The Berne Union Rockets kicked off their 2025 football season in impressive fashion Friday night, earning a 34-14 home victory over Bidwell River Valley.

After a slow start in the opening quarter, the Rockets’ offense came alive behind the playmaking of sophomore quarterback Carson Kiger. Kiger finished the night 7-of-15 passing for 184 yards and four touchdowns, while also rushing for 80 yards.

The first spark came midway through the second quarter when Kiger connected with Ashton O’Rourke on a 21-yard touchdown strike to put Berne Union on the board. Just minutes later, Kiger found Dillan Cornell streaking downfield for a 75-yard touchdown reception, giving the Rockets a 14-0 lead heading into halftime.

River Valley answered early in the third quarter with a 30-yard touchdown run, but Berne Union quickly responded. Kiger delivered a 38-yard touchdown pass to James Hocking, pushing the lead back to two scores. Kiger and Hocking hooked up again in the fourth quarter on a 10-yard touchdown pass to extend the advantage.

Cornell sealed the win late in the game with a defensive highlight, intercepting a Raider pass and returning it for a touchdown to cap off the 34-14 victory.

With the season-opening win, Berne Union moves to 1-0 and will face a tough challenge next week on the road against Trimble.