Comets look to take down No. 1 4A team in Alberta for second straight week

Posted on September 18, 2025 by admin

By Garrett Simmons
Westwind Weekly News 

Once a team gets on a roll in any sport, it can be difficult to stop.

For the Raymond Comets, a three-game winning streak has the team flying high, as the high school juggernaut still sits No. 2 in the Football Alberta 5A rankings.

The latest win for the Comets came at the expense of the Holy Trinity Academy Knights, a team that just one week ago, was ranked No. 1 in 4A.

But the Comets proved the gap between the two teams was a large one, as Raymond emerged with a massive 50-14 victory.

“We played good against HTA,” said Comets coach Connor Ralph, whose quarterback, Walker Gibb, picked up five passing touchdowns.

Seth Harding and Gunner Nelson were Gibb’s main targets on the evening, as the Comets simply carved up HTA through the air.

Raymond’s explosive offense was impressive but throughout the contest, the Comets were equally solid on the other side of the ball.

“The defence did very well and forced some turnovers and flew around,” said Ralph.

On special teams, Brody Beazer drilled a 42-yard field goal, as Raymond had all phases of its game clicking.”

The Comets thrilled a capacity home crowd that gathered at Victoria Sports Park for the Harvest Showdown. Free food for the first 1,000 fans, face painting, a halftime show and the Comet All-Star

Cheerleaders made it a night to remember for the home side. The evening also included fireworks, which contributed to an electric atmosphere.

Coming off that huge home win, Raymond prepares for Thursday’s contest in Airdrie against the George McDougall Mustangs.

McDougall is the new No. 1 team in 4A, as the team is coming off a 31-7 victory over Chestermere.

“It should be a fun challenge,” said Ralph. “They are a good, up and coming program, so we are looking forward to the challenge ahead.”

“The Birds of Prey Centre is not only rescuing and rehabilitating wildlife, it’s showcasing what our region stands for – collaboration, stewardship, and pride in preserving our natural heritage.”

“The Centre is a little gem and a major stakeholder in Coaldale, Van Rijn added. “Colin Weir and his team bring tourism, education, and conservation together, all without government subsidies, relying instead on the generosity of residents.” 

In a press release, the Alberta Birds of Prey Centre noted that with winter quickly approaching, the fall migration has already begun and Swainson’s Hawks have the farthest journey. They often gather in large flocks and fly south to Argentina.

The Birds of Prey Centre in Coaldale was started by Wendy Slaytor and Colin Weir.  

Focusing on birds of prey, including eagles, owls, hawks and falcons, the centre has provided volunteer wildlife rescue and release since 1983. The facility opened to the public in 1991 and since then, they have showcased the wildlife of southern Alberta by delivering inspiring, environmental learning opportunities every spring and summer. The facility continues to operate year-round on a volunteer basis, without government subsidies. 

“The City of Lethbridge and Town of Coaldale have been instrumental and very appreciated with their leadership and support, helping make our facility and conservation work possible,” said Colin Weir, executive director at the Alberta Birds of Prey Centre. 

Although the Alberta Birds of Prey Centre closed for the season on Labour Day Monday, the centre was open on Sept. 13 and 14, and will be open for a second special weekend with seasonal hours between 9:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. on Sept. 20 and 21. The weekend will include several regular features such as eagle demonstrations at 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m., and owl presentations at 12 p.m. and 2 p.m. both days, as well as owl photo opportunities throughout the weekend.    

The Alberta Birds of Prey Centre will re-open in May 2026.