CJFL records set

They say “records are meant to be broken,” and in Nanaimo on Saturday that statement came true … four times.

The game was exciting enough as the Vancouver Island Raiders and Langley Rams combined for 96 points as the Raiders handed the Rams their first loss 52-44.

The fireworks began on the opening kick-off as Raiders’ returner Michael Ritchott returned it 105 yards for touchdown.

He then returned a second kick-off 108 yards for a major.  In doing so he set a new Canadian Junior Football League (CJFL) record as the only player ever to return two kick-offs over 100 yards for touchdowns.  His 108 yard return ties a BC Football Conference record.

To add to his amazing day Ritchott also caught a 104 yard touchdown reception and two other shorter kick-off returns.

His 394 all-purpose yards is a new Raiders record and is seventh all-time in CJFL history.

To make the game even more exciting returner John Beckerleg of the Langley Rams added his own flare.  In the first quarter he set a new single season CJFL record with his fourth kick-off return for a touchdown.  He spirited 78 yards for the record setting major.  In total he returned six kicks for 258 yards, third most in BCFC history behind Ritchott.

Beckerleg has returned 618 yards through the first four games of the season, which has set a new Rams record.

The Raiders and Rams will play once more this season, matching up in Langley on Saturday September 20.

Photos courtesy of Allsportmedia.ca/ISN (Beckerleg) & Greg Sakaki (Ritchott)

(Source:  Ryan Watters)