Hoops Review 2023-24 by Bangor Daily News

Review 2023-2024

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2 • 2023-2024 COUNTY HOOP REVIEW • DECEMBER 20, 2023

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ASHLAND BOYS • HORNETS Hornets look to hit stride in upcoming season By Paul Bagnall Staff Writer

ASHLAND — Head Coach Lizz Theriault is looking forward to the Ashland boys varsity basketball team working together to gain more wins and prove they are on the comeback. It will be Theriault’s second year coaching the Hornet boys varsity basketball team as hopes are high to make it to Bangor this year. “When I am coaching, I love teaching what I have learned over the years,” Theriault said. “When a player is working hard and ﬁnally gets a new skill down and then they use that skill in a game it brightens our day.” Theriault loved playing high school sports and learning the new aspects of the sports she played. She gained a different family each season and loves teaching what she has learned over the years. The Hornets lost four team members from last year, with three graduating high school and one

Staff Photo Paul Bagnall

Members of the 2023-2024 Ashland boys varsity basketball team are, front from left, Cole Soucy, Blake Vincent and Andrew Dotson; middle, Kaleb Dotson, Carter Craig, Gavin Blair, Adam Wentworth and Ryder Caron; and back, Head Coach Lizz Theriault, Dawson Jandreau, Jacob Landeen, Grant Thomas, Inyas Janoch, Manager Mason Pierce and Assistant Coach Bill Harris. who moved away. With those losses, Ashland now has fewer solid shooters and ball handlers. What Ashland does

have, however, is great senior leadership and a vast number of underclassmen looking to show what they can do to con-

tribute to the team. The Hornet boys are willing to leave everything on the ﬂoor to get the job done. The returning Hornets

are seniors Blake Vincent, Andrew Dotson, and Inyas Janoch, with juniors Cole Eastman and Grant Thomas. Sopho-

mores Dawson Jandreau, Carter Craig, and newcomer Kaleb Dotson will return to Ashland with freshmen Jacob Landeen,

Gavin Blair, Cole Soucy, Adam Wentworth, and Hayden Maker for the 2023-2024 season. “I am looking forward to coaching these young men again,” Theriault said. “We have a bigger number of boys this year as well which will beneﬁt us.” Last year, Ashland was just starting to hit its stride as the season was ending. In the 2022-2023 regular season, the squad had a record of 5-13 in Class D North, but qualiﬁed for the tournament. The Hornets lost in the preliminary round. “They want to win so badly and prove that our boys program is making a comeback,” Theriault said. “They have so much potential that just needs to be unleashed.” Theriault wants the Hornet boys to improve their knowledge of the game and grow as a team. She hopes to improve on their press and fast breaks with some of her fast players because the Ashland Hornets are fast, tall, and have quick hands.

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CARIBOU GIRLS • VIKINGS Viking girls work with their strengths to improve By By Paul Bagnall Staff Writer

CARIBOU — The Caribou girls varsity basketball team will look for opportunities to improve its game in the new Class B basketball season. The Viking girls lost three starters from last year’s team, but return a strong core group. There will be some tough competition in the Class B season, but Caribou hopes to improve upon last season’s successes. “I feel fortunate to have had great experiences and coaches who have had a positive impact on my life,” said Head Coach Kayla Brown. “I enjoy being around the girls and the game of basketball, and I hope to have a positive impact on their lives.” It will be Brown’s seventh year coaching the Caribou girls team. Last year, the Viking girls had a regular season record of 15-3, which earned the team the No. 2 seed in Class B North. The Vikings had a first-round bye and then went on to beat No. 7 Foxcroft Academy, 68-39 in the quarterfinals. Caribou lost in the semifinal to No.

Contributed Photo

Members of the Caribou girls varsity basketball team are, front from left, Gracie Rossignol, Brynne Hamilton, Madelynn Deprey, Ainsley Caron, Liv Adams, and Lily McCrossin; and back are, Meagan Martin, Madelyn Morrow, Kayden Guerrett, Phoebe Solomon, Joslyn Griffeth, Brianna Levesque, and Amelia Godin. 3 Ellsworth, 71-51. The Eagles of Ellsworth went on to win the state championship. It marked the ﬁrst time

the Viking girls basketball and the Vikings are ready to team made it to the semi- begin anew. ﬁnals since 2004, Brown “We lost a fair percentage said. But that was last year, of our scoring, and I hope

we will have other players step up to help us have a well-rounded offensive approach,” Brown said. “We

