from Hawaii where I was big into rugby," Unga said.
Unga, who plays all over on defense and also takes snaps at running back, did not get into football until his junior year of high school and later played for Weber State.
Unga signed with the Pittsburgh Steelers as a free agent and also played in NFL Europe for five seasons.
"I keep coming back for the love of the game. I have been very fortunate to stay healthy, and it keeps me in great shape," Unga said. "I will stick around until I get my dream job as the kicker."
Unga is a leader off the field as well. He is a youth correction's officer at Mill Creek youth center where he is well respected in the community, making a big difference in many young people's lives. Kelvin Mathews has seniority on the South Ogden roster, still going strong at age 43.
Offensive linemen Phil Sotomayor who also played with Stireman at Weber State, summed it up best saying, "This team has had a lot of success, and we want to not only win the Rocky Mountain Football League championship. This is perhaps our best team yet, and I believe we have a chance to go on to nationals and bring a national championship to South Ogden."
Complete game story and stats posted on the RMFL site.
Saturday, May 22
RHINO-RAIDERS BEAT WILLAMETTE VALLEY 41-7
The Rhino-Raiders lived up to their #1 ranking as they whipped the Willamette Valley (OR) Raiders 41-7 at Ogden High School. QB Dave Stireman threw for 241 yards and 4 touchdowns in 3 quarters and RB Otter Tupe ran for 83 yards and a touchdown as the Rhinos improved to 6-0 on the season. The defense did the rest and they dominated the line of scrimmage and pressured the Raiders QB into several sacks and throw aways as the Oregon team threw the ball virtually every play the entire game.
Offensive Stats
Rushing
Otter Tupe 15-83-1 TD
Fine Unga 5-18-1 TD
Rashad Kennedy 6-33
Rob Morse 2-7
Dave Stireman 1-6
Passing
Dave Stireman 11-17-0-241-4 TD's
Joey Black 1-3-0-3
Receiving
Norvel Young 4-92-2 TD's
Damon Greenberry 3-82-1 TD
Jamaal Peterson 1-10-1 TD
Nick Fotu 1-33
Fine Unga 1-12
Rob Jolley 1-12
Rashad Kennedy 1-3
Defensive Stats
Tackles
Nate Miconi 5.5, Tim Atkinson 4.5, Fine Unga 3, Vaea Fiefia 4, Walter Fiefia 2.5, Shane Dooley 2, Mike Pierce 3.5, Mike Mecham 3, Tony Wolfgramm 2.5, Manu Taeoalii 2, Reggie Jones 3, Jed Davies 4, Derrick Beatty 3, Jake Phippen 3, Ken Perkins 2.5, Ken Anderson 2.5, Levine Tupe 4, Ryan Mendoza 1
Tackles for losses
Manu Taeoalii 2 (-17), Vaea Fiefia 1 (-8), Levine Tupe 1 (-4)
Sacks
Reggie Jones 2, Walter Fiefia 1, Shane Dooley 1, Jake Phippen 1, Ken Anderson 1
Interception
Tim Atkinson
Fumble Recoveries
Walter Fiefia, Mike Sanders, Jay Ochsenbein
Sunday, May 16
RHINOS TO BE FEATURED ON KUTV CHANNEL 2
The Rhino-Raiders will be featured all morning long this Wednesday, May 19th on KUTV Channel 2 from 5:45 to 7:45. They will broadcast live from Ogden High School stadium with many of the Rhino players on hand, along with Rhinestone Dance Team members. KUTV is the local Salt Lake City CBS affiliate.
Many thanks to Ken Perkins, V.P. of Sales & Marketing for putting this special event together.
Saturday, May 15
RHINOS ROLL OVER BLITZ
After spotting the Utah Blitz a 6-0 first quarter lead on two field goals, the Rhino-Raiders exploded for 49 straight points to coast to a 49-6 win over longtime rival Utah Blitz. Dave Stireman tossed 4 touchdowns, two to Damon Greenberry and one each to Norvel Young and Jamaal Peterson. The offensive line (Phil Sotomayor, Todd Wheelwright, Charles Kano, Gary Lucero, Eric Christiansen, Travis Elliott, Carl Silva, Eric Mullen, Dave Baker) was once again dominant as backs Beau Etling (1 td) and Otter Tupe (2 td's), along with Rashad Kennedy, ripped off huge runs. The defense was led by a host a players such as Nate Miconi (int), Jed Davies (int), Vaea Fiefia, Tony Wolfgramm, Reggie Jones, Shane Dooley, Bill Nebeker, Derrick Beatty, Manu Taoealii & Mike Pierce, among others. Rodney Frojker was a perfect 7-7 on PAT's.
Complete statistics are posted on RMFL site.
Tuesday, May 11
RHINOS LOSE SCADDEN FOR SEASON
The bad news was confirmed today as longtime player Ryan Scadden will undergo surgery to repair a ruptured Achilles Tendon suffered in the Madison game. Scadden had developed into a key member of the offense and well as a valued member of the management team. Not only was he instrumental in the offense as a pass catching slotback, but he also served as the backup QB to Dave Stireman. With surgery scheduled for Thursday, team surgeon Dr. John Edwards says that Ryan should return to the field in about 5 months. Ryan says he will be ready for Las Vegas, so now the team needs to get there. Good luck and the team wishes you a speedy recovery.
Saturday, May 8
MADISON OVERPOWERED BY RHINOS
The Rhino-Raiders improved to 4-0 on the season with a 57-17 pasting of the Madison Lionz in Rexburg. The Lionz jumped out to a 17-7 lead early in the second quarter, but the Rhinos then exploded for 50 unanswered points.
Complete scoring summary and stats are posted on the RMFL site.
Saturday, May 1
RHINO DEFENSE TOO MUCH FOR MUSTANGS
The Rhino-Raiders posted their second consecutive shutout with a 28-0 victory over the Idaho Falls Mustangs at Ogden High School. The defense was dominant as they sacked Mustang QB Cody Jackson several times and forced two interceptions. Defensive leaders included Vaea Fiefia (5 sacks), Walter Fiefia (1 sack), Bill Nebeker (1 sack),Derrick Beatty & Jed Davies with one interception apiece. Also making big plays and bone jarring hits on the defense were LB Levine Tupe, SS Jay Yupe, SS Nate Miconi, FS Tony Wilfgramm, DE Shane Dooley, DE Bill Nebeker, DE Mau Taoealii, LB Kengike Vainuku, DT Reggie Jones & LB Mike Pierce.
After being held scoreless in the first half by an outstanding Mustang defense, the Rhino offense erupted for 28 second half points. Norvel Young came up big with two touchdown receptions, one from 16 yards out and the other an electrifying 78 yard catch and run. Beau Etling & Otter Tupe each had rushing touchdowns. The offensive line, led by Phil Sotomayor, Todd Wheelwright, Charles Kano. Gary Lucero, Eric Mullen & Travis Elliott wore down the Mustang defensive line in the second half.
K Rodney Frojker tacked on each extra point, plus he did an excellent job of kicking off and pinning Idaho Falls deep in their own territory to start their series.
Complete team and individual stats will be posted on the RMFL site.
Saturday, April 24
RHINOS ROUT VIPERS 69-0
Led by 3 special teams touchdowns and one from the defense, the Rhino-Raiders beat the Davis Vipers 69-0 at Box Elder High School. Leading the way was DE Shane Dooley, who recovered a blocked punt in the endzone for one touchdown, and then scooped up a fumble cause by a sack by Bill Nebeker and ran 87 yards untouched for another score. Also getting in the special teams scoring action was John Kano who picked up a blocked punt by Jay Tupe and ran it in from 15 yards out. Kengike Vainuku also recovered a blocked punt in the endzone for a first half touchdown.
Offensively, QB's Ryan Scadden threw for four touchdowns as he completed 10 of 13 for 199 yards. Longtime QB Dave Stireman took the day off. Norvel Young had two (one from QB Joey Black) with one each coming from Rashad Kennedy, Jamaal Peterson and TE Nick Fotu. RB Rob Morse capped the scoring with a 17 yard TD run.
The defense was led by Vaea Fiefia who caused 2 fumbles and had 2 sacks.
Complete stats will be posted on the RMFL site Sunday.
Saturday, April 17
RHINOS GRAB ROAD WIN OVER POCATELLO
The Rhino-Raiders opened their 2004 campaign with a convincing 33-13 win over the Pocatello Predators Saturday at Marsh Valley, ID. The Rhinos, minus several starters such as WR Damon Greenberry, TE Nick Fotu, RB/SS Fine Unga, OG Carl Silva, CB Derrick Beatty & DT Walter Fiefia spotted the Predators an early 7-0 lead and then posted 27 straight points to open up a 20 point second half lead. Both teams traded touchdowns in the final minutes to conclude the scoring. The Rhino offense was led by RB Beau Etling, who ran for 128 yards on 28 carries. He added 3 rushing touchdowns, also. QB Dave Stireman threw for 226 yards and two TD's, one to Norvel Young (9 for 169 yards) and one to slotback Ryan Scadden.
Complete offensive and defensive statistics will be posted on the RMFL website by Monday.
Saturday, April 3
RHINO-RAIDERS TO PLAY DIXIE COLLEGE
The Rhino-Raiders have agreed to play an exhibition game at Dixie College on Saturday, September 4th. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. at Hansen Stadium. The Rebels are consistently ranked in the top 5 of all junior college's nationwide. In the only other meeting in 2000, the Rhino-Raiders, without top rusher that season and former Dixie College All America Fine Unga, lost 41-27. In that game, current Philadelphia Eagle Reno Mahe carried the ball 36 times for 124 yards. The Rhino-Raiders, without any rushing game, were led by QB Dave Stireman who threw for 480 yards and 4 TD's.
Friday, March 12
RHINO-RAIDERS AT POCATELLO TO START 2004 SEASON
A new team in Mountain Home, ID has filled the spot vacated by Price Outlawz. A complete story about them can be found on the RMFL site. The Rhino-Raiders, under the old schedule, were to be at Price in week 1. However, the schedule has been altered and the Rhino-Raiders will open the 2004 season against the Pocatello Predators at Marsh Valley High School in Arimo. Arimo is 40 miles north of the Utah/Idaho border on I-15.
Sunday, February 29
NATIONAL FOOTBALL EVENTS NAMES 2004 ALL AMERICAN TEAM
National Football Events has chosen their 2004 All American team and the only Rhino-Raider making any of the first three teams is DE VAEA FIEFIA as a 2nd teamer. Named on the Honorable Mention team were WR Norvel Young, C Todd Wheelwright, LB Levine Tupe & QB Dave Stireman. These teams were made up primarily of players from the midwest and east as this publication is based out of Illinois.
Tuesday, February 3
GRISBY IS NEW DEFENSIVE COORDINATOR
The Rhino-Raiders are proud to annouce that Eric Grisby has joined the team as the Defensive Coordinator. Eric has held the same position at Northridge High School the past 8 years and has been instrumental in the Knights winning three of the past four 5A high School state football titles. He will continue to serve in that capacity this fall. Eric is originally from Atwater, CA, he was a JC All American defensive back at Merced (CA) Junior College before finishing out an outstanding collegiate career at Utah State. "The only thing that has been inconsistent about of defense over the past few years has been that coaching presence on the sidelines," said Dave Stireman. "Eric brings a great defensive scheme and instant credibility to our talented defense."
DO YOU WANT TO RUN FASTER & JUMP HIGHER?
The Rhino Raiders are proud to announce that the cost for this program all Rhino-Raiders players is now only $100.00. Normal rate is $375.00 per person.
The program consists of the following:
*One-on-one personal training
*Individualized program to fit each players needs, ie: weight loss, faster 40 yard dash, strength or endurance.
*The program lasts 6 weeks, 3 days a week, 2 hours per day.
*Players can go at own leisure from 12 noon to 8 p.m. Monday-Friday.
The Human Performance Center is located at the Stewart Rehabilitation Center next to Smith's at 42nd and Harrison Blvd. The HPC offers the most up to date technology to create a more complete athlete. The programs are individualized to develop speed, strength and endurance, while helping to minimize injury. Anyone interested should contact Stewart at 626-8933, Dave at 628-0824 or Ryan Scadden at 814-4861.
