RAMS CELEBRATE 2025 SEASON AT RECOGNITION NIGHT

CRANBROOK - The Rocky Mountain Rams celebrated the program's most successful season since its return in 2017 at its annual Rams Recognition Night.

The 2025 squad posted a 4-1 record with its first-ever victories south of the border in Eureka, Montana and Bonners Ferry Idaho, respectively. After a trio of games in the United States, the Rams transitioned from 11-man football to 9-man for a pair of games against the Kootenay's newest program, the West Kootenay Bears. With two more wins over the Bears, the 2025 campaign wrapped up in Cranbrook with a Jamboree style gameday against the Bears and Pincher Creek Mustangs.

At recognition night, the Rams had the chance to honour its largest senior class, with five players graduating from the program. Payton Bunney, Dylan Davis, Cash Jolie, Tripp Rothwell, and Jonah White were all celebrated for their contributions and leadership they provided throughout their careers with the program.

From L-R SENIORS: Jonah White, Cash Jolie, Tripp Rothwell, Dylan Davis, Payton Bunney

After a successful year, the Rams also handed out some hardware to recognize some outstanding seasons on and off the field.

Junior running back/linebacker Josh Salomons took home Most Outstanding Player honours for the Rams. Salomons handled the bulk of the carries in the offensive backfield at running back and constantly found himself in the opposing team's backfield from his linebacker position on defence. The two-way player consistently performed and racked up a number of highlight reel moments.

Senior receiver Payton Bunney was recognized as the team's Offensive Player of the Year. The fourth-year veteran showcased his skills as an outside receiver with a pair of touchdowns, a number of long receptions, and a consistent ability to make plays in the passing game when the team needed.

The team's Defensive Player of the Year went to junior Donovan Makkreel. Another two-way player, Makkreel showcased his skill and ability on the defensive line with a number of sacks and tackles for loss in his role as an edge rusher.

Senior Jonah White was the recipient of the prestigious "We Not Me" Coaches Award for 2025. White was an exceptional leader and role model for his Rams teammates. In only his second season, White was a steady and consistent presence in practice and games. His fun and friendly demeanour allowed him to connect with all of his teammates. On the field, White turned on the intensity and played any role asked of him, primarily spending his time on the offensive and defensive lines.

Rounding out the awards was Ziggy Kurucz. The sophomore from Kimberley was named the 2025 Rookie of the Year. Kurucz earned the starting quarterback job and made an immediate impact. A product of the Kootenay Football League flag program, Kurucz led multiple long scoring drives and passed for 12 touchdowns on the season.

The Rams will reconvene with sessions over the winter and spring before returning to the field for the 2026 season in August.