THE OFFICIAL HOME OF
THE CEDAR RAPTORS
INTRODUCING THE RAPTORS
Meet the Players
The Passionate. The Dedicated. The First.
Announcing the first Cedar Raptors Football Players. They are here to show Cedar Rapids, and the rest of the world, what they can do with hard work, training, and an endless level of team spirit.
#0
Bayanna "Bay" Berry
I have experience I played in elementary/middle school. I wrestle, I played softball, I ran track and field, I played basketball nd I played football. Football was the very first sport I played with boys and it was full contact and I was very good at it I’m in love with the sport I haven’t played inna while but they said football is like music once u learn da melody it won’t leave ya mind/body im just happy to get another shot to play. When bay get on the field she “standing on business”.
#1
Parker Belthuis
My name is Parker, my pronouns are they/them, I am the center and one of the linebackers for the Raptors. This is my first year playing football, but I was always a four sport athlete all through high school. I wrestled for many years and those experiences definitely translate into football. In my free time you can find me putting in extra work, I’m always trying to become a better player and person. I also do stage crew for some local artists, so I’m never not busy! I haven’t lived in Cedar Rapids for very long, so it’s just me and my cat, Sprout, but I’m liking the area and the people so far! I’m looking forward to stepping on the field as #1 this season, excited to grow and learn with this brand new team!
#2
Lizzy Stark
Liz is a welder from Pittsburg who lives with her dog, Maverick, in a converted warehouse. She always aspired to become a semi professional football player, but had no formal training and works as a nightly cabaret performer at Mawby's, a neighborhood bar and grill. Lacking family, Liz bonded with her coworkers at Mawby's, some of whom also aspired to greater artistic achievements. One night, Liz caught the eye of customer Bridget Karsten the owner of the steel mill where she works. After learning that Liz is one of her employees, Bridget pursues her on the job, though Liz turns down her advances. Liz was also approached by Que who wanted her to play on his nearby team. So she went and tackled her way right into the hearts of the most prestigious women's football league owners.
#3
Kim Ellis
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#5
Anique Adams
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#6
Hope Rumpf
Hi my name is Hope Rumpf. I have played many sports in my lifetime. I have played basketball and softball. I loved playing sports and being apart of a team and when I no longer played sports I definitely missed being apart of a team. I am excited to learn a new sport as an athlete and become part of a team again. LET’S GO RAPTORS!!!
#8
Ramerra Lacey
This is my second year being able to enjoy, learn, and fulfill a dream playing tackle football. In school I was involved in basketball, dance, a little volleyball, and track. Since middle school football was a sport I wanted to learn to play outside of flag football for fun. Fear of being the only female and talking myself out of playing prevented this, until last year. Thanks to my friend Janessa, the opportunity presented itself and I took it readily, giving my best in many positions. This year I look forward to new challenges, improving as a player, new connections with my Cedar Raptors, hopefully inspiring others that it is never too late to go after a dream, and the reactions after I tell people I play tackle football. Outside of football, I’m a snake mama to my girl Banana, I enjoy working out, spending time with loved ones, listening to music (karaoke jam sessions), doing something for self-development, traveling, dancing, or etc. I’m looking forward to this season and all that it may bring.
Let’s go RAPTORS
#12
Whitney Schrader
Pronouns: she/her
This is my first year of tackle football, however I have played flag football in a rec league for two years. I played just about every sport available growing up but chose to play golf in college at South Dakota State University. Outside of sports I work at Transamerica as a Financial Processing Supervisor. I have two dogs and a bearded dragon with my partner Alex. I enjoy working out, playing video games, and spending time with my family. I learned all my celebration dances from my two nephews.
#14
Renesa Smith-Taylor
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#15
Lucket Kiche
Pronouns: he/they
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Lucket is a teacher and a weightlifter. He spends most of his time singing in the car and listening to Beyoncé. He loves spending time with his family Iry(Partner), Peter and Rowan (kiddos), dog Frappuccino and cats Avocado and Toast. This Lucket’s first time playing football.
#16
Kaila Tiedeman
Hey!! My name is Kaila and like most of my teammates here I don't have much for football experience but cant wait to be able to put on a show for eastern Iowa! I grew up here in Cedar Rapids and was a varsity bowler at my local high school. My family and I still live in Cedar Rapids where I work full-time selling cars at Dave Wright and work at the Fire department as a Fire/EMT! I am so beyond excited to add another thing to my plate as playing football has always been a dream of mine. See you on the field.
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All love -#16
#17
Dianna Kosobucki
Pronouns: she/her
​
My name is Dianna Kosobucki. I did not play football in school, but did play flag football when I was younger and with friends. I have always wanted to play though and am excited to have this opportunity! In school I did play softball, volleyball, basketball, and golf. Outside of football I am a School Counselor working with 7th-12th graders. I enjoying hiking, playing/watching sports, gaming, reading, listening to true crime podcast, and hanging with my family. My family consists of my wife (Melody), two dogs (Charlie and Anders), and a cat (Delilah). I’m ready to get this season started and have a fun time with great teammates!