Monday, January 26
OGDEN HIGH IS HOME FOR THE 5TH STRAIGHT YEAR
The Rhino-Raiders will continue to play their home games at Ogden High School during the 2004 season. The Rhino-Raiders looked into other possibilities with the departure of Ogden High Coach John Filiaga. However, Athletic Director Phil Russell very much wanted the Rhino-Raiders to remain part of the Ogden High environment. "The partnership has been a tremendous asset in our fundraising efforts for all of our athletic programs, plus everyone involved loves watching the Rhino-Raiders play each Saturday night during the spring & summer months," said Coach Russell.
In an effort to thank our fans and players from Box Elder & Cache Counties, the Rhino-Raiders will also play one "home game" at Box Elder High School in Brigham City. This will also serve as a huge fundraiser for the Bees' athletic programs. Which game it will be will be announced in the coming weeks.
The Rhino-Raiders have also had discussions about the possibility of playing their July home game at Bonneville High School in Ogden against the Denver Titans. Bonneville has never hosted a semi-pro football game and is interested in hosting the high profile game between the two western powers. The Rhino-Raiders are awaiting word from the Titans on which date will fit into their schedule. The proposed date is July 17th.
Friday, January 16
F.W.F.A. CHAMPIONSHIP GAME FILM
Game film of arguably the greatest game in Rhino-Raider history is available now. Please call Ryan @ 814-4861 to order your copy. Price will be cost of tape plus a buck or two.
Monday, January 12
RHINOS HEADLINE AFA ALL AMERICAN TEAM
For the first time in team history, two Rhino-Raider players have been named to the 2003 AFA All American 1st team. The two selected were Todd Wheelwright at center and Bill Nebeker at defensive end. Both players have been longtime members of the team and both are very much deserving of this honor. The Rhinos also had two players named to the 2nd team as WR Damon Greenberry and TE Nick Fotu were both selected. Several players were listed as honorable mention including OL Phil Sotomayor, OL Carl Silva, OL Travis Elliott, OL Gary Lucero, DB Nate Miconi, DT Vaea Fiefia, DT Walter Fiefia, WR Norvel Young, CB Jed Davies, DB Jay Tupe, LB Levine Tupe & Rodney Frojker, honored as a punter.
Here is the list:
1st Team
C Todd Wheelwright
DE Bill Nebeker
2nd Team
WR Damon Greenberry
TE Nick Fotu
Honorable Mention
DT Vaea Fiefia
DT Walter Fiefia
DB Nate Miconi
DB Jay Tupe
CB Jed Davies
LB Levine Tupe
OL Phil Sotomayor
OL Carl Silva
OL Travis Elliott
OL Gary Lucero
WR Norvel Young
P Rodney Frojker
Congratulations to all who made this prestigous team.
Monday, December 29
YOUNG & FOTU EARN NATIONAL HONORS
WR Norvel Young & TE Nick Fotu were named the top players at their respective positions in the AAA West by the Minor League Football News for the 2003 season. MLFN does not do an "all american" per se, but names one player by position, by region in AAA, AA & A divisions. This is a tremendous honor because the players named have been chosen by performance. Norvel & Nick have consistently performed for the Rhino-Raiders and are clearly the best of the best. Plus they are two great teammates. Congratulations on this great honor and expect another outstanding 2004 season from both.
Dave Stireman was also named as the wests' Team Owner of the Year. Congratulations Dave, on running a first class organization.
Friday, December 26
RHINO-RAIDERS HIGH IN ALL MAJOR RANKINGS
The year end rankings are complete in most of the major polls and the Rhino-Raiders are near the top in most. Here is the lastest rankings:
National Football Events
Western Region
1. Eastside (WA) Hawks (14-3)
2. S. Ogden Rhino-Raiders (15-2)
3. Denver Titans (12-1)
4. So. Cal Steelers (11-3)
5. Las Vegas Bulldogs (12-1)
6. Capital City (CA) Fury (13-1)
7. Inglewood CA) Blackhawks (13-3)
8. King County (WA) Jaguars (9-3)
9. Daly City (CA) Renegades (11-2)
10. San Gabriel (CA) Rhinos (10-4)
National Football Events
National Top 20
1. Kane County (IL) Eagles (16-0)
2. Brooklyn (NY) Mariners (16-0)
3. Middle Georgia Stallions Southern (17-0)
4. St Paul (MN) Pioneers (11-1)
5. Detroit (MI) Seminoles (10-1)
6. Eastside (WA) Hawks (14-3)
7. Atlanta (GA) Prime (11-1)
8. Virginia Hornets (15-1)
9. Austin (TX) Gamebreakers (12-2)
10. New Jersey Terminators (12-3)
11. S. Ogden Rhino-Raiders (15-2)
12. Minnesota Maulers (9-1)
13. Glens Falls (NY) Green Jackets (15-2)
14. Indiana Tornadoes (12-2)
15. Denver (CO) Titans (12-1)
16. Cleveland (OH) Lions (11-2)
17. Central PA Piranha (12-2)
18. Carolina (NC) Eagles 14-1)
19. Southern (CA) Steelers (11-3)
20. Belleville (IL) Justice (13-1)
American Football News
West Power Rankings -Fall
1 St. Paul (MN) Pioneers
2 South Ogden (UT) Rhino-Raiders
3 Eastside (WA) Hawks
4 Capital City (CA) Fury
5 Minnesota Maulers
6 Denver (CO) Titans
7 Springfield (MO) Rifles
8 Houston (TX) Wolverines
9 Rochester (MN) Giants
10 King County (WA) Jaguars
Minor League Football News
AAA National Winter/Spring Teams
1. Wichita Falls Drillers (12-0)
2. S. Ogden Rhino-Raiders (15-2)
3. St. Petersburg Sharks (12-1)
4. Knights of Miami (10-1)
5. Capital City Fury (12-1)
6. Houston Gunners (7-0)
7. Houston Wolverines (12-1-1)
8. New Mexico Rams (10-0)
9. Shreveport Gladiators (10-1)
10. Madison Lionz (9-1)
Tuesday, December 23
OGDEN HIGH'S COACH FILIAGA RESIGNS
Citing the desire to spend more time with his family, John Filiaga has resigned as head football coach at Ogden High School after 6 seasons. John has been an unbelievable supporter of the Rhino-Raiders over the years and we not only thank him for all he has done, but we wish him well in his future endeavors, which undoubtedly will include football. Because, after all, he is a football coach. And a good one.
With John now departed, the Rhino-Raiders are exploring several invitations to relocate their home games to another Ogden area high school. Look for an announcement in January. Until then, Ogden High is still home and may continue to be.
AUTHENTIC RHINO-RAIDER MINI-HELMETS AVAILABLE
Along with T-shirts and bucket hats, the Rhino-Raiders will now be selling authentic mini-helmets complete with Rhino decals. Contact Dave for all Rhino-Raiders merchandise at 801-499-6262 or rhinoraider13@aol.com.
Prices:
Mini-Helmets $25.00
Bucket Hats $15.00
T-Shirts $10.00
Sunday, December 14
RHINO-RAIDERS WIN OVERTIME THRILLER
CLICK ABOVE LINK FOR STEELERS' GAME PHOTOS
The Rhino-Raiders capped off another outstanding season with an incredible 46-40 overtime victory over the Southern California Steelers in the Far West Football Association Championship game last night in Las Vegas.
After the Steelers took a 14-12 halftime lead which saw both defenses playing well, the second half turned into a shootout led by two of the nations top passing offenses.
The Rhino-Raiders took the second half kickoff and methodically marched down the field capped off by a short TD run by David Fiefia. After the two point pass play from Dave Stireman to Ryan Scadden, the Rhinos led 20-14. That lead didn't last long as Steeler QB Mark Wilson hit speedy receiver Dee Brown for a 40 yard TD to tie the score at 20. (PAT failed) The Rhino-Raiders answered with another TD drive capped by a Stireman to Norvel Young pass covering 25 yards making the score 27-20 near the end of the 3rd.
The Steelers responded with Wilson scrambling to avoid heavy pressure and then throwing the ball up for grabs down field with Brown catching it and then running it in for a 60 yard TD pass. Score 27-27 early in 4th. The Rhinos once again, now clicking offensively on all cylinders, marched right back down field capped by a Fiefia TD run from 15 yards out to push the lead to 33-27, after the PAT failed. The Steelers then scored again on a long TD pass from Wilson to Brown, this one covering 42 yards and after the kick, the Steelers led 34-33 with about 6 minutes to play. The Rhinos then marched down field, but after a completion to Damon Greenberry, the Rhinos fumbled giving the ball to the Steelers at mid-field with about 4 minutes to go. After a 15 yard penalty and a couple of short runs, Steelers QB Wilson hit Dee Brown for a 3rd TD from 36 yards out to increase the Steeler lead with 1:45 remaining to 40-33. (PAT failed)
From there it was all Stireman and his unequaled team of receivers (Young, Greenberry, Scadden, James Owens and TE Nick Fotu), plus an offensive line (Carl Silva, Eric Christiansen, Todd Wheelwright, Jon Cook, Travis Elliott and Charles Kano) that did not allow a sack the entire game. Stireman hit every receiver as he completed 8 straight passes capped off by a 12 yard TD to Young with 11 seconds left. After the PAT, the score was 40-40 at the end of regulation.
The Rhinos won the toss and then mixed up run and pass with the big play in the drive a 45 yard pass play to Owens which set the Rhinos up with first and goal at the 8 in overtime. From there, Fiefia took a quick draw play down to the one and then ended the game with a TD run over the left for the game winner.
Defensively, the Rhinos were led by Vaea Fiefia, Walter Fiefia, Shane Dooley, Bill Nebeker, Reggie Jones, Mike Pierce, Mau Taeoalii, Junior Baker, Mike Sumko (1 interception) and Jay Tupe. The Rhino defense, already short-handed due to the unavailability of CB Trevor Bell (torn stomach muscle), LB Levine Tupe (virus) and SS Nate Miconi, who was taken to a local hospital in the first half with a leg injury. Plus, virtually every back up defensive back for the team did not travel to the game. The defense held the Steelers to less than 75 yards rushing, but due to injury and and being short-handed in the secondary, they couldn't keep the Steelers from making a handful of big pass plays. But in the end, the defense tightened and offense got it done.
Offensively, Stireman completed 25 of 33 for 374 yards and 4 TD's. Fiefia carried the ball 14 times for 135 yards and 3 TD's. Young had 8 grabs for 139 yards and 3 TD's. Greenberry had 6 catches for 88 yards. Owens 4 receptions for 93 yards and 1 TD. Fotu & Scadden had 3 receptions apiece.
Sunday, October 5
RHINO-RAIDERS RUN OUT OF GAS; LOSE TO HAWKS
The Rhino-Raiders suffered their second loss of the season at the hands of the Eastside (WA) Hawks in 2nd round NAFL playoff action 52-30. The Rhino-Raiders finish their season with an overall record of 14-2.
Sunday, September 28
RHINO-RAIDER DEFENSE DOMINATES JAGUARS
The Rhino-Raiders opened up NAFL playoff action with a 20-2 drubbing of the King County (WA) Jaguars Saturday night at Ogden High School.
Dave Stireman connected on two first half touchdown passes. One to Norvel Young from 15 yards out and the other to Damon Greenberry from 55 yards. Rodney Frojker added a 50 yard field goal to put the Rhinos up 17-0 at the half.
The Rhino-Raider defense was dominating the entire game holding the Jaguar offense well under 100 yards of total offense for the game. The defense was led by Vaea & Walter Fiefia, Levine Tupe, Nate Miconi, Trevor Bell, Mike Piere, Mike Sumko, Junior Baker, Garrett White, Bill Nebeker, Manu Taeolii, Willis Mickles, Reggie Jones, Shane Dooley, Drake Rowe, Ken Perkins, Jed Davies, Chad Spendlove, Ryan Mendoza & Jeremy Smith. Yes, I mentioned everyone on the team that plays defense as the entire unit was instrumental in not allowing any points. The Jaguars points came on blocked punt that was alertly batted through the endzone by Norvel Young. Frojker added a 45 yard second half field goal to cap the Rhino-Raider scoring.
Typically a throwing team, and with still over 250 yards passing for the night, the Rhino-Raider offensive line led featuring Phil Sotomayor, Todd Wheelwright, Travis Elliott, Gary Lucero, Charles Kano, Eric Christiansen and Jon Cook and TE Nick Fotu contolled the line of scrimmage which allowed backs Rob Morse, Terrance Marks and Rashad Kennedy to continually get big gainers on the ground.
