It was a semi-final finish for the U17 Airdrie Raiders spring football team.

The Airdrie Raiders of the Calgary Spring Football Association lost to the Calgary Cowboys 15-13, which ended their season.

Steve Kemp, the Head Coach of the Raiders is proud of how his team played.

"We sputtered on offence, but our defence stood strong as they had all year and played hard. We started moving the ball late in the game but unfortunately, just ran out of time. I'm proud of the team with their fight right to the end."

During the regular season, the Raiders went 5-1.

"We had another great year and did a lot of good things, a lot of positive things, a lot of learning and a lot of growth from our athletes."

Kemp mentioned there was some turnover when it came to the leadership group but the players next up, stepped up.

Although they fell short of their goal, Kemp believes they are moving in the right direction.

This year's roster had 60 players, with 18 graduating.

"We have a development roster of guys who play in a season of exhibition games, then have an active roster that plays in the regular season games."

The main goal of the team is to develop and teach these young athletes and help them become even better football players.

Kemp is looking forward to next year as he does have high hopes for the team.

"We're still looking for that division one championship. We've got a great group of returning kids that are coming back, we're hoping to be another top contending team."

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