#20
Tamra Williams
My name is Tamra. This is my first time playing football and I decided to try it because my youngest son (17) said I shouldn't do it. I also participate in a bowling league, hold a green belt in Tae Kwon Do, and regularly do kickboxing. Outside of football I enjoy a wide range of activities such as reading mystery novels, attending comedy shows and plays, taking painting classes, eating, and judging others for not using oxford commas. I have 3 cats, 3 dogs, and 3 kids. After losing my oldest child (son) in Sept 2022 I have become an advocate for Suicide Awareness and Prevention, Mental Health Awareness, and Addiction Awareness. You will see me sporting the number 20 in memory of him and his eternal age.
#21
Janessa Carr
My name is Janessa Carr. I could not be more excited about the opportunity to play football and learn more about this game. Being apart of a team, making new friends, taking on a challenge, and getting the chance to do something that provides a positive and healthy outlet is something I’m really looking forward to. I am incredibly blessed by my wife & children. They make everyday worth it and are my pride & joy. I have worked in the field of Education for the past 11 years. I am passionate about building bridges and creating systems that provide equitable outcomes for all students & families. I am so excited for our inaugural season. GO RAPTORS!!!!
#22
Cheyanne Kurth
Cheyanne “Chey Boi” Kurth: a ninja warrior, mixologist, drag king, professional dancer, thespian, influencer, personal trainer, hype man and 2nd year football player. Fueled by espresso and adrenaline Cheyanne is always go go go. Entering her second year after coming off a killer rookie year she is FIRED up for this season. Her goal this year is to make All-American for the second year in a row along with making it to the playoff game! Let’s go Raptors!
#25
Melissa Stockwell-Gregson
Pronouns: she/her
I am a native Californian, moved around the country a few times and have recently become a captive of Iowa. I have lived my life in athletics, playing multiple sports growing up. Softball became my passion and I was able to play collegiate softball at the University of Houston from 08-12. I continue to play slow-pitch softball with the LGBTQ+ softball community in Iowa city, but am excited to transition from hitting bombs to throwing bombs. I can’t wait to take on this new challenge, learning and playing football as a Player! (And not just as a yelling spectator!) Outside of football ….. I love spending quality time with my wife, Sarah, and our pup Raylie. I am an executive assistant at the UI Center for Advancement. I love taking epic road trips, throwing red shells in Mario cart, and playing just about any card game! I am fond of a fine aged smooth bourbon. Oh, and My friends like to call me “the funny friend”.
#26
Torianne Ausmus
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#27
Bridget Karsten
Pronouns: She/Her
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I've been playing sports all my life from lacrosse to rowing to sand volleyball, but the last 4 years I've played tackle football and loved every moment. When I'm done getting my aggression out in football, I love hanging out with my fiancé (Que), kids (Serenity, Emmah, and Quianah), and dogs (Nyla and Bud), playing games, DnD, reading, puzzling, and picking up new talents.
#28
Alyssa Noble
Pronouns: She/Her
I am a first-year football player but a lifelong football fan. Growing up in Southeastern Iowa, I have always rooted for the Hawkeyes, especially for football, women’s basketball, and softball. I work at the University of Iowa as a Research Coordinator specializing in gynecologic cancers. Golf has been a big part of my life for a long time. I played for the women’s golf team at Wartburg College, and now I am in charge of education for the Brown Deer Women’s Golf League in Coralville. Since leaving college, I have challenged myself to do things I have never done before. This has led me to be a Vermont state champion sled hockey player, a slow-pitch softball coach, and now a tackle football player. I was the most nervous to try tackle football, but with encouragement from my friends and my very supportive fiancé, I decided to try it, and I am glad I did. Football has made me feel stronger than ever.
#35
Laura Kainz
Pronouns: She/Her
My name is Laura. I’ve never played organized football but have always wanted to. As a youth, I tried lots of different sports; my favorites were soccer and softball. I still play softball now as an adult, but my heart and soul are at the dojang where I am both a co-owner and a second degree black belt in Taekwondo. Outside of sports, I am finishing a degree in education so I can continue my work in special education with high school students. I am married, and we have two adorable pugs and a feisty kitty. When I’m not doing homework or at practice, I enjoy reading World War II historical fiction, listening to true crime podcasts, and spending time with my many cousins.
#44
Rachel Daily
Pronouns: she/her
As a kid, I dreamed of becoming the next Mia Hamm, owning a pet dinosaur, and playing football. Looks like only one of those came true. I played soccer and softball growing up, but knew I was destined for football the day I got my first Dan Marino jersey at 5 years old. I’m a born and raised Cedar Rapidian, so I’m excited to start my dream repping my home town. When I'm not on the football field or working as a Financial Wellness Manager helping people better their credit, catch me on a mountain somewhere with my pup checking off another national park from my bucket list or playing softball for the LGBTQ+ LSA softball league in Iowa City.
