OVFL: Essex Ravens 2012 previews – Varsity, Junior Varsity, Bantam

2012 Varsity preview

After a disappointing end to our 2011 season we decided that we need to work even harder to get the OVFL championship trophy back in Essex. With many players returning and a solid group of Jr Varsity players moving up we believe we have a great opportunity to win an OVFL championship in 2012.

We will look to many veterans to lead the Varsity squad in 2012. On the Offense we will rely heavily on Dan Benson, Travis Duroucher, Mike Mallender, Nick Vincent, Dal-las Boow, Casey Grossett & Chris Slikboer. On Defense we will rely on Austin Crumb, Jordan Daneau, Dalton Laino, Frank Renaud & Ahmed Elfeky. Some young guys mov-ing up to Varsity to keep your eye on will be Eli Fera, Carson Ouelletter, Robert Herzog, Adam Slikboer, Matt Mancina & Mike Dorsey. The entire staff is very excited about this years team. Our potential is endless if we are willing to put the work in. I am confident the Varsity Ravens will represent the Win-dsor and Essex County area with class and sportsmanship both off and on the field. Look forward to see everyone at our home opener.

2012 Junior Varsity preview

With a large number of returning players and a tremendous group of bantam players moving up the 2012 season looks to be very ex-citing. That being said the expectations are very high as well. Anything less than a championship appearance would be disappointing. With the off season well under way the kids look to hungry to make the next step in quest of capturing their first Jr Varsity Champion-ship. A large nucleus of JV players have been in the gym since December 1st going through and extensive off season program which includes core training, Plyometrics, Flex ability and speed and agility training. Some players to keep and eye on this season include Desjardins, Marcus Kentner, Khaliel James, Anthony Dagati, Sean Brannagan, Nick Tessolin, Jalen Jackson, Rick Van Espen and Johnny Middleton. There are many more players that should make this season very exciting. This will be the Year of the Ravens. Look Out

2012 Bantam preview

The 2011 season started with a bang after knocking off perennial powerhouse Cambridge the Bantam Ravens took a step back losing to arch rivals Mississauga as well as Brampton. The kids regrouped and won the remaining five games to end the regular season with a 6 & 2 record and secured second place in their divi-sion. The Ravens faced Steel city ironmen in the quarter finals and continued their domi-nance with a convincing 28 to 0 win. With that win it set up a rematch against the Cambridge Lions. This game was a very exciting contest but the Lions sealed the game with a late touchdown and went to win 21 to 7. With the 2012 season quickly approaching the Bantam Ravens looked to again be very strong con-tenders for the OVFL championship. With over 50 players taking part in our off season program it is very apparent that they have some unfinished business to tend to. The Ra-vens will look to lean on the leadership of re-turning veterans Kaine Stevenson, CJ Church, Kris Brown, Brandon Speller Zach Herzog and David Gemus. I know Coach Chantler is hot on the recruiting trail and will bring in the top talent to showcase the Essex County Area.

Ravens Banquet Saturday February 18th, 2012 Teutonia Club. ( Suit and Tie Attire)
Special Guests: Former Raven standouts Kyle Quinlan ( Vanier Cup MVP) and Brad Fochesato.
Key Note Speaker: 2011 OUA Coach of the Year: Joe D’Amore ( Windsor Lancers)
Watch Ravens Website for Registration dates: Jan 31st/2012 and Feb 1st/2012 6pm to 9pm ( Clubhouse)