In the other NAFL Northwest region 1st round playoff game, the Eastside Hawks beat the Wasatch Wildcats tonight in Seattle 47-20.
The Rhino-Raiders will host the Hawks on Saturday, October 4th at Ogden High School. The kickoff is tentatively set for 1 p.m. due to a previously scheduled youth football triple-header that begins at 4 p.m.
Sunday, September 7
RHINO-RAIDERS ROUT WILDCATS
Dave Stireman fired 3 first half touchdowns as the Rhino-Raiders raced out to a 39-0 halftime lead and cruised to a 39-7 blowout victory over the Wasatch Wildcats Saturday night at Ogden High School. Terrance Marks added two rushing touchdowns to go with Damon Greenberry with two through the air. Rob Morse also added a first half rushing touchdeown as well as Norvel Young making a spectacular grab on a Stireman 27 yard TD throw.
The Rhino-Raiders (13-1,7-1) capture the Rocky Mountain Division crown and the #1 seed in the northwest region of the NAFL playoffs set to begin on September 27th. The Rhino-Raiders will have home field advantage at least through the first three rounds as long as they stay alive.
The resounding victory came after their only loss of the year back on August 2nd in Orem against these same Wildcats 30-26. In that game, the Wildcats took advantage of turnovers and kickoff returns to operate on a short field. In this game, the Rhino-Raiders would have none of that as they only turned the ball over once on a pass that richocheted through the hands and off a knee of a Rhino receiver. QB Dave Stireman hit Damon Greenberry on the third play of the game on a short post and Grennberry raced 58 yards to open the scoring. It was all Rhino-Raiders as they scored at will and led 39-0 at the half.
The second half was about running the clock and playing everyone on the Rhino roster as they only gave up a late touchdown pass against reserve defenders.
Defensively, the Rhinos dominated everywhere as Walter & Vaea Fiefia, Levine Tupe, Bill Nebeker, Mike Sumko, Trevor Bell, Manu Taeolii, Shane Dooley, Reggie Jones and Mike Pierce all turned in outstanding efforts.
The Rhino-Raiders will now await their September 27th first round playoff opponent. Who they will play will be determined shortly.
Friday, August 29
VAEA FIEFIA HONORED AS NATIONAL PLAYER OF WEEK
The one man wrecking crew, DT Vaea Fiefia, was named national player of the week by both the North American Football League and Minor League Football News after his outstanding play against the Southern California Steelers. Vaea will receive a P.O.W. certificate from the MLFN for his efforts.
Click above link for story on NAFL website.
Tuesday, August 26
MARC RUBIN PASSES AWAY
OGDEN - Marc David Rubin, age 54, was called up to the "Big League" by the Heavenly Manager on August 25, 2003.
Marc was diagnosed with cancer less than a month ago and spent his last days and weeks surrounded by family and friends. His courage, sense of humor, and concern for everyone else but himself gave great strength to all of his loved ones.
Marc was born in Ogden, on February 8, 1949 and attended Ogden City Schools, graduating from Ogden High School in 1967. He may or may not have graduated from Weber State University where no one knows how many years he attended.
Marc founded SavOn Sporting Goods in 1978 and for 25 years has established himself as not only a respected business owner, but also a community member dedicated to the well being of the youth of Ogden through wholesome sports programs. He loved all sports and could always be found at Weber State volleyball, basketball, and football games. He was an avid Ogden Raptor"s fan and also attended countless school and little league games.
The legacy Marc leaves behind, how he conducted his life and SavOn Sports, is the spirit of helping people around him.
Marc is survived by his loving and cherished son, Adam; the love of his life, Ellen Gardiner; his sister, Bobbi (Joe) DeGrado and niece Jorja; his brother Mike (Susan) Rubin, and nephew Little Mike. He also leaves behind countless true and loyal friends and wonderful extended family that he considered part of his family.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Herman and Lillian Rubin.
Funeral services will be held on Thursday, August 28, 2003 at 1:30 p.m. at Leavitt"s Mortuary, 836 36th Street, Ogden, Utah. Friends may call on Wednesday, August 27, 2003 from 6 to 8 p.m. as well as one hour prior to services on Thursday. Let"s play ball!
Interment at Leavitt"s Aultorest Memorial Park
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a special "Marc Rubin" little league trust fund at the Bank of Utah, the proceeds of which will be used to sponsor youth teams and individuals of all sports in the Ogden area.
Condolences may be sent to the family at www.leavittsmortuary.com
Sunday, August 24
RHINO-RAIDERS FLY BY STEELERS
Rhino-Raiders' aerial attack stops Steelers
Sun, Aug 24, 2003
By CHRIS CHRISTENSEN
Standard-Examiner correspondent
OGDEN -- The South Ogden Rhino-Raiders are taking advantage of having joined the North American Football League and are beginning to run away from some quality teams.
Saturday night was no different in that South Ogden had to go to a tough passing attack rather than run the ball and was still able to come away with a 35-25 victory over the Southern California Steelers at Ogden High School.
"The problem we had tonight was that they had a tough run defense," South Ogden coach Dave Stireman said. "We also were missing three of our normal starting offensive linemen due to injuries and previous engagements. But our passing came through when we needed it."
Things started well for South Ogden, as it scored three touchdowns in the first half. Receiver Damon Greenberry was on the receiving end of two touchdown passes from Stireman covering 23 and 30 yards. Trevor Bell also caught a touchdown pass in the second quarter.
Southern California went to special teams to light the scoreboard. Return specialist Jeff Slater took a kickoff back 88 yards for a score and also caught a touchdown pass to keep things close in the first half.
In the second half, it was the Norvel Young show. Young caught two touchdown passes, both from Stireman, and finished with four catches in the second half for 123 yards to keep the defense off balance.
The defense also held tough for the Rhino-Raiders, as they piled up eight second-half sacks and came up with a couple of key turnovers to stall long Steelers" drives. Jay and Levine Tupe led the defense while South Ogden"s passing attack accumulated more than 300 yards.
The normally sure-handed Rhino-Raiders coughed up 6 fumbles and vitually every time they scored, the ensuing kickoff was returned deep into Rhino-Raider territory. However, the Rhino-Raider passing attack and tenacious defense kept them comfortably in the lead most of the game.
The Rhino-Raiders return to Ogden High on Saturday, September 6th to face the Wasatch Wildcats in a key NAFL game. The Wildcats won the first meeting in Orem 30-26 on August 2nd. Game time, along with a preview, will be posted in the coming days.
Thursday, August 14
AN OPEN LETTER TO A FRIEND
As a young, 19 year old kid, fresh out of California, I moved to Ogden to play football at Weber State. As a sports guy all of my life, I naturally looked for the best sporting goods store around. It was then, in 1984, that I came to know the Rubin family at Savon Sporting Goods in Ogden.
From my days at Weber State through my professional playing career overseas into the early 1990's, Lil Rubin and son Marc were always there. You name it, I got it from Savon. From all types of sports balls to all sports clothing to ball bats to buying a few dozen pairs of football cleats and hauling them to Italy with me each year to give to my teammates, Savon was there.
Some years ago, I and we lost a great friend in Lil. Sons Marc and Mike have continued the legacy of providing outstanding service to many of us in Northern Utah. They have outfitted thousands of sports teams from the youth leagues to college teams to semi-pro teams like the Rhino-Raiders. Savon has been the official and only sporting goods store of the Rhino-Raiders since the team was founded in 1998. And it is especially evident with the young children of our community that the Rubin's have made the greatest impact. From their countless sponsorships to just calling my son 'little Stire' when he walks through the door down at Savon, the smiles they have put on the faces of all youngsters has been immeasurable.
It is now that I take a step back and thank my friends at Savon, especially Marc Rubin, who is battling cancer. Marc, like my mother who I lost two years ago to cancer, has and had attitudes of unbelievable optimism. The doctors say it doesn't look good, but if there is a person on earth that can will himself to better health, it is Marc Rubin.
So from my family to Marc and his family, including his extended family down at Savon, our thoughts and prayers are with you everyday.
Dave Stireman
Sunday, August 3
RHINO-RAIDERS SQUANDER LEAD; LOSE TO WASATCH
The Rhino-Raiders, playing their first game in three weeks, lost Saturday night to the Wasatch Wildcats 30-26 at Mountain View High School.
The Rhino-Raiders were up 26-14 in th second half, but two tipped passes at the line of scrimage resulting in Wildcat interceptions with short fields to work with, a Wildcat 82 yard kickoff return for a touchdown, a blocked punt which resulted in a safety for the Wildcats, two blocked extra points, and several starters missing or injured early in the game spelled doom for the Rhino-Raiders.
The Rhino-Raiders lost starting left tackle Phil Sotomayor on the first series with a torn muscle and with 3 other starters along the offensive line missing the game, a collection of back ups, defensive linemen and tight ends did a valiant job shoring up the offensive line. Also, injured was SS Nate Miconi. The former All Big Sky Conference defender at Northern Arizona re-aggravated a hamstring injury in the first quarter and did not return. Also getting hurt in the first half was starting free safety Ken Perkins. Perkins twisted a knee and did not return. Couple those injuries with missing starters RB/LB Fine Unga, LB Cody Burton, CB Derrick Beatty, OT Gary Lucero, OG Travis Elliott, OG Carl Silva, RB, Rob Morse, DL Walter Fiefia and DE Jeff Ross, along with several key backups, and the Rhino-Raiders just ran out of gas against a very good Wasatch team. Wasatch has added much depth to their team since earlier in the season, including former Weber State LB Naki Pilivi, a top player who had previously committed to the Rhino-Raiders.
With the loss, the Rhino-Raiders fall to 5-1 in NAFL play and 11-1 overall. The Rhino-Raiders return to action at Ogden High on Saturday, August 23rd versus the Southern California Steelers. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m.
Note: The Rhino-Raiders wil also host this same Wildcats team on either September 6th or 13th at Ogden High. The game is currently scheduled for the 6th, but with the Weber State/Southern Utah game scheduled at the same time, the Rhino-Raiders are likely to move the game to the 13th, pending NAFL approval.
Wednesday, July 16
SPOKANE NIGHTMARE PULL PLUG ON TEAM
Due to serious financial difficulties, Colan Sewell, Chief Operating Officer of the Spokane Nightmare has discontinued operations of the Nightmare football team. Mr. Sewell notified Rhino-Raider management by telephone today that they will forfeit this Saturday's game in Spokane to the Rhino-Raiders and will not play anymore games in 2003. More development will be posted as they become available.
Sunday, July 13
RHINO-RAIDERS CLAIM 4TH STRAIGHT TITLE
Sun, July 13, 2003
By JON YORGASON
Standard-Examiner correspondent
OGDEN -- They don"t blow opponents out every game like they used to, but the South Ogden Rhino-Raiders are still the best team in the ever-improving Utah Football League.
Behind a stellar defensive effort and a huge second half from former Weber State running back Fine Unga, the Rhino-Raiders captured their fourth straight league championship with a 27-14 win over the Utah Blitz Saturday night at Ogden High School.
South Ogden (11-0) also overcame numerous penalties and a lackluster offensive performance to beat the Blitz (8-3) for the third time this year.
Unga, easily the best running back in the league, played exclusively on defense in the first half and generally stays there unless the team needs an offensive spark. And that"s exactly what the Rhino-Raiders were looking for in the third quarter after playing to a 7-7 tie in the opening half.
Unga paid immediate dividends, rushing for 31 yards on his first four carries. While the Raiders didn"t reach the end zone on that opening drive, the infusion of energy was provided and South Ogden controlled the rest of the game.
Unga scored two fourth quarter touchdowns, one from three yards out following a 57-yard interception return by Jay Tupe, and another from 45 yards away. On the long TD run, Unga side-stepped a Blitz defender at the line of scrimmage, broke right, and then with a tremendous burst of speed, raced down the South Ogden sideline untouched into the end zone.
"That sidestep was actually a trip," Unga said. "I was just trying to catch myself. The offensive line -- Charles Kano and Phil Sotomayor -- just a great job of blocking. It was an old Weber State counter and those guys blocked it perfect and it was wide open. It was luck on my part."
Unga finished with 81 yards rushing on just 10 carries.
