The Riverton football team has had its ups and downs this season, but at least two players have been consistently strong game in and game out. Team leaders Dane Slack and KT Faleatu have been outstanding on the offensive side of the ball for head coach James Freeland and his squad. 

Slack, a senior wide receiver, and Faleatu, a senior offensive lineman, helped the Silverwovles to a pair of victories in their first six games. Riverton defeated Syracuse 13-7 in the season opener Aug. 16 and got by Pleasant Grove 21-7 on Sept. 13. In addition, Riverton jumped into Region 2 play on Sept. 20, falling at home to Herriman 26-17. 

Slack and Faleatu have been mainstays for the offense. 

Through six games, Slack scored eight touchdowns, grabbing all by one of the TD passes quarterback Andrew Nielson had thrown. Slack had three touchdown receptions (52 yards, 15 yards and 6 yards) in a 28-21 loss to Ridgeline on Aug. 23, accounting for all of the touchdowns the team had that night. In the victory Pleasant Grove, he had touchdown grabs of 58 and 48 yards. He also had a 17-yard TD pass reception against Syracuse, a 1-yard TD reception against American Fork on Sept. 6 and an 18-yard touchdown catch against Herriman. His totals through six games were good enough for third-best in Class 6A. 

Slack is a speedy wideout who often finds himself open because of his ability to get by defensive backs. He has goals to get even better as the season winds down. 

“My strengths are my speed and my ability to get open and catch the ball,” he said. “I would like to get stronger and put on some weight, get better at running smoother routes, and be more aggressive towards the defensive back.”

Slack started playing competitively when he was 9, largely because his older brothers played, and he wanted to do what they were doing. It didn’t take him long to excel on the football field and find that he had natural talent. Slack loves the game because of the competitive nature. He also enjoys the team unity at Riverton. 

“I like most the love and respect we have for each other,” he said. 

Slack wants to play at the next level and is hoping for a chance to be a wide receiver in college. As for the rest of this season, Slack acknowledges that the Silverwolves have had some tough games during the early part of the season, but he is optimistic that the team can turn things around and be a threat in the region race and in the postseason. 

“The team has struggled, but we are getting better each week,” he said. “Up to now, I have had a good season, but I hope we will be able to gain the confidence that we need to make a push for region.”

Faleatu is an imposing force, standing at 6 feet 4 inches. The lineman uses his strength and skills to open holes for the Riverton running game and give his quarterback time to throw to Slack and the other pass-catchers. He is working on his speed and spends time in the weight room increasing his strength.

“Some of my strengths are my size and power, and I want continue to better my craft and get stronger and faster,” Faleatu said. 

You could say that football runs in his blood.

Faleatu started playing at the young age of 7 at the encouragement of his father and the motivation of his brothers.

 “My dad wanted me to play,” he said. “Plus, all my other brothers played, and I’ve looked up to my brother, and I wanted to be like him, so I started football.”

Football has taught Faleatu much about teamwork and putting forth effort to accomplish goals. He is grateful for the lessons he has learned and the positive experiences he has had with his teammates. 

“What I enjoy most is that it’s fun to play,” he said. “I enjoy the competition and making goals and getting better. I learned self-discipline, and I enjoy the brotherhood and the team aspect of it.”

As a sophomore, Faleatu got to play with his brother. He also appreciates the chance to represent the school and play alongside who he calls his “brothers that he grew up with.” He’s grateful to have made many friends on the field in his career. 

Being successful on the field doesn’t come automatically. Achieving goals, winning goals and making big plays only happens after many hours of work. 

“It’s taken me lot of hard work and practice during the offseason and during the season,” Faleatu said. 

Riverton had a huge challenge on Sept. 27 when it played at state power Corner Canyon. The Silverwolves than hosted Bingham Oct. 4. Riverton closes the regular season Oct. 11 at home against Mountain Ridge followed by the finale at Copper Hills. The Class 6A state tournament begins Oct. 25. At press time, the Silverwolves were 15th out of 18 teams in the RPI rankings, which determines the playoff matchups. 

Faletatu intends to give it his all as the season comes to a close. His Riverton career may end soon, but he won’t be ready to step away from game for a while. He also wants to go on a volunteer mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints after he graduates. 

“I hope to get offers and continue my football career to the next level,” he said. “My plans are to serve my mission for my church and play at the collegiate level.” λ