The Eaglecrest Raptor football team is looking to, above all else, create a team for 2025 that can leave a legacy. 

They call it ECB.

Raptor players shared their dedication to a growing brotherhood – Eaglecrest Crest Brotherhood. Senior leader Cameron Bell described ECB as an idea where all players display a culture of family.

“My team goal is to play to our full potential every game, while also having fun and building a brotherhood,” Bell said. 

The potential to compete with state champion and Centennial League rival Cherry Creek High School is there, but players will need to buy-in to the system and culture coach Jesse German is installing. 

The coaches have laid down a challenge to build a culture and rise with unity this year and in the years to come. With this year’s experienced leaders now under their second year with Coach German, the Raptors are ready to make their mark. 

Bell, who plays both sides of the ball at defensive back and wide receiver, explained that his personal goals align directly with the team’s mission. 

“My personal goal is to be an All-State safety and do the most that I can for my team,” Bell said. “I want to leave the most impactful legacy for the younger generations; I also strive to build a strong and resilient foundation for Eaglecrest football.” 

For the Raptors this season, it is more than wins and losses. It’s about raising the standard, leaving a legacy, and showing that when a team plays as one, the impact lasts long after the season ends.

If they succeed with that goal, future teams will benefit in the win-loss column from this team’s dedication to Raptor football.

Last year, the raptors had a season full of ups and downs, but this year, senior Javon Jones is at the heart of the team’s mission. Playing both defensive lineman and tight end, Jones believes the team’s connection and bond this year will help them rise up when times get tough. 

“The difference this year is the connection. We are all brothers,” Jones said. “I’m excited for this season because I feel like we are prepared to compete in big games, and that we can rely on each other. That’s going to help us win.”

For Jones, being a leader means striving toward the ultimate goal. 

“I’m striving for state; there’s no need for me to sell us short,” Jones said. “As a team we feel like we have not only the guys but also the talent to do it. It’s ours to lose. I’m excited for what is to come this season.”

That mentality reflects what the Raptors stand for this season. With the belief from these leaders like Jones and Bell and the dedication from players and coaches, Eaglecrest looks prepared for something special. 

Coaches have emphasized that this season is as much about the players’ mindset as it is about execution. Junior Cy White shared that means the Raptors will execute exactly what the coaches are emphasizing: a culture of players doing their role for the team. 

“This has had a great impact on the team as over summer we’ve noticed a more connected team plays better, and the confidence in each other flows throughout,” White said. “I feel like ECB isn’t just something we say; it’s who and what we are.”

Highlights from Raptors vs. Rock Canyon Scrimmage

Last Thursday, Eaglecrest hosted Rock Canyon in the annual Raptor Rally scrimmage. Several players shared their thoughts afterward.

Sophomore Clyde Surrell IV on the vibe:

“I felt really good about today. Something that stood out to me was our energy. During the scrimmage I believe we didn’t have enough energy, so that is something that we will fix. If we want to get the results we expect, we need to bring energy on all sides of the ball, and that goes for offense, defense, and special teams.” 

Senior Adriel Richardson on what they learned from the scrimmage: 

“The scrimmage showed us where we’re strong and where we need to get better. I think it was a good test, and we’re ready to build from it.”

Senior Braylen Deruso:

“What stood out the most in the scrimmage today is how connected our team has become; we’re able to get through any struggle we face together. We keep our heads down and keep working; we’re ready to rock this season.”

Senior Quincy Clayton about moving on to the next play: 

“There were many positives and some negatives that we as a team will fix. Something that stood out to me during it was our ability to forget about something bad that happened and move onto the next play.” 

Senior Zane Jackson: “We’re not satisfied yet.”

The Raptors start their season this Friday night for the home opener game against Rangeview high school!