"Fine Unga is a guy who"s just in a class by himself," said South Ogden quarterback/coach/owner Dave Stireman. "We"ve got some really good players on this team, but when we get into some situations, Fine"s just the guy you need to feed the ball to. And we got into that situation tonight where (Utah) got a little pressure on me throwing the football and I got happy feet, so there"s nothing better to slow that pass rush down than to pop that ball to him."
Prior to Tupe"s interception, it was another defensive play that gave South Ogden the lead for good.
With 5:57 remaining in the third quarter, the Blitz fumbled the ball and the Raiders" Cody Burton scooped it up and ran the other direction 40 yards for a touchdown and a 14-7 Rhino-Raiders advantage.
South Ogden never trailed in the game. With just over a minute left in the first period, Stireman threw a bullet to receiver Norvel Young for a 45-yard touchdown and a 7-0 lead.
That lead would remain until the closing seconds of the half. With :07 left, Utah running back Jeremy Smith hit Kyle Ashby with a 28-yard halfback touchdown pass to knot the score at seven. The play was set up by 45 yards of Rhino-Raider penalties -- one pass interference call, a person foul and an unsportsmanlike conduct.
Utah"s other score came with 8:33 left in the third quarter, when quarterback Josh Nielson scrambled and found Mike Sagapolu wide open for a 15-yard touchdown.
With the win, the Rhino-Raiders notched their 44th consecutive Utah Football League victory. On a somber note, veteran DB Jed Davies was lost for the season after breaking his arm on the opening kickoff.
Sunday, June 29
RHINO-RAIDERS ADVANCE TO 4TH STRAIGHT TITLE GAME
Sun, June 29, 2003
Standard-Examiner staff
OGDEN -- The South Ogden Rhino-Raiders broke away from the Davis Vipers to claim a 40-14 victory on Saturday night in the Utah Football League semifinals at Ogden High School.
In the other game, the Utah Blitz whipped the Utah Warriors 34-6. That sets up a showdown between the Blitz (7-2, 8-2) and Rhino-Raiders (9-0, 10-0) on July 12 at Ogden High School.
On June 21, the Rhino-Raiders edged the Blitz 23-22. South Ogden has won 43 UFL games in row.
Saturday"s hero was quarterback Ryan Scadden, who passed for four touchdowns and ran for a fifth to lead the Rhino Raiders, who led 19-0 at halftime.
After the half, the Vipers" Nash Montoya ran the kickoff back 95 yards to cut the lead to 19-6. After the Davis defense blocked a punt out of the end zone for two points, the Vipers felt they might have a shot.
But the Rhino-Raiders responded to put the game out of reach.
Scadden, a former Weber High standout, completed two long TD passes to Cole Boyer, and one each to Rob Jolley and Damon Greenberry. South Ogden"s final TD came on a 40-yard reverse run by Rashad Kennedy.
Defensively, coach Dave Stireman credited Bill Nebeker and Jay Tupe with a solid effort. Mike Pierce added a fumble recovery and Drake Rowe recorded an interception.
The Vipers" final score came on a 60-yard TD pass play from Shane Bitton to Brannon Stacey.
Defensively, Davis got strong effort from Andy Schindler, Mike Christensen and Montoya as well as Brent Lewis and Lynn Tolbert.
Davis finished its season with a 5-6 overall record.
"We"re getting better every year," Vipers" coach Rex Stacey said. "Next season will be a strong one for us. We"ve got some younger guys that are ready to bloom," said Stacey, who will coach the UFL All-Stars against the Rocky Mountain Football League All-Stars on July 19.
Sunday, June 22
GREENBERRY, RHINO-RAIDERS RALLY TO EDGE BLITZ
Click on above link for Standard Examiner photos
By CHRIS CHRISTENSEN
Standard-Examiner correspondent
OGDEN - In football, everyone talks about the need for a great kicker.
The South Ogden Rhino-Raiders have one in Rodney Frojker.
Trailing for the first time in awhile, the Rhino-Raiders rallied for a second-half comeback - sparked by Frojker"s game-winning 32-yard field goal - to defeat the Utah Blitz 23-22 at Ogden High School Saturday night.
"That is a good team," South Ogden coach Dave Stireman said. "It never fails us. We beat a pretty good team the first time and they get things figured out for awhile in the second game. Hats off to them for playing a great game."
It took the Raiders" offense awhile to get started, but once they did, they were like a freight train that couldn"t be stopped.
After giving up the game"s first 19 points to the Blitz, the Rhino-Raiders went to work.
Utah scored on two long touchdown passes to lead the game 13-0 at the half.
Another long bomb put concern on the faces of South Ogden, but Utah"s kicking game missed two straight extra point attempts to leave the door open for the Rhino-Raiders.
Having never really been in this position before, Stireman and Co. tried a different approach than their usual passing attack.
Behind the running of Terrance Marks, the Rhino-Raiders chipped away at the lead.
Nick Fotu hauled in an 18-yard touchdown pass to tighten the score.
Then, after a Blitz field goal made it 22-7, Marks pounded one in from 1-yard out to pull even closer.
Marks added another scamper, this time a 5-yard blast with just over two minutes left in the game.
However, the subsequent two-point conversion failed to tie the game.
Still trailing by two points, the Rhino-Raiders" defense, led by Jay Tupe and Levine Tupe, stuffed Utah on a third-and-long situation and got the ball back for the offense one last time.
Stireman, who had been off all game, was able to get the offense down the field and get Frojker in position to kick the game-winner.
"If you"re a kicker, you know its good when it leaves your foot," Frojker said of his kick. "I just tried not to think about it."
Stireman struggled, throwing four interceptions, but made some key throws when they counted, including a 23-yard pass to Cole Boyer on third down to get the Rhino-Raiders in the red zone for their third touchdown. Marks had an impressive day, carrying the ball 18 times for 88 yards and two scores.
The Rhino-Raiders were without the services of several top players including WR Norvel Young (hamstring), RB Fine Unga (coaching all-star football team in Tonga), DL Walter & Vaea Fiefia (now playing with indoor Warriors), CB Derrick Beatty (work), LB Cody Burton (neck) & CB Mike Sumko (playing in all-star game in Japan).
The Rhino-Raiders wish to acknowledge the unbelievable, all-around play of Damon Greenberry. Playing with the flu, and showing its effects on the playing field several times during the game, Greenberry, despite all of the Blitz' defensive focus without Norvel Young playing, still made several key catches, returned all punts and kicks and even recovered a Blitz fumble while playing safety and returned it 50 yards down to the Blitz 5 to set up a touchdown. Damon had the large crowd on its feet several times during the game.
Also of note, QB Dave Stireman suffered an injury to his throwing hand in the first quarter. Pending x-rays, his status for the upcoming playoffs is unknown.
Monday, June 16
RHINOS RECLAIM TOP SPOT IN AAA RANKINGS
In the latest issue of Minor League Football News, the Rhino-Raiders have once again ascended to the #1 spot in the AAA Winter/Spring rankings. The Rhinos have jumped ahead of the Wichita Falls (TX) Drillers, who have completed their season at 12-0. This is the 4th consecutive year that the Rhinos have held this spot. In 2000, the team finished the season #1 in the AA ranks. The past two seasons, 2001 & 2002, the Rhinos have finished their season as the #1 AAA of teams that play this time of year. Maintaining this spot will not be easy as the Rhino-Raiders have several upcoming games against very good opponents starting this Saturday at home against the Utah Blitz. The Blitz are 7-1 and currently ranked #9 in the same rankings, with their only loss coming at the hands of the Rhino-Raiders back on May 10th in Payson 32-14. The Rhino-Raiders also are scheduled to play at the Spokane Nightmare, at home vs. the Southern California Steelers, and two games vs. the Wasatch Wildcats.
Saturday, June 14
RHINO-RAIDERS RUN PAST VIPERS
Ogden Standard Examiner Staff
OGDEN - Quarterback Dave Stireman threw three touchdowns to lead the South Ogden Rhino-Raiders past the Davis Vipers 48-7 Saturday night in Utah Football League action at Ogden High School.
Stireman connected first to Norvel Young from 35 yards out.
He then hit Damon Greenberry from 45 yards out.
His third touchdown pass went to tight end Nick Fotu from 35 yards as the Raiders put seven touchdowns on the scoreboard.
Running back Rob Morse added rushing scores from 20 yards and five yards out.
And the Raiders other back, Terrance Marks, added scored from eight and 10 yards on the ground.
"Defensively we played well. Defensive backs Jay Tupe, Jed Davies and Nate Miconi all played very well," Stireman said. "On the defensive line, Manu Taeolii also had a nice game.
"We just played well," Stireman continued. "In all fairness to the Vipers, they have several players out with injuries, so our players controlled the line of scrimmage. They were just short-handed. They are a much better team than the score (indicated)."
The victory was the Raiders' 41st straight league win.
Saturday, June 7
RHINOS AVOID LETDOWN WITH WIN OVER BULLDOGS
After the big road win in Denver last week, the Rhino-Raiders were prime for a letdown. However, no letdown happened as the Rhino-Raiders won convincingly over the West Jordan Bulldogs 45-10.
QB Nate Cardenas stepped in for #1 signal caller Dave Stireman and fired four touchdown passes to go with 300 yards in the air. At the receiving end of the TD passes were Norvel Young with two and Damon Greenberry & Rob Jolley with one each. Rob Morse and Terrance Marks added rushing touchdowns and Rodney Frojker kicked a 40 yard field goal to cap the Rhino scoring.
Stireman, along with Walter & Vaea Fiefia, Jay & Levine Tupe, Fine Unga, Derrick Beatty, Anthony Dozier, Willis Mickles, Carl Silva and Ryan Mendoza, all of whom are starters, did not play in the game.
The defense, without 7 starters, played tremendously. Bill Nebeker, Nate Miconi, Manu Taeolii, Shane Dooley, Jay Ochsenbein, Jed Davies, Ken Perkins, Ken Anderson and Mike Pierce all had standout efforts.
Sunday, June 1
RHINO-RAIDERS BEAT TITANS IN DENVER
Thornton, CO: The defending AAA Winter/Spring National Champion Rhino-Raiders (6-0) notched their second straight win over the Denver Titans 24-17.
The Rhino defense was dominating from the first play as SS Jay Tupe led the way with big hits. However, the big surprise was the major improvement of the Titan defense. Denver held the high-powered Rhino offense to just 3 first half points and went into halftime tied 3-3. Things did not look good for the Rhino offense in the second quarter when QB Dave Stireman took a hit from behind as he threw a pass and lay motionless on the field for several seconds. The veteran QB got to his feet, but it was obvious that he was hurt.
After trading punts to open the 3rd, Stireman appeared to have regained his form as he engineered a long drive culminating in a 30 yard scoring strike to Damon Greenberry to give the Rhinos a 9-3 lead, after the extra point was blocked. The Rhinos extended their lead to 17-3 on the next possession as the defense forced the Titans to punt, where Jay Tupe blocked it and recovered it in the end zone. The two point conversion was good. After a terrific kick return which gave the Titans great field position inside the Rhino 40, they capitalized with a long scoring pass to cut the Rhino lead to 17-10. The Rhino offense then took over as Fine Unga grounded out big gains on and Stireman hit several keys passes including a perfect over the shoulder pass to Norvel Young from 28 yards out to put the Rhinos up 24-10 early in the 4th. After another great kick return, it took the Titans just a few plays to cut the lead once again to 7, 24-17. With a combination of ball control and great defense, the Rhinos were able to run out the last 5 minutes of the game to claim the great road win.
The defense was outstanding all night with Jay & Levine Tupe, Vaea & Walter Fiefia, Nate Miconi, Derrick Beatty, Jed Davies, Anthony Dozier, Fine Unga, Bill Nebeker, Willis Mickles, Mike Pierce, Chad Spendlove and Manu Taeolaii all truning in great performances.
Offensively, Fine Unga had 18 carries for 146 yards and Damon Greenberry & Norvel Young each had TD receptions.
Sunday, May 25
REMATCH OF HEAVYWEIGHTS
The Rhino-Raiders will travel to Denver to face the Titans on Saturday, May 31st. Kickoff is set for 6 p.m. at 5 Star Stadium in Thornton.
The game is the second between these two National Semi-pro powers as the Rhino-Raiders won last year in Ogden, 55-20. Dave Stireman threw for 362 yards and 5 TD's and Norvel Young had 9 receptions for 176 yards and 4 TD's.