have room for improvement in several areas, on both sides of the ball.” Key losses from graduation for the Viking girls were Selena Savage, who was the team’s second-leading scorer, and third-leading scorer Carly Morrow. The returning members for the 2023-2024 Caribou Viking girls will be seniors Phoebe Solomon and Madelyn Morrow, who both will contribute good minutes this season. The juniors are Madelynn Deprey, Ainsley Caron, Brianna Levesque, Amelia Godin, and Joslyn Griffeth. Sophomores are Liv Adams, Brynne Hamilton, Kayden Guerrette, Meagan Martin, and Gracie Rossignol. Caribou’s only freshman will be Lily McCrossin. Deprey was named the Big East Player of the Year last season and averaged 22 points with seven rebounds per game. All ﬁrst-year varsity players will also play some junior varsity, the coach said. Two of the Caribou girls varsity basketball team’s strengths will be athleticism and quickness on the court, according to the coach.

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CARIBOU BOYS • VIKINGS Viking boys to rely on gritty defense for success By Kevin Sjoberg

Special to The County

CARIBOU — This season will be a challenge for Caribou boys basketball coach Kyle Corrigan, but it is one he is more than up for. Corrigan has to replace five players who graduated that were regulars in the rotation for a Viking team that finished 11-7 and lost to eventual state champion Orono in the Class B quarterfinals. Avery Thibodeau, Henry Hebert, Liam Dee, Reece Cavagnaro and Wesley LaPointe were all key contributors to that squad, but Caribou has reloaded and is expected to be one of the top teams in the Big East Conference that is capable of making a deep playoff run. Corrigan brings back four players who played consistent varsity minutes a year ago, so the others benefitted from their experience during preseason tournament games against defending Class A state champion Brewer and Class C North Yarmouth Academy. “The weekend was good

Staff Photo Paul Bagnall

Members of the 2023-2024 Caribou High School boys varsity basketball team are, front from left, Manager Parker Adams, Andrew Cummings, Kaymen Sargent, Dakota Trombley, Dawson St. Pierre, Sam Hebert, and Brayden Brescia; and back, Kyle Corrigan, Alex Bouchard, Tristan Robbins, Owen Corrigan, Dylan Bouchard, Colby Ouellette, Max Morrow, Landen Belanger, Manager Caleb Kuklak, and Ben Rosser. to just kind of work out the early season jitters for some of our guys,” said the sixthyear coach, whose team won both contests. “We just wanted to defend hard for 32 minutes in both games and just have fun with it.” Caribou will most likely go with a starting lineup made up of senior

Dylan Bouchard, juniors Tristan Robbins and Kaymen Sargent and sophomores Landen Belanger and Owen Corrigan. Bouchard, Robbins and Sargent were regulars last year along with senior Sam Hebert, who will be one of the ﬁrst players off the bench.Bouchard is the

captain and team leader who can hit shots from the outside and “do all the little things that coaches love,” according to coach Corrigan. Robbins is one of the team’s tallest players but possesses guard-like abilities, making him a difﬁcult matchup. He’s

an outstanding passer and has worked hard on improving his perimeter game. Sargent is referred to by Corrigan as “one of the most dedicated players we’ve ever coached.” He can handle the ball, score and defend well. The other two starters were on last year’s ros-

ter, but saw limited time. Belanger has length that makes him a disruptive force and is also an excellent outside shooter, while Corrigan, the coach’s nephew, is a steady guard and possesses great court vision and anticipation and thrives in setting up his teammates. Hebert is a defensive

specialist who will spark the Vikes in a reserve role. Brayden Brescia, a junior, is a smart player who is capable of leading the team in scoring off the bench thanks to his offensive skill set. Juniors Dawson St. Pierre and Andrew Cummings, sophomores Colby Ouellette and Dakota Trombley and freshman Max Morrow will look to garner playing time as the season progresses. Parker Adams and Kaleb Kuklak are the managers. Assistant coaches are Ben Rosser, Alex Bouchard, Parker Deprey and Dustin Damboise, who also serves as the JV coach. Corrigan said the defense displayed during the preseason tourney has continued during practice sessions and could be one of the strengths of this year’s squad. “It’s their willingness to buy into not just playing defense but playing extremely hard on defense,” Corrigan said. “We’re not huge, but we’re quick and athletic and our kids have really impressed with their ability to defend the basketball.”

