Heitman primed for another productive season

WILLIAMSBURG — Rayce Heitman did a lot of everything for the Raiders last season in their run to the State Championship.

Heitman got carries on the ground, caught passes, led the team in tackles and was the team’s primary special teams returner.

The versatility Heitman provides can make it hard for opposing teams to limit his production.

The Raider senior is primed to have another big season for a team that will be looking to defend its State Championship.

Heitman’s speed and versatility was on full display last season, highlighted in a game against South Tama in which he scored four touchdowns to start the game — two pick-sixes and two punt returns.

He will be used in a similar way this season.

“I’ll probably be a little bit of Swiss army knife again but not too much different from last year,” Heitman said.

A new quarterback, Grant Hocker, will be handing off and throwing the ball to Heitman this year.

“Grant probably would have played more last year if it wasn’t for a broken wrist in week two. Besides that, he’s stepped in and done what he’s been expected to so far and is playing pretty well, Heitman said.

As an experienced senior, Heitman will also have more of a leadership role this season for a team with some newer faces stepping up.

“I’ve took more of a leadership role, definitely with playing a lot the last few years it’s kind of expected of me,” Heitman said.

“I’m not really a leader by talking, but more by showing. Do what you thinks right and people will follow.”

Although the team has lost some key players, Heitman is confident that others will now step up.

“Our coach always preaches on not just having 11 people that can play, but like 20 people deep that you can rely to play a game,” Heitman said.

“It helps having those people that played behind some last year, being able to come in and help us. They got some reps last year when we were up big in games.”

  Buy Photo

Heitman is a full go for the Raiders after previously having elbow surgery on a torn UCL, commonly known as Tommy John surgery.

“I’ve had no restrictions or issues with football,” Heitman said.

Heitman’s abilities have garnered some attention from collegiate coaches, but is still undecided about playing football at the next level.

“I haven’t really decided if I want to go play somewhere in college. I’ll have to decide sometime this season,” Heitman said.

The Raiders are currently preparing for a scrimmage against Cedar Rapids Kennedy this Friday and will kick off their regular season the following Friday against West Branch.