The Titans are 1-0 on the season with a 31-6 non-league win over the Northern Colorado Wolfpack. The Rhino-Raiders (5-0), following a lethargic 32-16 opening day win over the Layton Longhorns, have dominated there last four opponents, most recently a 59-11 win over the Salt Lake Nemesis.
Both the Rhino-Raiders and Titans have felt the effects of losing star players to the National Indoor Football League. 2002 Minor League Football News National Defensive Player of the Year Trevor Bell starts on defense for the Utah Warriors. Free Safety Junior Baker suffered a ruptured achilles tendon in the Warriors first game in March and is lost for the season. The Titans also have lost two key players to the Wyoming Calvary, most notably WR Charlie Ricks. The Rhino-Raiders have also lost former Weber State and Tennessee Titan LB David Stroshine for the season due to shoulder surgery.
After playing the first five games of the 2003 season without 3/4 of their starting secondary, the Rhino-Raiders welcome former BYU defensive back Mike Sumko to the team. Sumko's senior season in 2002 was cut short by a broken ankle. Former Weber State and Edmonton Eskimo Derrick Beatty, widely regarded to be the top cornerback in the region, returns for the 2003 season. Beatty has been a fixture for the Rhino-Raiders since the 2000 season, but making his first appearance this season due to work obligations.
Contact Dave for Team Headquarters in the Denver area.
Sunday, May 18
RHINOS LAND TOP PLAYER
Click above link for Mike's bio.
The Rhino-Raiders are pleased to announce the addition of Mike Sumko to the team. Mike was one of BYU's starting cornerbacks in 2002 before a broken ankle ended his college career. Mike will help fill the void left by Trevor Bell, who currently plays for the indoor Utah Warriors.
Saturday, May 17
RHINO-RAIDERS ROUT NEMESIS
The Rhino-Raiders notched their 39th straight league win by beating the Salt Lake Nemesis at Ogden High, 59-11.
The offense was clicking on all cylinders as Dave Stireman threw 4 1st half touchdowns as the Rhinos took a 33-3 halftime lead. The Rhinos extended their lead to 53-3 midway through the 3rd as SS Nate Miconi scooped up a Nemesis QB fumble, which was caused by a big hit from Jay Tupe, and raced 35 yards for the touchdown. In less than 2 1/2 quarters, Stireman tossed 5 TD's, two each to Norvel Young and Damon Greenberry, and one to TE Nick Fotu. Nate Cardenas added a TD throw of his own to Norvel Young. Terrance Marks and Rob Morse adding rushing touchdowns to cap the Rhino scoring. RB Fine Unga had a few brilliant runs in limited offensive action.
On the defensive side of the ball, the Rhinos had great performances from DE Jeff Ross (3 sacks & a fumble recovery), DT Vaea Fiefia (2 sacks), Bill Nebeker (3 sacks) and big time hits all night from Tupe and Miconi. The Rhinos alo got strong defensive play from Willis Mickles, Shane Dooley, Mike Pierce, Jed Davies, Ken Perkins and Cody Burton.
The Rhino-Raiders now prepare for their biggest challenge of the season as they play Saturday, May 31st at the Denver Titans. The Rhinos beat the Titans in Ogden last year, 55-20. A complete game preview is coming.
Thursday, May 15
RHINO-RAIDERS TO PLAY IN NAFL ALSO
Contact: Joey Josephs
League Phone: (212) 608-5264
New York, May 15, 2003 -- The North American Football League are proud to announce the addition of the South Ogden (UT) Rhino-Raiders as an expansion team.
The Rhino-Raiders were formed in 1999 under the name of the South Ogden Raiders and finished their first season in the Utah Football League with a 6-4 record. They were eventually eliminated from the UFL playoffs in the semifinals.
It would be the team's last loss in league play.
Prior to the 2000 season, there was an ownership change and the name Rhino was added to make the official team name Rhino-Raiders.
Since their formation, the Rhino-Raiders have a record of 46-3, including a 38-game UFL winning streak, and non-league wins against the NAFL's Wasatch Wildcats as well as the Denver Titans, Capitol City Fury, Las Vegas Wolves, Madison Lions and the Snake River Rebels. Their losses came on the road to the Puget Sound Jets in Seattle, at home against the Multnomah County Buccaneers and to the NAFL's Spokane Nightmare.
Rhinos owner Dave Stireman has said he is excited to become a new member of the NAFL and is ready to see his team compete and prove they have more to offer the NAFL than just a catchy name.
Thursday, May 15
RHINO-RAIDER TREVOR BELL STILL GRABBING HEADLINES
For Whom Bell Toils
By Brett Prettyman
The Salt Lake Tribune
WEST VALLEY CITY -- Trevor Bell received two callings this year and answered both.
Come Saturdays, Bell pulls on shoulder pads, a helmet, a Utah Warriors jersey and is known as "Rabbi" or "Father," among other things, while returning kickoffs and playing defensive back.
On Sundays, he dresses in his best suit for religious services at the Roy 15th Ward and goes by Bishop Bell, meeting and greeting his neighbors and friends at church.
"This has been a really great experience. There are a lot of LDS guys on the team, and those who aren't are religious in their own right," said Bell, a 26-year-old father of two who also serves as a seminary teacher at Weber High School. "For me, sports and religion go hand in hand. Sports teaches character from pressing forward when things get tough. Practice can get repetitive and tiring.
"Spirituality is the same. If you stop working on either one, then you regress. Sure they are in different environments, but I try to be the same person regardless of the circumstances."
Having a bishop on the Warriors certainly provides its share of jokes in the locker room, but Bell's teammates respect his accomplishments on and off the field.
"Just because he is a bishop and is really religious doesn't make him any less of a football player," said Utah quarterback and assistant coach Danny Ragsdale. "He is as competitive and as fiery as anybody I've ever played football against. He'll knock your head off if he gets a chance."
Because they only make $300 per game in the World
Indoor Football League, the Warriors rely on other, more reliable forms of income. When they aren't catching passes or throwing blocks at the E Center or other WIFL venues, the Utah players work as security guards, correctional officers, personal trainers and claims adjusters.
"It sure makes for some long days for all of us," said Warriors coach Lee Leslie, who also serves as the head of physical education department at Tooele High School. "These guys are playing because they love the game. You get the crap beat out of you and you get carpet burns all over your body, but it is about living the fantasy of doing something we all love; pro football."
The Warriors practice Tuesday and Thursday nights for three hours and play their games on Saturdays. Bell somehow manages to keep his meetings for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, form lesson plans for the seminary class, work on a doctorate in Education through the University of Phoenix and make it to football practice.
That's good considering the team imposes a $50 fine for every practice a player misses.
"A lot of guys have a hard enough time just playing football," Ragsdale said. "The fact he can successfully juggle all of the things he is doing is amazing."
Bell was a little anxious to tell the Warriors when church officials asked him to take on the extra duties of becoming a bishop a couple of weeks into this season, but he had a feeling little would change.
"We were on a road trip when I told Coach Leslie and the other coaches," Bell said. "One of them asked if I was going to do it. Coach answered, 'Of course he is going to do it.' "
In addition to enjoying the team's success, Bell said the highlight of the season came when he was able to combine his two professions.
"We had two injured players and they asked for a blessing. We had enough LDS guys on the team and we did it," he said. "That was awesome."
One of the most frequent questions Weber seminary students ask their teacher is what he sounds like on the field and in the locker room.
"They ask if I keep my language clean during games. I take a lot of pride in the fact that I don't swear. The other guys are watching and waiting for one terse word to come from my mouth so they can say the bishop swears," Bell said. "I've had a clean mouth my whole life and I feel like I'm setting a good example for the other players."
Ragsdale agrees.
"People sometimes feel they have to act a certain way to be a professional football player. Trevor shows you can be a really good person with strong religious convictions and be a heck of a football player at the same time," Ragsdale said.
Bell also finds that his part-time job draws some students to him who might otherwise stay away.
"They have a seminary teacher who plays pro football," Bell said. "That helps me develop a rapport with kids a lot of other seminary teachers don't have. It helps me win hearts so I can open them."
Like the players, the Warriors' franchise has aspirations of moving up in the indoor football world. Should that happen, the chances of having games scheduled on Sundays is a distinct possibility.
If it happens, Bell says it should be obvious which of the two passions he will choose, but he isn't giving up on football that easily.
"I'll have to pray about that one," he said.
Saturday, May 10
RHINO-RAIDERS ROLL OVER BLITZ
The Rhino-Raiders extend their league winning streak to 38 with a 32-14 road win over the Utah Blitz at Payson High School.
The Rhino-Raider defense dominated the line of scrimmage and helped the Rhino-Raiders take a commanding 26-8 halftime lead. The defense was led by Walter & Vaea Fiefia, Levine & Jay Tupe, Shane Dooley, Bill Nebeker, Willis Mickles, Manu Taeoalii, Mike Pierce, Nate Miconi, Ken Perkins and the return of DT Anthony Dozier, who sat out the 2002 season after wrist surgery. Ryan Mendoza and Norvel Young added interceptions. It was the swarming defensive front which limited the vaunted Blitz running game to less than 100 yards and 5 pass completions in the entire game. The Blitz touchdowns came on a short run set up by a long halfback trick play pass and a 40 yard pass late in the game.
Offensively, the Rhino-Raiders went to the air as Dave Stireman threw for 434 yards and 5 TD's. Norvel Young (9-205-2 td's) and Damon Greenberry (7-144-2 td's) were the main targets. Also stepping in to contribute was WR Rob Jolley with 1 TD reception. With TE Nick Fotu, RB Fine Unga, HB Rob Morse and WR Rashad Kennedy unable to attend, Ryan Scadden and Nate Cardenas stepped in and caught 5 passes between them to sustain big drives. The offensive line led by Gary Lucero, Phil Sotomayor, Todd Wheelwright, Travis Elliott, Charles Kano, Eric Mullen and Jon Cook controlled the line of scrimmage against the #1 scoring defense in the league.
Sunday, May 4
RHINO-RAIDERS POUND WARRIORS
The Rhino-Raiders beat the Utah Warriors for the 6th straight time Saturday night 42-22.
After 2002 UFL MVP Jay Fletcher blocked a punt and returned it for an early 6-0 Warriors lead, Dave Stireman threw 5 touchdowns, three to Damon Greenberry and two to Norvel Young, as the Rhino-Raiders sprinted out to a 42-14 fourth quarter lead. The Warriors scored with one minute remaining to cap the scoring.
Defensively, the Rhino-Raiders were led by DE's Vaea Fiefia and Bill Nebeker who registered 3 sacks apiece, and tremendous efforts from Jay Tupe, Nate Miconi, Mike Pierce, Shane Dooley and Jed Davies.
Tuesday, April 29
RHINO-RAIDERS TO PARTICIPATE IN SCOUT-O-RAMA
The Rhino-Raiders are teaming up with the Boy Scouts of America at the Scout-O-Rama at Barnes Park in Kaysville this Friday, May 2nd. Several top Rhino-Raider players including Norvel Young, Nate Miconi, Damon Greenberry, Gary Lucero, Travis Elliott and Dave Stireman, along with some new Rhinostone Dance Team members, will be available to sign atugraphs during the celebrity autograph session from 8-9 p.m. Also expected to attend will be players from the Utah Grizzlies, Salt Lake Stingers, Utah Blitzz Soccer Team, Utah Warriors Indoor football team and maybe a Jazz player. Come out and support this terrific event.
Saturday, April 26
RHINO-RAIDERS ROLL OVER VIPERS
The Rhino-Raiders (2-0) extended their UFL winning streak to 36 games with a 49-13 win over the Davis Vipers. The Rhino-Raiders built a 42-0 lead at the end of three quarters as the Rhino defense was dominating.
Offensive Scoring:
Dave Stireman threw two TD passes to Norvel Young, Terrence Marks and Radford Kaleikini had short TD runs, Damon Greenberry had a long punt return for a touchdown, Nate Miconi intercepted a pass and returned it for a touchdown and Nate Cardenas tossed a touchdown to Rob Jolley.
Defensive Standouts:
Jay Ochsenbein, Nate Miconi, Vaea Fiefia, Bill Nebeker, Cody Burton, Jay Tupe, Ken Perkins, Shane Dooley, Willis Mickles, Mike Pierce and Jed Davies.
