From the Sidelines

Interlake coach Jason Rimkus says he’s not dwelling on the fact that his Saints are in the postseason with a 1-8 record.

“We could dwell all day on what our record is, but the fact of the matter is that it does not good for us to do that,” said Rimkus, who is in his first year. “Just to have the opportunity feels great.”

The Saints clinched a playoff spot Friday night when Renton lost to Hazen. Because of Interlake’s victory over Sammamish earlier this season, the Saints will host North Mason (4-5) tomorrow night at 7 p.m. in the West Central District play-in game. Tomorrow’s winner will travel to take on Clover Park on Saturday.

“I can tell you our kids are excited,” Rimkus said. “Regardless of how we got there, we’re here. And you can’t be any more prepared for a playoff game than by playing in our conference.”

Of Interlake’s eight losses, three have come at the hands of ranked 3A teams in No.1 Bellevue, No.5 Juanita and No.8 Liberty. Another loss came to Newport, which qualified for the round of 32 in 4A. The Saints were also without starting quarterback Matt Malos and starting tailback Jordan Todd in several early-season losses.

Now all that stands between the Saints and state berth is North Mason, which plays in the 2A Olympic League. The Bulldogs boast a triple-option offense, much like what Newport plays. The Knights beat Interlake 70-14.

“I talked to our outside linebackers about redemption,” said Rimkus, referencing the Saints struggles against the offense.

Rimkus said the players are excited and feeling confident after a good practice this weekend. He also said he feels the team is playing much better the last two weeks in losses to Liberty and Juanita.

“We’ve talked about a new life and a new season,” Rimkus said. “We’re playing our best football at the best time of the year.”