Willy Christensen
Raider Report staffer

Three weeks after the resignation of Jordan Kopac, the Racine Raiders formally announced the hiring of Gino Perfetto as the team’s new head coach. Perfetto, who previously served as an assistant coach and on the Board of Directors, will be replacing Kopac, who left the team after a  combined five year tenure as head coach.

“I am excited to be working with Gino. He seems to be a coach that knows what needs to be done, and he knows what type of players we need to recruit and the type of player that will fit in with the team,” said Raiders general manager Bob Marcado.

Perfetto coached numerous area teams in the past, including high school squads at Union Grove, St. Catherine’s and Racine Lutheran.

“My style of coaching is I’m a communicator. I like to communicate with the players and let them know what’s going on. I think we should be a hard-nosed type team, and a hardworking team,” said Perfetto.

Marcado said the ability to communicate was a factor that went into the decision to hire Perfetto as coach.

Other changes within the Raider’s staff include Gregg Brenner taking over as quarterbacks coach, Greg Fictum coaching the offensive line, John Pintar with linebackers, former player Anthony Wooden with wide receivers and special teams, and former head coach John Mamerow coaching the running backs. Returning coaches include Pedro Trevino, Wilbert Kennedy and Matt Nelson.

“I’m thrilled with the coaching staff. We have a lot of great football minds and I couldn’t be happier,” said Perfetto.

Team tryouts on March 31 mark the beginning of a new season, and after a successful 2011 campaign, expectations for the team and the new head coach are high.

“There’s a lot of tradition you have to live up to with the Raiders. Sometimes it’s a little overwhelming, but it’s something I love to do, and I’m proud and honored to have this opportunity,” Perfetto said.p