Tallahassee, FL (WTXL) -- There are a different set of expectations now at Rickards High School. A season after losing in the second round of the playoffs to state runner-up Wakulla, the Raiders now expect to make a deep run in the playoffs.
"We are trying to take this program to the next level," Rickards head coach Quentin Lewis said. "We are trying to win the first district title since 2001. We are trying to make it past the second round for the first time ever in Rickards High School history and we are right in line to have a chance to win a state championship. That was really not thought of about five or six years ago at Rickards High School."
Last season Rickards split its district games. The Raiders beat Godby, but lost to Wakulla. Coach Lewis realizes those two games ultimately decide their postseason fate. In 2014, they only lost four games, but two of those losses came to Godby and Wakulla. As a result, Rickards missed the playoffs.
"Coming off an 8-3 year the expectations are high." Lewis said. "With that comes more responsibility for these guys and they are accepting the challenge very, very, very well. It's about building that tradition and changing the image of Rickards High School and I think these guys are doing it right."
Playing summer 7-on-7 football helped the offense. The Raiders finished forth at a Cam Newton 7-on-7 tournament. Still its important to keep his team grounded.
"We still fell short of our goals." Lewis said. "We lost to Wakulla twice and that really put a bad taste in our mouth. We know we were looking to win a state championship last year and we fell short. I shouldn't have to encourage them at all. They are motivated to be great."
Rickards opens the season August 26 on the road against Madison.
