Question: Where is Caden Rainey going to line up on the football field for Union/A-C Valley this year?

Answer: Everywhere.

Not at the same time, of course. It only seems that way.

The 5-foot-8, 170-pound senior is targeting the program record for most pass receptions in a season. Cole Morris holds that mark with 45.

“I'm going after it,” Rainey said.

The only obstacle in his way might be his own versatility.

“Caden is so valuable to us because we can put him at any skilled position,” Falcon Knights coach Brad Dittman said. “And he may play every one this year.”

The Falcon Knights are coming off a 5-2 season, their losses by a combined total of five points. The latter defeat was a 12-10 decision to Smethport in the first round of the District 9 Class A playoffs.

Rainey caught 24 passes for 285 yards and two touchdowns last season. He carried the ball 27 times for 178 yards and two scores. He did not see time at quarterback, but with 2020 starter Tanner Merwin graduated, that may change this season.

“We've got a competition going at that position,” Dittman said. “I'm sure we'll have a package in for him.”

Rainey doesn't mind. He rarely comes off the field, actually.

“Maybe on the kickoff team,” he said, with a wry smile. “I'll get a break from time to time.

“I love being on the field. I want to contribute to this team any way I can.”

Rainey averaged 19.2 yards on 10 punt returns last season. He returned two of those for touchdowns.

As a cornerback on defense, he intercepted four passes, returning one of those for a score.

“Caden is one of those guys, when the ball's in his hands, he's capable of scoring,” Dittman said. “He's elusive.”

He's tireless, too.

He makes sure of it.

“I work hard on my conditioning,” Rainey said. “I'm used to this. I've been on the field since my freshman year.

“Offensively, we have four or five weapons who will be out there at the same time. That may free up more room for me. If defenses decide to key on me, we have other guys who will hurt them.

“Either way, I feel like I'll be making an impact,” Rainey added.

He'll have plenty of opportunities to make big plays behind a veteran offensive line.

“Our line is awesome,” Rainey said. “Those guys open up a lot of room.”

Rainey returns to the Falcon Knights as the 2020 District 9 Small School Offensive Player of the Year.

“Well-deserved,” Dittman said. “His numbers don't jump off the charts. He's a game-changer, simple as that. People in our league know that.”

Defensively, Rainey may see time at safety as well as corner. He may return more kickoffs as well, having returned only two last season.

“Whatever they want me to do,” Rainey said. “I want to take more of a leadership role this season and that means being a team player.”