JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – As the Raines Vikings prepare for their Round 3 playoff showdown against Bishop Kenny, the undefeated team took a moment to reflect on what matters most during this Thanksgiving season.
“I’m thankful for an opportunity to just put on a show for Viking nation on Friday night,” junior Johdeem Jones said. “Growing up my family has been very Viking oriented. I love my family and I just want to put on a show for them as well.”
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For many players, the opportunity to practice during Thanksgiving isn’t seen as a sacrifice but rather a blessing.
“I’m thankful to be practicing on Thanksgiving,” senior Arquis Robinson said.
“I’m thankful for my mom, my family and the ability to play on Thanksgiving this week,” senior Cody Levy said.
Family emerged as a common theme among the Vikings, with several players expressing deep appreciation for their support systems.
“I’m thankful for my family… that lady that’s looking from up there.” junior Troy Butler said in reference to his mom who passed away in 2023.
The journey to this point hasn’t been without its challenges.
“Being put in an opportunity to play at this school,” junior Isaiah Madyun said. “I had a lot of stuff going on and I probably wasn’t going to play at this school. And all my family and my coaches made this possible,”
Some players found strength in their faith and mentors.
“I’m thankful for God, my family, this great coaching staff for believing in me,” junior Jabari Denefield said.
Senior Jamarri Solomon added, “God, my family and my coaches because without them I wouldn’t be where I am today.”
Even in serious moments, the team maintained its sense of humor, with freshman Nicholas Davis declaring, “I’m thankful for macaroni and cheese because its the best side dish of all time.”
As Raines prepares for their crucial matchup against Bishop Kenny, with a Final Four appearance on the line, the team’s gratitude extends from the practice field to the dinner table. Several players said they’re thankful for the opportunity to put their work on display on Friday for the fan.
“Raines Round 3 let’s get it,” senior Tony Williams said.
Kickoff with Bishop Kenny is set for Friday at 6:30 p.m.
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