#51
Aime Warack
Pronouns: she/her
My name is Aime Warack. This is my first year playing tackle football. I am a lineman. I have played many sports over the years including multiple years of flag football. I am the General Manager at Old Neighborhood Pub in Cedar Rapids. When I'm not working or playing football I like to spend time with my 4 year old son Camber, my partner Jake and my brother Ryan. I can't wait to see all the amazing things this team can accomplish this season! RAPTOR RAGE!
#52
Makayla Meier
Pronouns: she/her
My name is Makayla, I am so excited to play for the Cedar Raptors this season! I was born and raised here in Eastern Iowa. I have tried/played about every sport you can think of, from boxing lessons to riding horses. My current sports are golf (occasionally) and football. You can find me either at the gym, or out on the family farm helping my dad work cattle or driving a tractor. I also love working on house projects, photography, and finding some sort of adventure with my amazing husband. Fun fact about me: I love the Green Bay Packers and actually picked #52 because of the Claymaker himself: Clay Matthews
#55
Chanelle Thomas
Pronouns: she/her
I have a passion for fashion and smashing things. I run out on the field like I've been here before. I was 14 years old doing drills wondering how to adapt to that. I'm the only girl, and they all dudes, but I held my own knowing I was made to stand alone.
I'm an educator during the week, and a Raptor in my spare time. When you see 5-5 running up, you better head toward the sidelines.
I'm a native of Kansas City I been a fan of the Chiefs. Football has been my game since Arrowhead was an unknown timepiece. As a youngin I spent time on the diamonds cause I was told diamonds are a girl's best friend. But, it turns out, I can't leave the gridiron gang.
The people gon know my name. 5-5 is coming thru yo lane!
#62
Ariel Spitzner
Pronouns: she/her
My name is Ariel, I’ve always wanted to play organized football but never got the chance to till now. Growing up I played softball, track and field, basketball and volleyball. In college I was a student athlete. I studied Criminal justice and I was a thrower in track& field. I still play softball now as an adult and now I can add playing football. When I’m not playing sports I’m a correctional office/ detention officer at a county jail. I married my wife in 2020 and we have 1 dog. When I’m not working, I’m reading books, fixing something, building something and hunting or fishing.
#72
Shelby Hook
My name is Shelby. I played basketball and volleyball in school but I have always had a love for football. Although I didn’t get the chance to play growing up, that is a huge reason why I’m excited for the opportunity to play now. I currently work for a luxury fireplace company and a school part time. My Fiancée and I have 4 fur babies at home that we love spending time with along with hanging out with friends and family and going to hockey games on the weekends. I’m excited to play on this team and I am blessed to have a huge support system in my friends and family!
#83
Sam Szlembarski
I’ve played flag football while in service. Token girl playing football during recess in school. I was a self defense trainer in the Army. Trained in Brazilian Jistsu and Krav Mega. I play softball on the Iowa City LGBTQIA+ softball league since 2018. Former CrossFit instructor. Played Soccer in college. Ran in cross country/track and field throughout high school. Golf and road bike enthusiast! My other activities include Iowa City Pride Board Officer, have a love for advocacy and allowing folx to have a space to be their true self! Proud fur mom to two beautiful labs. Loving raising my pups with my partner, Sara! Second oldest of five girls. I work as a social worker at the VA. I’ve always enjoyed aggressive/contact sports, being able pushing myself. I also love being the “hype” person! I enjoy team sports. While in the Army I was a Human Intelligence Collector. I’ve carried my analytical skills in all parts of my life. I enjoy assessing and identifying patterns in human behavior. I believe this skill will be resourceful in football. I’m always trying to learn about the world around me, how I can help make it better.
#90
Morgan Turner
Pronouns: she/her
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My name is Morgan and I am a newbie to playing football. I am a Steelers fan and love to spend the weekends cheering them and the Michigan Wolverines on.
I have been involved in several sports but softball was always my favorite. I spent years and years playing and played both pitcher (for most of my softball career) and catcher (before it was against the rules to cover the plate and body check the runners.) At one point in time I was even a competitive bodybuilder.
I spent 8 years in the military and I miss the camaraderie that came with it that I’m sure I’ll find here with the Cedar Raptors.
Outside of sports I have a bachelor’s degree in education, and a master’s degree in healthcare administration. I am a strong advocate for those living with dementia and advocate to rid the stigma associated with mental health and suicide prevention. I love music and have been active in theatre, choirs (mezzo-soprano), and orchestra (cello) most of my life. I am married and have an 11 year old, a 9 year old, and a 1 year old who give me a reason to live my best life each and every day.
I can’t wait to see what this Cedar Raptor journey brings and can’t wait to see everyone on the field! Go Raptors!!
Photo Credit: Doug Dyrland