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CAHS GIRLS • PANTHERS Long-time JV coach takes over CA girls program By Kevin Sjoberg

Special to The County

MARS HILL — Carl Mullen spent nearly a decade as the boys junior varsity basketball coach at Central Aroostook, but is now looking forward to leading his own varsity program. He did not have to go far, as Mullen remains at CAHS, taking the reins of the Panther varsity girls squad. The Panthers have a solid reputation in the sport, as evidenced by their Class C state championship in 2020. Now, they will compete in the Class D ranks and Mullen is anxious to see how things unfold. Central Aroostook has a roster consisting of only 10 players, but Mullen likes its makeup. “I’m so impressed with this group and how determined they are,” he said. “They are a competitive group and are supportive of each other.” Seniors makeup half of the roster and Mullen said the leadership they provide has been evident in the early going. “They will keep the girls together, motivated and will provide the competition in practice to keep the underclassmen improving so when they are called on, they are comfortable and ready to do their best,” he said. Three of the seniors are slated to start, including Abby Haines,

Staff Photo Paul Bagnall

Members of the 2023-2024 Central Aroostook High School girls varsity basketball team are, front from left, Stevi Pierce, Maggie Mahan, Lilly Burtt and Charlie Pierce; and back, Coach Carl Mullen, Kassidy Blackstone, Ira Fletcher, Skylynn Tilley, Rylee Pierce, Harleigh Allen and Abby Haines. Rylee Pierce and Ira Fletcher. Haines has been a 3-point threat throughout her career, but Mullen said she is much more than that. “She honestly does everything,” Mullen said. “She is a combo

guard who easily ﬁnds herself ﬁghting for rebounds, and she’s at her very best when she’s looking to get others involved.” Pierce will take on the primary inside role left vacant following

the loss of four-year starter Kira Fitzherbert. “She is a hard-working, tough post player and defense is the strongest part of her game,” Mullen said. “She’s ready for the op-

portunity to become more of a scorer and the girls know they can depend on her.” Fletcher is gaining conﬁdence every day, according to Mullen, and provides great energy. She will be counted on to provide good defense and rebounding. Rounding out the starting group are sophomore Harleigh Allen and freshman Lilly Burtt. Allen can contribute in a variety of ways. The coach said Allen has spent a lot of time during the offseason honing her skills and feels she is ready to play a larger role with her ability to score and defend. Burtt saw minutes on the varsity as an eighth-grader and her role will increase as her conﬁdence does. Seniors Kassidy Blackstone and Skylynn Tilley will be key players off the bench, while sophomore Maggie Mahan and freshmen Stevi Pierce and Charlie Pierce will also look to carve out roles. Defense will be the priority for Mullen’s squad heading into the season. “We have some work to do on the offense and getting better in transition, but to have the opportunity to play in transition means we have to do a lot of things right and cause some turnovers and missed shots,” he said. “We just want to put ourselves in the best possible position to make a run during tournament week.”

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CAHS BOYS • PANTHERS Freshmen to play key role for Panther boys By Kevin Sjoberg

Special to The County

MARS HILL — Veteran coach Jason Woodworth is hoping a return to the Class D ranks will spark his Central Aroostook Panthers after consecutive losing seasons. Following six years as a Class C program, realignment by the Maine Principals’ Association has moved Central Aroostook back into Class D, where the Panthers will face a more favorable schedule. CA went 7-12 two years ago, while following that up with a 7-11 campaign in 202223 and for the first time in several years did not qualify for the postseason. Still, Woodworth liked the way his squad competed late in the season. “We felt like we were starting to figure some things out and were definitely playing our best, so hopefully we can continue to build off that,” he said. “We have the ability to be one of the top teams in D North, but that all depends on how much progress we make throughout the winter.” Woodworth said he has been emphasizing “creating a culture where we are committed to getting better each and every day, so that means being more focused more

Staff Photo Paul Bagnall

Members of the Central Aroostook High School boys varsity basketball team are, front from left, Trace Kinney, Jack Hentosh, Dylan McKeen, Kayson Bell, Isiah Kinney and Will Whited; and back, Assistant Coach Corey Burlock, Wyatt Allen, Kellen McCrum, Caleb Howlett, Chad Crandall, Colby Burlock, Jahleel Joseph, Caden Bell and Coach Jason Woodworth. consistently and taking things a little slower than usual.” The coach said patience will be a key, as six of the 13 varsity players are freshmen. “We want to be better at the basics than everyone else,” Woodworth said. “It doesn’t sound ﬂashy, but with such a diverse group that we have, we thought this was going to

