Former Raiders receiver earning spot with Winnipeg Rifles

Steinbach’s Jamie Peters is loving every minute of being a part of the Winnipeg Rifles junior football team this season.

A product of the strong Eastman Raiders minor football system in Steinbach, Peters first strapped on football pads at the age of 11, and never looked back.

Peters, at 5’10”, 167 lbs. is not big by football standards, but uses his good hands and speed to his advantage on the field. Coming up through the ranks in Steinbach, he played on both sides of the ball at various positions and only switched to receiver a couple of years ago.

Over the years, Peters has played linebacker, safety and running back. The past two years, he has been a receiver for Team Manitoba, competing at the national championships in Ottawa.

Two years ago Peters was a member of the highly successful Eastman Midget Raiders team which lost in the Manitoba Midget Football League championship game. One of the coaches of that team was Jamie’s father, Richard Peters, who now coaches the Raiders entry in the Manitoba Major Football League.

The elder Peters, one of the most prolific volunteer coaches in the region, segues effortlessly from season to season as he coaches girls’ softball, football and hockey.

In an interview following the Rifles’ final home game season Sunday afternoon at Winnipeg Stadium, Jamie said he also played on hockey teams coached by his dad.

“I’d have to say I prefer playing football for him; it’s a little easier than hockey.”

Peters is biding his time with the Rifles this year, as he has seen only limited action as a first year player. The Rifles, in their third season in the Prairie Football Conference, have shown steady improvement since their inaugural one win, seven loss campaign. Last year, they improved to 2-6 and Sunday afternoon at the Stadium, the Rifles improved to 3-4 this season with a spirited 36-23 victory over the Prairie Thunder from Regina, nailing down their first ever play-off spot.

After graduating from midget two years ago, Peters tried out for the U of M Bisons last season and ended up suiting up for the St Vital Mustangs in the Manitoba Major Football League.

This season, Peters has dressed for five of the team’s seven games, including all four at home and also made one trip to Edmonton. He has played in two games hauling in three long passes for 85 yards.

Peters, 19, is patient and there is no bitterness at not getting more playing time. He says he is just soaking in the whole experience.

“This is great football. This is a whole step up, even from Team Manitoba.”

The players are well coached, as the Rifles have a total of 11 coaches on staff, headed up by Mike Watson. Other coaches include the likes of offensive line coach Moe Elwonibi of the Winnipeg Blue Bombers and former Blue Bomber Doug Hocking is one of the linebacker coaches. As well, other members of the Bombers have periodically helped out, including Marcus Howell.

Being a member of the Rifles is a considerable commitment, as the team practices five nights a week at the Stadium. Winter workouts were held at the Golf Dome in February, followed by the spring camp in May.

“I have learned so much about football with the Rifles, the level of football is that much higher.”

A physical education student at the University of Manitoba, Peters says he might try out for the Bisons next year, but his intention is to solidify his position with the Rifles first.

“My goal is to play university football within two or three years.”