The Ceres Jr. Bulldogs Youth Football & Cheer Organization enjoyed its most successful year to date in 2019.

Four of Ceres’ five football teams advanced to American Youth Football Super Bowls.

“We had a great season,” President Joe Estrada said. 

Ceres might not have a season this fall out of public safety concerns related to the coronavirus.

“It’s not looking good,” Estrada said. “They just canceled baseball and soccer. This COVID is no joke. People are passing away. We’re taking it really serious.”

“There’s a possibility we might not have a season,” he added. “We’re just waiting to see what the CIF (California Interscholastic Federation) and school district decide. Whatever they tell us, we will follow. We don’t cut corners.”

A total of 80 football players signed up via online registration for the Jr. Bulldogs’ 2020 campaign.

Each player would be required to have a guardian sign a COVID-19 waiver to participate.

“If we get the greenlight, we’ll be ready to go,” Estrada said. “We’ll do more advertising and recruiting. The only thing we need to buy are more jerseys. If the season does get canceled, we’ll give 100 percent refunds back to the parents. Football is a great sport. Our health is more important.”

The 2020 season has a start date of Aug. 3.

The Jr. Bulldogs changed leagues to cut driving time for parents/guardians.

Ceres moved from the AYF to Central Valley Youth Football & Cheer.

The league features nine teams, including the Jr. Bulldogs, Modesto Raiders, Manteca Cowboys, Manteca Timberwolves, Lathrop Jr. Spartans, Lodi Jr. Flames, Lodi Titans and Galt Warriors.

“I’m crossing my fingers and praying we have a season,” Estrada said.