JR RAIDERS YOUTH CAMP

Jr Raiders Youth Camp a Massive Success in Nanaimo

This past weekend, the Vancouver Island Raiders proudly hosted our first-ever Jr Raiders Youth Camp, a landmark moment in the growth of our football program and our commitment to youth development on Vancouver Island.

Powered by our offseason training partner Caged Athletics, the camp welcomed dozens of young athletes from across the Harbour City and beyond. Under the guidance of Raiders coaches and players, the youth participants took part in a full day of football fundamentals, skill-building drills, team competitions, and mentorship, all in the spirit of fun, focus, and development.

The day was made possible thanks to the generous support of Sasquatch HVAC, the event's presenting sponsor. With temperatures soaring, their support ensured we had everything needed to keep athletes cool, hydrated, and safe throughout the day. As a proud local company, Sasquatch HVAC continues to show what it means to support community sport, both on and off the field.

If you're feeling the heat this summer, we encourage all VI Raiders fans and families to visit sasquatchhvac.ca and learn how their team can help keep your home comfortable, cool, and efficient all season long. Trust us — they’ve got your back.

Adding to the excitement, the Jr Raiders were honoured to welcome Boseko Lokombo — a CFL All-Star and Grey Cup Champion — as a special guest coach. Lokombo shared his football journey, led on-field drills, and delivered an inspiring message about discipline, hard work, and the power of believing in yourself.

“This is the kind of day you remember as a kid,” said VI Raiders HC Shawn Arabsky. “We’re building more than football players — we’re building leaders, teammates, and a new generation of young athletes who love this sport. We couldn’t have asked for a better launch to the Jr Raiders camp series.”

📸 Relive the day through our official photo gallery, captured beautifully by our camp photographer Soulful Stills Photography. View the full album here:
👉 https://soulfulstillsphotography5.pixieset.com/viraidersjuniorcamp2025/

OR GO HERE: Jr Raiders Youth Camp

As the VI Raiders continue celebrating our 20th season, events like these showcase our deep-rooted mission: to give back to our community, grow the game, and develop talent from the ground up.

Stay tuned for more Jr Raiders programming coming this fall — and thank you again to all the families, volunteers, coaches, sponsors, and partners who helped make this first camp a resounding success.