Football
After opening the season with losses to two area powerhouses, Rio Americano football picked up its first win Friday night in dominating fashion, shutting out McClatchy 46-0 at Hughes Stadium.
Rio lost its home opener to the Granite Bay Grizzlies, 34-10.
A week later the Raiders played at Jesuit in the school’s first game under permanent stadium lights. Despite the support of a cheering section that walked down American River Drive, Rio lost 56-7.
The team is preparing for league play in a new and highly competitive league. Their biggest test will likely come against Inderkum.
Water Polo
Five days after a blowout loss to Jesuit by the Raider football squad, the boys’ water polo team returned to Jesuit and then returned the favor, crushing the Marauders, 16-9.
Players say the success is a total team effort, but leading the Raiders are the Ruano brothers, sophomore Lucas and senior Matt. Lucas led the team in scoring with 109 points and assists. Lucas is second in scoring with 98 and leads in steals. Harper Gardner has been dominant in goal.
The boys are in a good position to repeat as Sac-Joaquin section champions.
Girls’ water polo has also come out with a strong start. The girls beat rival St. Francis 8-7 on Sept. 4 and over the weekend continued their winning streak by topping Liberty 11-2.
Girls’ Volleyball
The girls’ volleyball team looks to be back in the hunt for a league title, despite the departure of several outstanding seniors at the end of last season. The Raiders, who went 37-6 last year, started pre-league play 6-3.
Coach John Grix expects big contributions from co-captains Cameryn Barry and Camden Kalhoff as well as junior standout Kendall Carrey.
The team’s biggest challenge will come against league rival Christian Brothers.
Cross Country
Coming off one their best seasons in years, Rio Americano cross country may run away with more trophies this year.
The girls are led by senior Kianna Larsson, who emerged as team MVP as a sophomore and last year helped the team qualify for the state championship meet.
Girls’ Tennis
Under the guidance of coach Gina Costello, the girls’ tennis team is hoping to return to the playoffs. The girls are led by captains Marianna Garcia and Quinn Ingham.
Players agree the pre-season has gone well, despite playing tough opponents.
Junior Amanda Tran, a No. 1 doubles player, says part of the success owes to Costello’s spirited assistant coaches.
“The assistant coaches (Jenny Thompson and Nicole Swanson) (have made a significant contribution) because they are full of spirit,” Tran said. “They keep the team really positive and they push you to try harder, be confident, and play smart.”
