VI Raiders Spring Camp Recap
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
VI Raiders Spring Camp Recap: Energy, Execution & Excitement for 2025
The VI Raiders officially kicked off their 20th anniversary season with a high-energy Spring Camp this past weekend, welcoming over 70 players and a full coaching staff to Nanaimo. Over three days, athletes were tested through full system installs, competitive challenge periods, and live scrimmages, all under the ever-changing skies of the Harbour City.
“I was really impressed with the overall vibe of the camp,” said Head Coach Shawn Arabsky. “From the organization, the coaching staff, and the players, everyone was aligned with continuing our mission of becoming a better football team. I was really proud of the recruits that came in and raised the standard, and the returners who continue to lead the ship. We've got two and a half months to take it to another level.”
Friday night opened camp in classic West Coast fashion, cold, rainy, and relentless. Despite the conditions, players rose to the occasion, especially during high-intensity challenge periods. While the offense worked through some early rhythm issues, the defense responded with fast, physical play on the slick field.
Saturday brought the biggest workload of the weekend. A beautiful sunny morning turned into a downpour by the afternoon, testing every player’s focus and resilience. The team continued installing new systems and raised the practice tempo throughout both sessions.
“I’m fired up heading into the 2025 season and my second year as Offensive Coordinator,” said OC Jake Laberge. “We’ve got a strong core returning on offense, including key playmakers like Ruben Bonsu, Jake Giokas, Rhonda Lyle, and Blaze McCarty. Add in high-impact players like Ole Krebs, Alex Walters, and Tal Ibrahim, they’ve already raised the bar. Our quarterback battle is going to push the whole offense to a new level.”
Special thanks to our major Spring Camp sponsors:
Sawmill Direct our Major Sponsors, and their second straight year of support.
Popeye’s Supplements Nanaimo, who donated protein bars and helped outfit the team in special edition Spring Camp shirts.
Quality Foods Harewood, who delivered fresh sandwiches, fruit, and Gatorade for the entire team on Saturday.
The Sip Bar, who showed up huge with hot burgers and fries for players and coaches.
Sunday began with some minor equipment challenges but quickly got back on track. The final session featured a full team split scrimmage, allowing athletes to showcase growth and compete in a game-style setting. The sideline energy and community presence added to a big-finish atmosphere.
“VI Raiders have been working hard to make the 20th anniversary special from the ground up,” said Vice President Dave Shortill. “Raider Nation is back, baby. Come get on board the boat, 2025 is going to surprise a few teams.”
The weekend also offered an exciting first look at the 2025 recruiting class.
“Typically we don't get much credit for our recruiting classes,” said Recruiting Coordinator Jordan Kuziek, “but I think this is maybe the most athletic, high-character group of young men we’ve brought to the VI Raiders in the past 10 years. That will show come July 19th.”
The camp atmosphere was elevated by strong community engagement. Food trucks, a beer garden, and a 60-foot bouncy castle helped create a true football festival feel in Nanaimo.
Special shoutouts to Cole McGarvey at Canadian Football Fanatics, Kim Knopp from Soulful Still Photos, and Board Member Sheri Sansbury for capturing and sharing outstanding media and content throughout the weekend.
With Spring Camp now in the books, the VI Raiders turn their focus to final roster decisions, the 20th Anniversary Golf Tournament on June 21, and the countdown to kickoff on July 19.