Saturday, April 19
RHINO-RAIDER TREVOR BELL MAKING IMPACT WITH INDOOR TEAM
Warriors rookie Trevor Bell ready to show his stuff
04/02/03 NIFL Fan Article by Philip J. Rogich, Syracuse, UT
At age 29 Trevor Bell is one of the older rookies in the league. Trevor grew up in Pocatello, Idaho. He is part of an athletic family. There are four brothers in the family. Troy Bell was a running back at Idaho State. He graduates this year, perhaps hell follow Trevor to the NIFL. Travis Bell was ranked nationally as a wrestler at BYU Idaho (formerly Ricks college). Shane Bell was a all-state wrestler in High School. Trevor and his wife Jamie live in Roy with their two daughters Taylor (age 4) & Addi (age 2). Jamie and Trevor are expecting there first son.
Trevor went to Highland High School where he played football, wrestled and played tennis. As a wrestler he took second in state and was the free style state champ. In football he was all conference and all state as a corner back. His team made it to the State Semi-final his junior and senior years.
After high school Trevor took some time off from football. He spent a year at Ricks College, then went on an two year LDS mission to England. Trevor returned to Ricks for one more year. During his final year at Ricks he decided to get back into football. So he started working out to get ready.
Trevor came back home to Pocatello and walked onto Idaho State Universities football team. He played football there from 1994 to 1997, where he played defensive back. Trevor is the Idaho State Career interception leader with 17 for 209 yards. He also run back punts, with 39 returns, for 471 yards and 1 TD. He is also ranked second and third at Idaho State for most interception in a season. He was a GTE Academic 1st team All-American his junior year. Bell had a great senior year. He was a NCAA division 1-AA All-American and was the leader for interceptions in division 1-AA with eight picks.
After College Trevor had a try-out with the San Francisco 49ers. He spent a week with the team. He then moved to Utah where he went to work and a seminary teacher. After being out of football for a year Trevor got an agent. He then tried to break into the CFL. Four teams showed interest but nothing panned out. Football was still in his blood and he was not ready to give it up. In 2000 Trevor started playing for the Semi-pro team, the Ogden Rhino-Raiders after being out of football for two years. Bell started out playing corner back and was a return man. He then started seeing action at wide receiver. In 2000 he was the Utah Football league MVP & defensive MVP. In 2002 he was AFA 2nd team All-American as a corner back, Honorable mention as a wide receiver and league defensive player of the year. In 2002 he played in a bowl game in Las Vegas. Some scouts saw him and told him he needed to get into some kind of professional league.
Trevor found the Utah Warriors under hes nose. A friend told him about the try outs. Trevor was one of the first players signed, however because of his injury he must earn his spot on the team once more. The Warriors have him listed as a wide receiver, however with the injury to Junior Baker, he will see action as a free safety. When I asked Trevor about the Warriors he stated, "We have a great team with lots of talent, we should do well." By joining the Utah Warriors Trevor can live his dream of playing professional football. If he has the opportunity to move up to other leagues he would take it, only if it was a benefit to his family. For the time being Trevor is just happy playing with the Warriors. When ask about his thoughts on Billings he stated, " last week they just tried covering Cory, this week they better cover all of us."
Saturday, March 1
RHINO-RAIDERS & WSU STUDENT TRAINERS TO TEAM UP
In another showing of teamwork, WSU Athletic training department student trainers, working under the direction of Head Trainer Joel Bass and Rehabilitation Director Clay Sniteman, will work with the Rhino-Raiders this season. Each student trainer will receive college credit under the work study program as required to graduate. This will be Clay's second season with the Rhino-Raiders.
Friday, February 28
VAEA FIEFIA NAMED TO 2002 NFE ALL-AMERICAN TEAM
Vaea Fiefia, the most explosive defensive player in the Utah Football League, has been named to the 2002 National Football Events All-American 2nd Team. Players named to the honorable mention team were CB Trevor Bell, WR Norvel Young and QB Dave Stireman. Congratulations to all of the players.
Sunday, February 23
AFA NAMES 2002 ALL-AMERICAN TEAMS
The AFA announced their 2002 All-American teams and several Rhino-Raiders players were mentioned. Trevor Bell was named to the 2nd team as a cornerback and Junior Baker as a 3rd team defensive back. Among those who were named to the honorable mention team were LB's Levine Tupe, Cody Burton & Fine Unga, DB Jay Tupe, DL Vaea Fiefia, WR Norvel Young, RB Rob Morse and OL's Gary Lucero & Karl Silva. Bell was also named as an honorable mention WR. Congratulations to all these outstanding players.
Saturday, January 4
BELL NAMED 2002 MLFN AAA DEFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE YEAR
Trevor Bell, defensive back, was named as the top defensive player in the nation in the AAA ranks for the 2002 season by the Minor League Football News. Trevor adds this great honor to a long list of accomplishments as he has previously garned the 2001 UFL MVP and two previous defensive player of the year awards. Trevor is also regarded as the top return man in the region as well as one the best wide receivers. Trevor starred collegiately at Idaho State and is a Pocatello native. The entire Rhino-Raider organization congratulates not only its best player, but a first class person.
Sunday, January 5
BOWL GAME VIDEO NOW AVAILABLE
The video from the Rhino-Raiders victory over the Capital City Fury is now available. Please contact Ryan Scadden at rscadden@utah.gov to order a copy.
Saturday, December 14
RHINO-RAIDERS FINISH OFF DOMINATING SEASON
Standard-Examiner staff
LAS VEGAS, Nev. -- The South Ogden Rhino-Raiders capped another semipro football season with a dominating win in the Minor League Football News National Challenge Game.
The Rhino-Raiders defeated the Capital City Fury, a top team out of Sacramento. Calif., 43-14, last weekend at Green Valley High School.
The Rhino-Raiders finish the season as the top AAA winter-spring season team in the MLFN rankings. Capital City (15-2-1) was ranked No. 3 before the game. The game was held as part of a pro football combine in Nevada.
"We played well all the way around," coach Dave Stireman said.
Stireman played well himself, directing a dominating offense. Stireman completed 22-of-33 passes for 382 yards and four touchdowns. Backup Ryan Scadden also tossed a TD pass.
Norvell Young, named game MVP, caught seven passes for 180 yards and three touchdowns. Damon Greenberry had 80 receiving yards, and Trevor Bell caught six passes for 118 yards and a TD, and Nick Fotu hauled in a TD pass.
Terrance Marks rushed for a TD and combined with Fine Unga and Bell to provide a solid running attack behind the line play of Karl Silva and company.
But the South Ogden defense was just as dominating as the offense, holding the Fury to six first downs and less than 100 yards of total offense.
Top defenders included Bill Nebeker, Walter Fiefia, Vaiai Fiefia , Lavine Tupe, Jay Tupe, Junior Baker, David Stroshine, Shane Dooley, Jed Davies and Kenyatta Green.
Rodney Frokjer added a 48-yard field goal and was 4-for-4 on PATs.
The three-time defending Utah Football League champions finished the year with a 13-1 record. Their only loss of the season was an exhibition loss to the Spokane (Wash.) Nightmare in which the Rhino-Raiders sent only 20 players.
The Utah Football League will begin play in April.
Saturday, July 27
RHINO-RAIDERS HIT JACKPOT IN MALAD
The Rhino-Raiders beat the Madison Lionz of the RMFL 55-6. The Rhino-Raiders raced out to a 48-0 halftime lead and never looked back.
Wednesday, July 17
RHINO-RAIDERS UNANIMOUS #1
For the first time in years the American Football News (AFN) and the Minor League Football News (MLFN) agree on who is #1 in Spring Semi-Pro Football. After the Rhino-Raiders championship win over the Utah Warriors, 43-12, both polls have the Rhino-Raiders #1 in the Nation. Congratulations Rhino-Raiders!!
RHINO-RAIDERS TO CONTINUE LEVEL OF COMMITMENT
From the early days of 1998 when this team was started by Alofa Williamsva through the 2001 championship season, the Rhino-Raiders have been the model franchise in semi-pro football. The team has become a power because of Alofa's dream and the leadership of Stew MacInnes. The two-time defending AA National Champs have made the leap to the AAA level and will continue to perform at a high level. Dave Stireman will run the team for the 2002 season, but will rely on many to maintain the previously established standards that this organization demands.. All questions regarding this upcoming season should be directed to Dave at 801-509-8899 or uflfootball@aol.com
MAYOR PRAISES RHINO-RAIDERS
Upon learning of South Ogden Rhino-Raiders #1 AFN rating, South Ogden City Mayor George Garwood, Jr. had this to say, "Thanks and keep up the good work we are so proud of the team."
RHINO-RAIDERS CLAIM THIRD STRAIGHT TITLE
Sun, July 14, 2002
By JON YORGASON
Standard-Examiner correspondent
OGDEN -- The first question that undoubtedly came to the minds of many fans at Saturday"s Utah Football League championship game was how could the Utah Warriors possibly play in 100 degree weather with solid black uniforms?
The second question was would the South Ogden Rhino-Raiders be able to defeat a team that has given them trouble recently and claim their third consecutive UFL title?
While the first question may be unanswerable, the Rhino-Raiders answered the second in convincing fashion, a 43-12 whipping of the Warriors for their third straight crown and an unprecedented 33rd win in a row against UFL opponents.
Dave Stireman, the league"s top quarterback, completed 7-of-16 passes for 163 yards and three touchdowns in leading the Rhino-Raiders to victory in front of another large crowd at Ogden High School.
"I"m happy for these guys," Stireman said. "It"s a long season, but this is a fun team. We just show up and play on Saturdays and for a bunch of guys that get together and bring their families and get a big crowd like this and for the tremendous support we get from Ogden High and from the community, what else is there to do on a July summer night?"
Stireman connected twice with Damon Greenberry and once with Trevor Bell for touchdowns. Bell"s TD reception was the first score of the game, with 6:06 remaining in the first quarter. A miscommunication in the Warriors defensive backfield allowed Bell to be wide open near the sideline and Stireman found him for a 21-yard touchdown pass.
"I think we got a few really heads up leaders on this team," said Bell. "They know the game and are very experienced. They keep the other guys" heads on straight and keep them focused and really take charge, especially in a game like tonight.
"I"m just happy we got the "W" and another UFL title," Bell added. "It feels really good. We played tough and I think you saw who was the best team tonight."
Moments later, South Ogden defensive back Derrick Beatty made what was probably the defensive play of the game. With the Warriors driving, Beatty stepped in front of a Adam Cunningham pass, picked it off and returned it 59 yards for a touchdown and a 14-0 Rhino-Raiders lead.
Utah got on the scoreboard early in the second quarter when Jerod Lewis scored from seven yards out, but even that didn"t turn out so well for the Warriors. On the ensuing extra point attempt, the Rhino-Raiders blocked the kick and Bell picked it up and ran 90 yards for a two-point score.
Greenberry (50-yard reception) and Terrence Marks (12-yard run) finished off the first half scoring, which ended at 30-6.
The Warriors valiantly fought back early in the second half thanks to Lewis" second touchdown, a two-yard run to cut the lead to 30-12. Utah even had an opportunity to cut into the lead some more and were down to the South Ogden 1-yard line after a 10-play drive, but a personal foul took the Warriors out of touchdown range and the Rhino-Raiders took over.
Greenberry and Marks each recorded a second touchdown apiece in the second half. Marks, a 1998 graduate of Ben Lomond High School, finished with 57 yards on 13 carries.
Thursday, July 11
TREVOR BELL - GREAT PLAYER, GREATER TEAMMATE
Click above to link to Ogden Standard Examiner Story
By KEN PERKINS
Special to the Standard-Examiner
The first time Trevor Bell strapped on a helmet at age 12 to play football for his cousin"s team, the Chubbuck (Idaho) Vikings, he wasn"t sure if he ever wanted to play again.
"In my first year playing, I remember getting my lights knocked out when I ran up the middle one time and I was thinking, "I don"t know if I want to play anymore," " Bell said.
Luckily for the South Ogden Rhino-Raiders, his football career didn"t end there.
Bell and the Rhino-Raiders look to wrap up a third consecutive undefeated Utah Football League season on Saturday when they play the Utah Warriors for the title.
Game time is 7 p.m. at Ogden High School.
