The Skinny
The Mays Raiders are the defending 5-6A champion. They made an impressive run into the quarterfinals. But Coach Niketa Battles knows that this season presents it’s own set of challenges. We asked Coach Battle about the biggest challenge he and his staff faces coming into 2018
“Preparing first time Varsity players after losing 18 starters,” Battle said.
While a ton of talent was lost to graduation, the Raiders return some experience at quarterback and running back. Tyree Nelson lead the team last year in rushing with 769 yards and 10 TDs. While quarterback Jahquez Evans was second on the team in passing with 994 yards and 12 TDs. Evans was also second on the team in rushing.
Defensively, Monticello Edwards will lead an inexperienced secondary. Edwards was tied for second on the team with two interceptions last season.
Newcomer Jaquari Wiggles is a name that we should familiarize ourselves with along the defensive line for the Raiders. The junior has already been offered by FAU and UNC.
Coach Battle told us, “Every game is a State Championship Game,” when we asked if there was a game circled on the schedule. The Raiders certainly aren’t easing into the 2018 season as they are set to take on perennial power Norcross in the Corky Kell Classic on Saturday, August 18th.
While the faces may be new and untested in some instances, the goals stay the same for Mays. We asked how successful would be defined this season and there was no hesitation from Coach Battle.
“Successfully defending our Region Championship Title,” he said.
