As Coach Mark Raczkowski begins his first full offseason at Eaton Rapids, he's laying the foundation for long-term success—one weight lifted, one sprint completed, and one rep at a time. The focus is clear: build a competitive culture from the ground up, rooted in strength, speed, and leadership.
Offseason Focus: Installing the Program
Still in his first year, Coach Raczkowski is introducing his full offseason program. The key priorities? Establishing a strong weight room culture and involving as many athletes as possible in strength, speed, and agility sessions. The goal is to prepare mentally and physically for the demands of a tough season ahead.
Summer Camps & Team Development
The Greyhounds are maximizing their summer with multiple developmental events:
In-house summer camps tailored to their system
University prospect camps attended individually by athletes
7-on-7 competitions and lineman agility camps for sharpening skills
A team camp to kick off the season and build chemistry
Players to Watch: Grit, Growth & Comebacks
Several players have stood out this offseason through effort, leadership, and resilience:
Jackson White – After a tough injury last season, he’s been relentless in the weight room, making major gains in speed and strength. He’s ready to lead.
Kalib Gochenour – An All-Conference lineman and the team’s lone senior up front, Kalib returns to lead by example with an offseason full of hard work.
Keegan Gochenour – A three-sport athlete, student council member, and NHS scholar, Keegan bounced back stronger after an injury last year. He’s set for a big year.
Young Talent on the Rise:
Watch for contributions from Cannon Nealy, Jameson Brown, Owen Smith, Braylon McGuirt, Connor Nofke, Logan Adleman, Chris Bird, Brodey Cataline, Michael Chapetes, Jacob Droaste, Don Hoyt, Gavin Pickett, Blake Grimes, Nolan Saltmen, and Cole Strank—all returning players with high potential.
Fitness Culture: Speed, Strength & Leadership
The offseason plan runs from March through August and is no joke:
4-man lifting sessions
Speed/agility drills
Hill training for power and stamina
Leadership sessions
A flag football league
A five-week QB camp to hone quarterback skills and decision-making
Nutrition & Health
While there’s no formal program, the team emphasizes healthy eating and hydration, especially around training sessions and team meals. Coaches ensure players understand the importance of fueling their bodies for performance.
Coaching Philosophy: Evolving & United
The coaching staff is committed to evolving alongside their players. They attend clinics, meet monthly, and fine-tune the offense annually to best match the team’s strengths.
Community Connection
Community support is a vital piece of the Eaton Rapids football identity.
Frequent updates via school and athletic websites
Monthly coach articles to keep everyone informed
Parent and community involvement in events and fundraising
Looking Ahead: Big League, Big Goals
Competing in one of Michigan’s toughest leagues presents a major challenge, with recent league opponents reaching state, regional, and district championship games. Coach Raczkowski knows what it takes: “We’re offering everything our athletes need to compete. With a little extra work—and a little luck—we believe great things are coming.”
Eaton Rapids Football is on a mission: grow stronger, lead louder, and compete harder. The Greyhounds are building something special—brick by brick.
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