At Highland High in Pocatello, Idaho, his team reigned as region champs and Bell earned all-state honors at cornerback. Bell"s college career at Idaho State was filled with individual accomplishments as well. Bell owns the career interceptions record of 17 at Idaho State. He earned Academic All-America honors his junior year and All-America honors his senior season. Playing free safety and returning punts for the Bengals, Bell received All-Big Sky Conference honors at both positions his senior year.
When the San Francisco 49ers called him in June of 1998 and invited him to camp, Bell was ready.
"It was a dream come true. After camp, they said I did really well and they would call either way. I"m still waiting for the call," he joked.
The opportunity to play football again in the UFL, happened by chance when Anthony Dozier, current assistant coach for the Rhino-Raiders, visited the dentist and met Bell"s wife, Jamie, a dental assistant. Dozier mentioned to Jamie that he was playing semi-pro football. Jamie then told Dozier about her husband and his invitation to the 49ers" training camp.
The following Saturday, Bell was introduced to the team at the Rhino-Raiders" practice and the rest, as they say, is history.
In his first season with the Rhino-Raiders in 2000, Bell had an amazing year that culminated in the Rhino-Raiders" first UFL championship title as well as being named defensive player of the year and league MVP.
In his third year with the Rhino-Raiders, Bell has been honored as first team all-league defensive back and wide receiver.
"I"m fortunate to have hooked up with a very talented team," he said, "and it"s nice to play with some of the guys I played against at Weber State. Besides, let"s face it, it"s always a lot more fun when you"re winning."
Having the opportunity to play football again was great for Bell, but having the added bonus of playing the position he"d always wanted to play has just been satisfying.
"I"ve always wanted to play receiver," Bell said. "To catch a pass for a huge gain or a game-winning touchdown is just something I"ve always wanted to do, and the Rhino-Raiders have given me that opportunity."
According to Bell, the skill level, chemistry and players with a lot of heart make this team as successful as it"s been over the last three years.
"We are looking forward to this year"s western region championship to redeem last year, which in my opinion is a game we never should"ve lost," Bell said. "Then I believe an all-out national championship title is certainly attainable."
First, though, the Warriors stand in the way of his team"s goals.
"I am glad we get the opportunity to play the Warriors again. We did not play Rhino-Raiders ball last time. We were short some players -- we were lax, we hardly got in a stretch," said Bell, referring to the Rhino-Raiders" close 27-23 win over the Warriors in the regular-season finale.
Bell has earned the nickname "Superman" from his teammates and coaches -- not only for his play on the field, but also for his contagious attitude.
"What"s great about having Trevor on the field besides the fact that he"s a great athlete and very skilled player is that you have another coach on the field, a level head that keeps everyone focused," said Stew MacInnes, 2001 national coach of the year for the Rhino-Raiders.
Dave Stireman, the Rhino-Raiders" starting quarterback and this year"s head coach, knows he has the best receivers in the league.
"Norvel (Young), Trevor and Damon (Greenberry) are nearly impossible to stop," Stireman said. "So many times Trev has come through with a clutch catch, a big hit or a pick on defense. And to top it all off, he"s just an all-around good guy."
Bell has quite a busy life off the field as well. When he"s not schooling opposing receivers or defensive backs he"s teaching LDS Seminary at Weber High School.
When Bell isn"t playing football, going to practices, meetings or attending classes for a master"s degree in education, he"s spending time with his family. The true joy in his life is his family and his work for the LDS Church. The time he spends with his wife, Jamie, and his two little girls, Taylor and Addison, is the time he cherishes most.
His family comes to all the games they can and his two girls love watching daddy play football.
"My little girls say to me after every game, "Dad, those guys were mean to you," " he laughs. "They really enjoy it though."
Trevor thought he was done after an injury-riddled 2001 season. But his wife talked him into playing again this year.
"She told me, "I know you love it, it"s a good outlet, the guys on your team love you (and) you"re a good influence." "
She said enough to convince him to play again. He and the Rhino-Raiders are glad she did.
"The players love the game," Bell said. "They all have families and jobs and they still come out to play. You know the guys that play love it."
Sunday, June 30
RHINO-RAIDERS ROLL
Click above to link to game photos.
By JON YORGASON
Standard-Examiner correspondent
OGDEN -- The South Ogden Rhino-Raiders have the league"s best players in three or four positions.
As a result, they"re virtually unbeatable in the Utah Football League and proved it again Saturday night with a 54-0 whipping of the Davis Vipers in the UFL"s semifinal round of the playoffs at Ogden High School.
Norvel Young and Trevor Bell are clearly the best receivers in the league.
Add quarterback Dave Stireman to the mix and it"s nearly impossible for defenders to stop them.
Fine Unga, who normally plays defense for the Rhino-Raiders, is a lock for top running back in the league when he actually plays the position. His 19-yard touchdown in the third quarter Saturday was a thing of beauty, as he darted back and forth and faked defenders nearly out of their shoes.
Stireman threw two touchdown passes to the speedy Young and three overall before taking himself out of the game midway through the second quarter when the Rhino-Raiders had built a 33-0 advantage.
"That guy there is just a terrific football player," Stireman said of Young. "If we just had one, you could probably defend him. But when you"ve got him and Trevor Bell and then throw Damian Greenberry into the mix, it"s very difficult to defend us."
Greenberry and John Roberts also scored two touchdowns apiece for South Ogden (10-0), which will face the Utah Warriors (7-2) in the UFL championship game on July 13 at Ogden High.
Just 19 seconds after Young scored his second touchdown -- a 33-yard reception from Stireman -- Roberts got his first score when he picked up a fumbled kickoff return and ran it 15 yards for a TD. Roberts also scored the final touchdown of the night on a 14-yard run. Additionally, he had one of three South Ogden interceptions.
Bell and Kris Thompson also nabbed interceptions for the Rhino-Raiders.
In all, it was a thorough shellacking of a team who played the Rhino-Raiders pretty close three weeks ago.
"We came to play tonight," Stireman said. "We kind of hit on all cylinders. The defense was outstanding and gave the offense plenty of opportunities. We ran the ball well, our offensive line did a terrific job. (The Warriors) kind of caused some problems for us three weeks ago, but we shored that up."
South Ogden also got key performances from Vaea Fiefia and Terrance Marks.
Saturday, June 15
RHINO-RAIDERS WIN A CLOSE ONE - 27-23
With about 6 minutes left on the clock, the Rhino-Raiders marched 92 yards culminating with a 12 yard Dave Stireman to Trevor Bell pass that put them up by the final score of 27-23. Several keys plays on the winning drive included a 40 yard pass to Damon Greenberry who got open down the left sideline and a Norvel Young catch and run that set up the winning touchdown. Jay Tupe then intercepted a 4th down pass with 11 seconds to go near the goal line to seal the victory.
The Rhino-Raiders jumped out to a 21-3 halftime lead only to see that lead evaporate in the second half. Depth on defense proved to be a problem as several starters were unable to attend the game. They included CB Derrick Beatty, FS Junior Baker, OLB Kenyatta Green, LB Cody Burton and SS Fine Unga (who arrived with 5 minutes left in game due to travel). Also, safeties Ken Perkins (knee) and Jed Davies (shoulder) are out for the UFL season due to surgeries. Also missing were offensive starters RB Rob Morse (wedding), C Todd Wheelwright (broken arm) and OL Karl Silva (vacation).
With two weeks before their first playoff game, the Rhino-Raiders expect to be nearly back to full strength for the playoffs.
Saturday, June 8
SHORT-HANDED RHINO-RAIDERS GET WIN
The Rhino-Raiders won an unprecedented 30th straight Utah Football League game Saturday night with a 34-12 victory over the Davis Vipers. Click above for Ogden Standard Examiner Story.
Saturday, June 1
RHINO-RAIDERS WIN 29TH STRAIGHT UFL GAME
The Rhino-Raiders beat the West Jordan Bulldogs 61-14 as they win their 29th consecutive Utah Football League game Saturday night at Ogden High.
QB's Nate Cardenas & Ryan Scadden accounted for 4 td's as the Rhino-Raiders topped the 60 point mark for the first time this season. Cardenas threw 2 td's and Scadden had 1 passing and 1 rushing. Dave Stireman tossed 4 td's in limited action. On the receiving end were Trevor Bell hauling in 4 td's, Norvel Young with 2 and Rob Morse with 1.
Defensively, outside of two long pass plays over a falling cornerback, the defense was outstanding. After knocking Bulldog QB Cliff Kelly out of the game in the first half, the Bulldogs could only muster a few first downs in the last 2 1/2 quarters of the game. Standouts on defense were Shane Dooley, Kris Thomson, Jay & Levine Tupe, Cody Burton, Vaea & Walter Fiefia and Bill Nebeker.
RHINO-RAIDER OFFENSIVE STATISTICS
Thru 6/1 game - Unofficial
Passing
Dave Stireman (5)
81 - 117 - 3 - 1,599 - 23 td's
Rushing
Terrence Marks (7)
86 - 784 - 6 td's
Rob Morse (6)
43 - 284 - 4 td's
Receiving
Norvel Young (6)
48 - 983 - 16 td's
Trevor Bell (7)
35 - 585 - 11 td's
Nick Fotu (7)
29 - 334 - 3 td's
Games played in parethesis.
RHINO-RAIDERS STILL #2 IN NATION
Minor League Football News has the Rhino-Raiders as their #2 rated team in the nation of winter/spring teams. Click above to see full rankings.
Saturday, May 18
RHINO-RAIDERS ROUT TITANS
Click above for Ogden Standard Examiner Story
Behind 5 TD passes from Dave Stireman, the Rhino-Raiders beat the Denver Titans 55-20 at Ogden High School. Four of those TD's were to Norvel Young, with the other to Trevor Bell. Fine Unga & Terrence Marks also added rushing touchdowns. Kicker Rodney Frojker was perfect on the night going 7 of 7 PAT's and adding two field goals.
Once again the Rhino-Raider defense was dominant holding the high-powered Titan offense to two scores. The other Titan touchdown came on a punt return. Outstanding performers for the Rhino-Raider defense were the Tupe Bros., Jay & Levine, the Fiefia Bros., Vaea & Walter, Junior Baker, Derrick Beatty & Willis Mickles. Overall, the defense was terrific.
The Rhino-Raiders took a 24-6 halftime lead, but the Titans returned a punt after the Rhino-Raiders were forced to punt on their first possession of the second half. That cut the Rhino-Raider lead to 24-12. However, Stireman fired two touchdown passes on consecutive drives in the third to give the Rhino-Raiders a comfortable 38-12 margin going to the fourth quarter.
Rhino-Raider Offensive Stats
Passing
Dave Stireman 21-34-1-362-5 td's
Rushing
Terrence Marks 17-119 yds. 1 td
Fine Unga 6-45 yds. 1 td
Rob Morse 7-37 yds.
Receiving
Norvel Young 9-176-4 td's
Trevor Bell 6-113-1 td
Nick Fotu 5-52
Cole Boyer 1-21
RHINO-RAIDERS ARE #1 IN AFN SPRING/SUMMER NATIONAL RATINGS
After spending much of the season trapped at #3 the South Ogden Rhino-Raiders are now on top of the AFN Spring/Summer National Power Ratings! Followed by the Denver Titans #2 and the Multanomah Co. Bucanneers of Oregon at #3.
RHINO-RAIDERS RUN PAST WOLFPACK
The Rhino-Raiders beat the Riverton Wolfpack 49-28 behind the 205 yard and 3 rushing touchdown effort of RB Terrence Marks. The offense also got scoring plays from RB Rob Morse on a short run, a 85 yard pass from Nate Cardenas to Norvel Young and a 10 yard pass from Ryan Scadden to Trevor Bell. The other RR touchdown came on a 60 fumble return by LB Cody Burton.
Once again, several RR starters did not play, including QB Dave Stireman, RG Karl Silva, C Todd Wheelwright, RT Gary Lucero & SS Fine Unga. Most of the starting defense played limited minutes in order to get the younger guys some playing time.
Saturday, May 4
RHINO-RAIDERS WIN BIG OVER BLITZ
The Rhino-Raiders found motivation in the way of the undefeated Utah County Blitz Saturday. When it was over, the Rhino-Raiders walked away with a dominating 42-12 win.
