Seahawks dominate in season opener

The Hilton Head Island Seahawks delivered a dominating performance at The Nest, securing a commanding 59-12 victory August 22nd over the North Charleston’s R.B. Stall Warriors.

The Seahawks racked up 554 total yards while scoring eight touchdowns, and the defense stood tall, only allowing two touchdowns long after the starters had left the game. Thaddeus Czarnecki and Jayvin Risher stood out on each side of the ball, and the special teams recovered two onside kicks to shut down any attempt at a comeback.

The Seahawks’ offense ignited early, capitalizing on a three-and-out, and Risher wasted no time in putting Hilton Head on the scoreboard with a 22-yard rushing touchdown, setting the tone for a dominant first half.

The ground game proved to be a weapon for the Seahawks, with Czarnecki, Lincoln Dahlin, and Semaj Robinson also scoring rushing touchdowns. Quarterback Derrick Raniszewski orchestrated the aerial attack with precision, completing 11 of 18 passes for 210 yards and three touchdowns, while also showcasing his versatility with a 12-yard rushing touchdown. Jeremiah Walters was his primary target, hauling in five receptions for 136 yards and two touchdowns, consistently finding openings in the Warriors’ defense.

Hilton Head’s defense also put on a display with two interceptions by Risher and Bubba Gadson, as well as sacks from Czarnecki, Josh Bigger, Luis Erazo, and Benjamin Elliott. Czarnecki totaled seven tackles, three of them for loss. Czarnecki showcased his importance on both sides of the ball, adding 135 total offensive yards and his rushing touchdown.

“It was a good start, but the expectations are higher every week,” Czarnecki said.

The kicking game was strong, too, as Beau Sexson and Cole Linstedt each went 4-for-4 on PATS, and Sexson booted a 25-yard field goal.

The Seahawks started their season off right, but they know the competition level will step up their next game with a trip to James Island, which has beaten Hilton Head four straight times, including back-to-back shutouts.

“We have a lot to prove,” Czarnecki said. “James Island is going to be the game to do it.”

Isaac Roman is a sophomore at Hilton Head Island High School and a student contributor to LowcoSports through the One Lowco Student Journalism Initiative.