Nothing but questions for football season

By Staff, 06/29/20 10:24 AM

PRESCOTT – At the end of the 2019 football season, where the Wolves made it to the semifinals of the AAA playoffs again, all indications were for Prescott to be a force to be reckoned with in 2020.

First off, the Wolves only lost about six seniors. Most of the starters were juniors and sophomores. The main core of the team would be returning. The team changed head coaches, with Tommy Poole stepping down to be the full-time principal for Prescott High School. Brian Glass, the offensive coordinator, stepped in as the new head coach. This provided continuity as the Wolves wouldn’t be changing any offensive of defensive schemes or implementing a new system. The team’s future looked bright.

At least until February when schools closed because of COVID-19. Initially, it was thought school would reopen, but the situation grew worse and there was no school the rest of the year. Now, as districts work to get ready to start the 2020-21 school year, there is much uncertainty as to how it will be done. This includes extracurricular activities such as football.

Glass said everything is up in the air as of right now, but things could change. The Arkansas Activities Association, he added, has said nothing as to the start of football season. Teams received two dead weeks so players could have some time off from practice, or modified practices. Glass said he’s given the team this week off.

But, as to the season itself, he said a lot will depend on the infection rate and how the numbers stand. “As of now, I’m concerned they’ll mess with the season. I hope not. We’ve got as good a team as we can put out, but it all depends on the numbers. It’s a safety issue.”

Glass said how districts open the school year will be a big determinate on football season. If schools open in the traditional manner, there should be a season. If a blended schedule is used, it may not affect the season either, but if districts have to primarily go to a digital format, there may not be a season. “Right now it’s 50-50 if we’ll have a season. We’re in uncharted waters.”

If there is a season, regulations will likely be put in place on how many fans can attend the games and be in the stands.