Once again, the defense was outstanding, allowing a touchdown on the final play of the second quarter, which made the halftime score 28-6. The second Blitz TD came in the last minute of the game. Defensive stars were the Tupe Brothers, Jay & Levine, Junior Baker, Ken Perkins, Shane Dooley & Cody Burton.
Offensively, the offense scored on every possession through the first three quarters, except for a missed field goal. QB Dave Stireman threw for 404 yards and 6 touchdowns, before exiting the game at the end of the third with the score 42-6. On the receiving end were the usual suspects. Norvel Young caught 4 td's and Trevor Bell added 2. TE Nick Fotu caught 6 passes for 88 yards. The offensive line was once again terrific, led by Karl Silva, Gary Lucero, Travis Elliot, Deven Coggins & Eric Mullins. Special thanks to Deven, who normally starts at DE, for filling in at center for Todd Wheelwright. who was unable to attend the game. Eric also filled in for starting RG Rob McBride, who was out of town.
RHINO-RAIDERS THANK KAMIKAZES
The Rhino-Raiders wish to thank our friends at Kamikazes, which is located at 2404 Adams Ave in Ogden, just two blocks east of the Ogden Marriot Hotel. Kamikazes & the Ogden Marriot are the official private club and hotel of the Rhino-Raiders.
2003 Rhino-Raiders Schedule
April 12th - @ Layton Longhorns - RR Win 32-16
April 26th - @ Davis Vipers - RR Win 49-13
May 3rd - UTAH WARRIORS - RR Win 42-22
May 10th - @ Utah Blitz* - RR Win 32-14
May 17th - SALT LAKE NEMESIS - RR Win 59-11
May 31st - @ Denver Titans* - RR Win 24-17
June 7th - WEST JORDAN BULLDOGS* - RR Win 45-10
June 14th - DAVIS VIPERS* - RR Win 48-7
June 21st - UTAH BLITZ* - RR Win 23-22
June 28th - UFL Semifinals - Davis Vipers - RR Win 40-14
July 12th - UFL Championship Game - Utah Blitz - RR Win 27-14
August 2nd - @ Wasatch Wildcats* - RR Lose 30-26
August 23rd - SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA STEELERS* - RR Win 35-25
September 6th - WASATCH WILDCATS* - RR Win 39-7
September 27th - NAFL 1st Round - KING COUNTY JAGUARS - RR Win 20-2
October 4th - NAFL 2nd Round - EASTSIDE HAWKS - RR Lose 52-30
December 13th - FWFA Championship - Southern California Steelers - RR Win 46-40/OT
Tuesday, July 2
RHINOS/WILDCATS - NOT THIS YEAR
After much speculation about the possibility of a game between the Rhino-Raiders and Wasatch Wildcats, it became official today that this game will not happen. Citing his commitment to let his players have the bye date, Wildcats owner David Rooker, opted to not schedule a July 20th game at Granite High School. The Wildcats are scheduled to play the Utah Blitz on July 13th.
July 20th had become available as an option after the Blitz had lost to the Warriors on Saturday. An earlier agreement between the Wildcats and Blitz called for there game to be played on July 20th only if the Blitz had advanced to the UFL championship game. The UFL title game has been set for July 13th for several months. (the Rhino-Raiders could not accept an earlier invitation for either July 13th or 20th game with the Wildcats due to the possibility of the UFL title game and UFL/RMFL game, which had been tentatively set several months ago also) When the Blitz lost Saturday, there game with the Wildcats goes to July 13th, thus opening up that date for a potential Rhino-Raider/Wildcat matchup. The Idaho Falls Mustangs have graciously agreed to play the UFL champ on July 27th, either the Rhino-Raiders or Warriors, if they play the game at all.
The only previous matchup was a 41-20 win by the Rhino-Raiders in August of 2000.
Saturday, April 13
RHINO-RAIDERS BEAT WARRIORS
The Rhino-Raiders opened up the 2002 season with a convincing 41-21 win over the Utah Warriors today. The defense was led by the Tupe Brothers, Levine and Jay, plus Fine Unga, Junior Baker, Derrick Beatty and Deven Coggins.
Offensive Game Statistics
Passing
Dave Stireman 13-18-0-318-4 td's
Nate Cardenas 1-3-1-34-0 td's
Rushing
Terrence Marks 10-92-1 td
Rob Morse 5-28-0 td's
Fine Unga 2-40-0 td's
Receiving
Norvel Young 8-256-2 td's
Trevor Bell 1-32-1 td
Nick Fotu 2-26-1 td
Kris Thomson 2-18-0 td
Nate Cardenas 1-10-0 td
Saturday, April 27
SHORT-HANDED RHINO-RAIDERS BEAT DRAGONS
The Rhino-Raiders defeated the Desert Dragons Saturday 34-12. Several RR starters did not play, including QB Dave Stireman, RB Rob Morse, WR Norvel Young, OL Todd Wheelwright, OL Karl Silva, LB Kenyatta Green, LB Jay Tupe, FS Junior Baker & S Jed Davies.
QB Nate Cardenas tossed three TD's, two to Trevor Bell and one to Kris Thomsom. QB Ryan Scadden led the offense on two long scoring drives capped off by short TD runs from Terrence Marks and Kelvin Matthews.
Defensively, the Rhino-Raiders were led by Levine Tupe, Fine Unga, Ken Perkins, Deven Coggins and Cody Burton.
2002 RHINO-RAIDER ROSTER ON INFO PAGE
2004 Rhino-Raiders Schedule
April 17th - @ Pocatello Predators - RR Win 33-13
April 24th - Davis Vipers - RR Win 69-0
May 1st - IDAHO FALLS MUSTANGS - RR Win 28-0
May 8th - @ Madison Lionz - RR Win 57-17
May 15th - UTAH BLITZ - RR Win 49-6
May 22nd - WILLAMETTE VALLEY RAIDERS (NAFL) RR Win 41-7
May 27th (Thurs) - @ Layton Longhorns - RR Win 47-8
June 5th - LAYTON PITBULLS - RR Win 41-6
June 12th - UTAH WOLVERINES - RR Win 42-0
June 19th - Playoff 1st Round - MADISON LIONZ - RR Win 35-26
June 26th - Playoff Semifinal - SALT LAKE NEMESIS - RR Win 51-28
July 10th - Championship Game - IDAHO FALLS MUSTANGS - RR Win - 46-20
August 28th - ALBUQUERQUE RAZORBACKS* - RR Win 57-26
September 25th - KING COUNTY (WA) JAGUARS# - RR Win 34-18
October 9th - @ Eastside Hawks# - RR Lose 41-7
December 18th - FWFA Championship Game - SGV Rhinos - RR Lose 18-13
*FWFA Playoff Game
#NAFL Playoffs
2005 Rhino-Raiders Schedule
April 23rd - @ Boise Roughriders - RR Win 42-14
April 30th - @ Kamas Valley Muddogs - RR Win 14-0
May 7th - DAVIS VIPERS - RR Win 16-7
May 14th - @ Idaho Falls Mustangs - RR Win 23-7
May 21st - MORGAN MARAUDERS - RR Win 42-12
May 26th (Thurs) - UTAH BLITZ - RR Win 54-0
June 4th - UTAH WOLVERINES - RR Win 42-20
June 11th - WASATCH WILDCATS - RR Win 20-14
June 25th - RMFL Quarterfinal - SALT LAKE NEMESIS - RR Win 50-25
July 9th - RMFL Semifinal - WASATCH WILDCATS - RR Win 24-9
July 16th - RMFL Championship Game - MADISON LIONZ - RR Win 24-19
July 30th - RMFL All-Star Game- South Wins 43-14
FALL SCHEDULE
August 13th - KAMAS VALLEY MUDDOGS - RR Win 28-22
September 3rd - @ Dixie State College* - Dixie Win 47-9
*Exhibition Game
January 28th - 2005 MLFN AAA National & FWFA Championships - Daly City Renegades - RR Lose 41-14
2006 Rhino-Raiders Schedule
April 15th - @ Salt Lake Nemesis - RR Win 51-6
April 22nd - @ Utah Heat - RR Win 40-6
April 29th - @ Madison Lionz - RR Win 37-31
May 6th - CACHE VALLEY BEARS - RR Win 31-14
May 13th - UTAH WOLVERINES - RR Win 35-6
May 20th - SALT LAKE NEMESIS - RR Win 52-12
June 3rd - POCATELLO PREDATORS - RR Win 28-19
June 10th - @ Utah Wolverines - RR Win 35-6
June 17th - UTAH HEAT - RR Win 34-6
Playoffs
July 1st - RMFL AAA Semifinal - Pocatello Predators - RR Win 35-28
July 8th - RMFL AAA Championship Game - Madison Lionz - RR Win 34-26
July 15th - RMFL All-Star Game - Bear River High School - South Win 37-0
FALL SCHEDULE
August 19th - NORCAL LAWMEN - Rhinos Win 29-25
FAR WEST FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION
October 21st - NEW MEXICO CRUSH - RR Lose 26-6
2007 RHINO-RAIDERS ROSTER (under construction)
NAME/POSITION/HT-WT/HIGH SCHOOL or COLLEGE
1. Damon Greenberry WR 5-11/180 Weber State
2. Justin Walker LB 6-2/210 Utah
3. Rodney Frojker P/K 6-1/180 Weber State
4. Ryan Scadden WR 6-2/220 Snow College
5. Jeff Wisler QB/DB 5-9/180 Jordan
6. Justin DeFour WR 6-3/200 Weber State
7. Jared Harward DB 6-2/190 Northern State
8. Trevor Bell WR/DB 6-0/185 Idaho State
10. Chris Carter DB 5-11/190 Ricks College
11. Jed Davies DB 6-0/180 Weber State
13. Dave Stireman QB 6-1/225 Weber State
17. Ben Jones WR 5-11/190 Utah State
19. David Stroshine DB 6-2/210 Weber State
20. Beau Enslow RB 5-9/190 Alta
24. Matt Stroshine DB 6-1/190 Weber State
25. Jay Tupe LB 5-11/215 Bonneville
30. Jake Phippen LB 5-11/220 Snake River
31. Nick Payne RB 6-1/225 Eastern Oregon
39. Tyler Phillips RB 5-10/180
48. Radford Kalekini FB 5-11/235 Radford High, Honolulu
52. Eric Eyre DL 6-1/270 Weber State
54. Dave Baker OL 6-3/270 Roy
55. Setema Gali DE 6-6/290 Brigham Young
56. Sam Matagi DL 6-0/290 Cyprus
57. Phil Sotomayor OL 6-3/290 Weber State
58. Levine Tupe LB 6-0/235 Bonneville
60. Eric Mullen OL 6-0/290 Roy
62. Nate Wilkins OL 6-1/280 Weber State
65. Travis Brower 6-5/310 Utah
70. Eric Christiansen OL 6-7/325 Snake River
75. Nate Baptist OL 6-1/330 Ben Lomond
77. Carl Silva OL 6-4/320 Weber State
78. Ken Byrd OL 6-2/300 Granite
80. Sifa Tafisi TE 6-3/260
81. Jared Gray LB 5-11/210 Lehi
85. John Gunderson TE 6-2/240 Utah
90. Tracy Ita DL 6-5/280 Ricks
92. Matt Taliulu DL 6-3/270 Utah
95. Bill Nebeker DE 6-2/225 Clearfield
98. Val Tiatia DL 6-1/300 Utah
99. K.C. MacQueen TE 6-4/260 Roy
2007 Rhino-Raiders Schedule
March 31st - @ Salt Lake Seminoles* - RR Win 20-6
April 14th - @ Pocatello Predators - RR Win 21-0
April 21st - @ Cache Valley Bears - RR Win 7-6
April 28th - BOISE SPEED - RR Win 39-6
May 5th - SALT LAKE MUDDOGS - RR Win 42-14
May 12th - @ Idaho Falls Mustangs - IF Win 21-7
May 19th - UTAH HEAT - RR Win 23-20
June 2nd - @ Utah Wolverines - Wolvs Win 40-20
June 9th - MADISON LIONZ - RR Win 20-18
June 16th - @ Salt Lake Seminoles - RR Win 23-0
June 23rd - RMFL Quarterfinals - MADISON LIONZ - RR Win 27-21
June 30th - RMFL Semifinals - @ Utah Wolverines - RR Win 20-7
July 7th - RMFL Championship Game @ Cache Valley Bears - RR Win 16-14
*NON-LEAGUE GAME
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