What does it mean to be a Raider?

In the 1969-70 school year when Stevens High School opened the doors we decided to call ourselves the “Raiders”. Some say we chose that name because the Oakland Raiders football team was so popular back then. We say it's to honor a Marine Special Forces group from World War II called the “Marine Raiders”. They were fearless, relentless and spent much of their time behind enemy lines!

No military unit in the history of the United States brought more honor and glory to themselves, more pride to their countrymen, and more grief to their enemies as the four United States Marine Raider Battalions of World War II. It is imperative that their heritage and exploits live long past the surviving Raiders.

The Marine Raiders made the initial ground offensives against the Japanese in World War II; they participated in turning around the Japanese advance; the only ground unit that participated in every island assault in the Solomon Islands; following which, Raiders as individuals or units were in virtually every Island hopping event in the Pacific War and the first landing in Japan after it’s announced surrender.

To truly honor them we must train and compete fearlessly and relentlessly!

That means we need a 100% Effort - 100% of the time, not a 100% Effort - 80% of the time! And definitely not an 80% effort - 100% of the time!

Do not be a selective Participant!!!!

• They find reasons to come to practice late!

• They find reasons to leave practice early!

• And when the going gets tough; they find reasons to sit the bench!