July 24, 2023. Victoria, BC (ISN ) – Westshore Rebels are gearing up for an exciting 2023 football season as they closed their main camp on Sunday with their sights set on a season-opening, away game versus their up-island rival VI Raiders July 29th in Nanaimo, BC, and the upcoming season ahead.
With a near-full roster including the addition of many Victoria-based high school alumni players from the now-defunct SFU football program, the team seems to have strengthened both their offense and defense teams over the off-season.
The players’ engagement and eagerness to learn, coupled with their spirited effort, are clear indicators of a motivated and determined team. Accomplishing the set goals during the camp is a positive sign that the team will have a solid foundation for the upcoming season.
For the first time in recent memory, the Langford-based team ran a week-long camp, focusing on maintaining a consistent and concentrated effort throughout a weekly process which will be crucial for ongoing success thought the season. Football, being a demanding sport, requiring dedication and discipline, not only during games but also in practice and preparation leading up to each match will be key to Westshore’s success.By staying committed to the process and continuing to work hard, the team can keep building on their strengths and addressing areas that need improvement Rebels coaches say.
As the season progresses, the Westshore Rebels will have the opportunity to showcase their growth and development on the field. With the positive energy and dedication displayed during the main camp, there’s reason to be optimistic about their performance in the 2023 season.
Under the direction of former Grey Cup champion Dexter Janke, who is serving as the first-year head coach and assistant general manager, the Rebels are looking to make a statement after falling short in the 2022 Cullen Cup championship game to the Okanagan Sun last season.
When asked about his impressions of the team after camp and forward to this season, Head Coach Janke would comment, “We feel pretty good about our group after main camp. Overall, we accomplished what we set out to do. Offensively we have a veteran group. They’ve been working together for a while and building upon a consistent system. We were able to add a few pieces over the off-season that we are excited about as well. We have some core teamers returning from last season which helps maintain a standard and understanding.”
The Rebels’ president and Offensive Coordinator, Rob Lervold, seems to have a wealth of offensive weapons at his disposal, which will undoubtedly add to the team’s potency on the field.
On the offensive side of the ball, the Rebels have some notable veterans returning to the team. Quarterback Te Jessie, who was the 2022 Canadian Junior Football League Most Valuable Player, is back to lead the offense. He had an impressive season in 2022, and his ability to throw and run makes him a versatile threat on the field. Receiver Kieran Poissant, who had a great 2022 season with impressive stats and a preseason with the CJFL BC Lions, is also making a return, bringing his skills to support the offense.
The backfield is bolstered by veteran running back Gerren Hardisty, who, like teammate Cairo Berry, is also a dynamic kick returner. He will be joined by Manny Mansaray and BCFC freshman and BC High School Offensive Allstar Malik Gagne-Smith, adding depth and talent to the running back position.
Those and many more new Rebel recruits will look to provide an entertaining experience for football fans in the lower island and Greater Victoria area this season.
The Westshore Rebels’ defense is a young and enthusiastic group that looks eager to learn and grow. With only 4 players graduating after this season, all indications show that the defensive team will have a strong core of skilled players to build upon and develop for the near future to come.
With competition for starting roles on defense and special teams likely driving the players to push themselves and improve their skills, these efforts will be beneficial to the team’s overall performance. “ Strong communication between the players will be essential for an effective defense, as it allows them to coordinate and respond to different situations on the field. I’m excited to see this group compete in a game and continue to be part of their learning process.”, Janke, who is also acting as Defensive and Special Teams Coordinator, would comment.
The emphasis on team defense will be a crucial aspect of successful Rebels football season . Stating that individual success is tied to the collective effort and can lead to a more cohesive and effective defense, Coach Janke would add, “Understanding when it’s your turn to make a play and understanding you don’t have to make the tackle to make the play as a team.” Football being a team sport, relies every player’s contribution, whether it’s making a tackle or setting up a teammate to make a play, is essential to achieving success as a defensive unit.
The bond that the players are developing through the learning process in the weight room and on the field will likely contribute to their cohesiveness and chemistry during games. A tight-knit team that trusts and supports each other can perform at a higher level and overcome challenges together.
It’s clear that the coaching staff’s dedication to fostering a positive learning environment and instilling a team-first mentality is paying off. As the season progresses, it will be exciting to see this young defense in action and witness their growth and development on the field.
The upcoming schedule is full of excitement, starting with a road game against their island rivals, the VI Raiders of Nanaimo, followed by their home opener against the Kamloops Broncos August 5th at Starlight Stadium in Langford.
With the talent, experience, and enthusiasm in the team, the Westshore Rebels look poised to be strong contenders in the 2023 season. Their impressive track record against the VI Raiders in recent years indicates they’ll be ready to put up a tough fight on the field in game one of the four month-long season. Fans of the Rebels have a lot to look forward to this season, and it will be interesting to see how the team performs under the guidance of their new head coach, Dexter Janke.
Good luck to the Westshore Rebels, and may they have a successful and rewarding season!
