by Sylene Argent Though it is difficult to predict the future, especially when enduring a pandemic such as the Coronavirus – and with may sports leagues, businesses, and restaurants suspending activity – the Essex Ravens Football Club is optimistic about a spring start-up for its 2020 season. On Saturday afternoon, decision-makers with the Ontario Provincial Football League (OPFL) held a teleconference to discuss the upcoming season. Essex Ravens Varsity Football Coach, Glen Mills, in reaction to the discussion had Saturday, said, “We’re still in pretty good shape to start the season if things are opened up by May 1st.” If the pandemic is over at that point, Mills said the OPFL may be able to start the season on time, or perhaps a week or so later. Or, there is a possibility that this year’s football season may be shortened, which would at least get the players on the field at some point. The OPFL will continue to monitor the situation, according to a message President, Terry Barkley, posted on the league’s website in mid-March. The Essex Ravens began training for the 2020 season back in December, but that was put on hold in mid-March. In the meantime, the local football club is hosting its schooling sessions, but online. Here, the players are watching videos and participating in video conferencing. “We’re still getting a lot done,” Mills said. Mills is excited for the upcoming football season, and noted the Varsity, Junior Varsity, and Bantam teams should be fierce competitors. He said last year’s Bantam team was young, but still had a good season. He is excited to see those players show off what they have been able to learn when they do get to return to the field.