Photo courtesy of Rob Cherneff

Following a 2-8 season in 2014 and two new head coaches in the last two years, the Westshore Rebels are looking to bounce back with some stability in 2015.

What Changing?

In a word; LOTS.  The reigning Canadian Junior Football League Executive of the Year Elise Pastro wants to see stability within the organization and is hoping the hiring of new head coach JC Boice will bring some of that back to Rebels.  Boice was busy early bringing a team of well reputable coaches on board with announcement of Doug Hocking (CFL, CJFL and Canadian Bowl coaching staff with the VI Raiders), Scott Mennie (CFL, Rebels alum) and Brian Scott (Rebels alum) as part of his new staff for the upcoming season.

The Rebels are also working hard on the overall fan experience with the launch of a brand new logo, website and new stadium jumbotron to enhance game-day features.

Graduating Players:

* LB Chris Pastro: The heart and soul of the Rebels defensive that was on the field a lot in 2014.  Pastro led the BCFC with 127 defensive points and claimed his second straight Conference All-Star award.  Last season he led the Conference with 37 tackles, and collected 16 assisted stops, three sacks, two blocked kicks and forced a fumble.

* DB Braeden Swatez: The grad led the CJFL with seven interceptions, collecting 94 defensive points.  He also tallied 22 solo tackles, eight assisted stops, three knockdowns, a forced fumble and three fumble recoveries.

* WR Nathan Leader: He spent just one season with the Rebels and headed to the University of Manitoba in the fall.   The White Rock, BC native hauled in 23 passes for 469 yards and major last season.

* WR Griffin Dear: A second Rebels receiver will not return this season as the Calgary native is heading home and will suit up for the University of Calgary Dinos.  Dear caught 28 passes in 2014 for 354 yards and four touchdowns.

What They Need:

After a 2-8 season and the hiring of a new coaching staff, the Rebels are looking for talented players at every position.  With the graduation of two quality receivers that will be a priority for the Rebels, as will the linebacker position, trying to replace Pastro who seemingly filled four defensive positions on each play.  As Coach Boice says, “we have an open competition for every position on both sides of the ball and special teams.”

Counting On:

One of the most consistent players last season for the Rebels was the double threat of quarterback Hunter Lake who will no doubt be relied upon again this year.  Lake threw and ran the ball effectively completing a CJFL high 177 passes for 2,677 yards and 15 touchdowns.  On the ground Lake was the Rebels most dangerous rusher, carrying the rock 62 times for 546 yards and five majors.

The Rebels will hold their Spring Camp May 1-3 at Westhills Stadium.