The VI Raiders finished the BCFC season on a three game winning streak and an overall 4-6 record. The team has begun to turn the corner after a winless campaign in 2023. (Sheri Sansbury/VI Raiders)

By Dan Marshall

On the Rise

VI Raiders end BCFC season on a winning note

Oct 12, 2024 | 6:13 AM

NANAIMO — The VI Raiders were a much improved football team in 2024.

After an 0-10 campaign a year ago the Raiders ended their most recent campaign at 4-6 while putting together a three game winning streak heading into the offseason.

Head Coach Shawn Arabsky said there’s a lot more work ahead but the club is trending in the right direction.

“Our goal is playoffs but honestly finishing the season on a three game winning streak is almost as good in terms of process and vibe around the organization. We did a lot of good things and there’s a lot to build off of. There’s also a lot of awareness about some of the things we didn’t do this year we have to work on.”

The Raiders can bring back all but six players next year and the team expects the coaching staff to stay largely intact.

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The organization off the field has put in countless hours towards improving and Arabsky noted their success starts with two key pillars.

“Structure and stability. Then next is talent and culture on the team. Obviously we needed to bring in talent and guys that were ready to work and buy in and they did a really good job of doing that. It’s really changed from the last couple years.”

VI struggled to find wins right away but Arabsky said their were signs of growth right from the get go.

“We lost our first game in PG but then our first home game against Okanagan was a game that showed us we can play with anyone. Later on beating Westshore showed not only can we beat anyone but sometimes dominate. The Valley game was another one, the first game we came from behind and scored on our final drive.”

On Oct. 11 the BCFC named it’s league all stars and quarterback Sadler Smith, receiver Ruben Bonsu and defensive back Felice Toscano all earned all star status.

Arabsky was quick to also praise team MVP and graduating defensive back Savion Townsend for his contribution.

“He came in and did everything we asked and is one of the most talented and most coachable players in the league. As for Sadler Smith he was our offensive MVP and in my mind the best quarterback in the league. Ruben finished with the triple crown of catches, yards and touchdowns and Felice Toscano was one of the best corners in the league. Those are probably our four best players but we have a lot of talent.”

The work has already begun for 2025.

“It starts with our offseason workout program and we’ve already started recruiting. Our coaching staff needs to keep growing so we can put the kids in the best position to succeed. There’s a lot that goes into it.”

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