Crimson Tide Pop Warner President Brian Dimond said that the popular youth football and cheerleading organization could possibly begin signups and practices on August 1, which has been the traditional kickoff date.
Dimond, who is a member of the Eastern Mass. Board of Directors, said he is awaiting information from the national Pop Warner organization about the guidelines for the 2020 season in respect to COVID-19.
Dimond has been in contact with city officials about the availability of local parks for practices. The league has used Sacramone Park in recent seasons, although Seven Acres Park, a new football facility in the city, could also be a potential home for practices.
“We’re all hoping to start August 1, but nothing is etched in stone,” said Dimond. “National Pop Warner hasn’t given their 100 percent blessing yet. But I know we’re about 90 percent guaranteed that there’s going to be a season.”
Dimond, 49, who is beginning his 20th season as president (29 years overall in Pop Warner) expects more than 300 boys and girls to participate on the five football and six cheerleading teams this season.
Everett’s Pop Warner organization has been a shining example for programs throughout New England. With great coaches through the decades such as Chucky Leo (he remains as director of football), George Paone, and Peter Forte and many others, Everett’s Pop Warner football teams are well-respected throughout the region. Pop Warner graduates have gone to excel for the vaunted Everett High football program, including the respective sons of Coaches Leo, Paone, and Forte.
The Crimson Tide Pop Warner cheerleading program, which Dimond now directs, has produced several regional and national championships.
The Crimson Tide football and cheerleading teams were slated to unveil brand new uniforms this season, but the funding of the changeover could be a challenge in these pressing financial times.
Dimond has many long-time Pop Warner officers in his administration, including Mike and Jeanne Vitukevich, Lisa Sylvester, and George Castiello, who have all contributed to the organization’s ongoing success story. Colleen Leo is also on board the Crimson Tide express.
Dimond takes pride in the organization’s blue-chip status. “I think we’re one of the top organizations – everyone seems to know us, everyone seems to get pumped up to play us, and we always seem to have winning seasons.”
Dimond said the tentative date for the first game of the season is Sept. 6.