be our best approach for success in the long term.” Central Aroostook’s starting lineup includes senior Colby Burlock, junior Trace Kinney and sophomore Caden Bell, along with two of the freshmen – Jahleel Joseph and Kellen McCrum. Woodworth said Burlock provides good leadership

and is a steady presence on the floor, and will be relied upon provide double-digit scoring consistently. The coach calls Kinney the team’s “motor” and he will be asked to guard the opponent’s best player most games. He is also one of the leading rebounders and runs the floor and finishes at the

rim well. Bell has made a huge leap from his freshman campaign, especially at the defensive end of the ﬂoor. Joseph will be the primary ball handler and has excelled in that role so far during the preseason, according to Woodworth. He will also be asked to contribute offensively as a distributor and

passer. The coach added that McCrum is a solid all-around player who is an intense defender, a good 3-point shooter and “is a great complementary player to round out the starting ﬁve.” Senior Wyatt Allen and freshman Will Whited will be the ﬁrst players off the bench for the Panthers. Allen is an inside-outside presence, while Whited has good size and a nose for the ball. Senior Caleb Howlett should also see minutes as a reserve, while the remainder of the team is made up of seniors Isaiah Kinney and Chad Crandall and freshmen Dylan McKeen, Kasen Bell and Jack Hentosh. “We are mixing in a lot of kids who haven’t played a lot together, so jelling will take some time and a lot of teamwork,” said Woodworth, who is assisted by Corey Burlock. “One thing that has impressed me early in the season is how much the kids want to win and their willingness to do what it takes to win,” Woodworth added. “We are coming off backto-back rough seasons and the kids are determined not to have that happen again.”

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EAST GRAND GIRLS • VIKINGS

East Grand girls entering a new era

By Joseph Cyr Special to The County DANFORTH — With a new head coach, and a bundle of new players, the East Grand varsity girls basketball team is looking to begin a new tradition of excellence. The Vikings enjoyed tremendous success on the hardwood over the past few seasons – earning back-to-back trips to Bangor. But most of the starters from last year’s squad are now gone. To keep the winning ways going, the Vikings have turned to one of their own to guide the team. Rusti Knights, a 1983 graduate of East Grand School, is taking over the reins of this year’s squad. Although it is her first varsity coaching position, she brings 30 years of coaching experience to the Vikings. Knights takes over coaching duties from Matt Day, who is now the girls varsity coach at Hodgdon High School. “Basketball is in my blood,” Knights said. “I played fourth grade through 12th grade, graduating from East Grand High in 1983. We finished that year as Class D State Champs.” Rebuilding a program is something Knights has first-hand experience with. “When I moved to Brookton, there was no program for

the elementary kids, which I knew would make it very hard for them to compete in High School,” Knights said. “So I was determined to use my knowledge of the sport to help all kids. “I had three daughters who I coached all through their elementary years and once they got into high school I became very involved with the high school program,” Knights continued. “Two played in college and one of them went on to coach. Once they graduated, I took time off and now I’m returning to the floor again as a coach.” Last season, East Grand finished with sixth in Class D North with an 11-7 record. The Vikings upset No. 3 Machias 45-27 in the quarterfinals before falling to No. 2 Wisdom, 54-20 in the semifinals. “We are very young and will have a learning year this year,” Knights said. Members of the 2023-24 East Grand squad are seniors Jenna Boyd (center/forward) and Jayden Williams (guard); junior Isabella Cowger (guard/forward); sophomores Rosemary Boyce (forward), Karagan Fleming (guard/ forward) and Nadia Merrill (guard/forward); freshman Jenna Daggett (guard/for-

Courtesy of Holly Dicker

Members of the East Grand varsity girls basketball team for the 2023-24 season are, front from left, Nadia Merrill, Caitlyn Drost, Camyrn Cowger and Karagan Fleming; and back, Manager Emily Pride, Rosemary Boyce, Jenna Boyd, Jayden Williams, Isabella Cowger, Lyndzey Shay, Coach Rusti Knights. ward); and eighth-graders Lyndzey Shay (forward), Caitlyn Drost (guard) and Camryn Cowger (guard). Lost to graduation were three key pieces of the Vikings squad – Phoebe Foss, Emma Davis and Madeline Cowger.

The team also lost the services of Victoria Gilman, who transferred to Hodgdon. “The girls are very excited and eager to get the ball rolling,” coach Knights said. “They are all willing to learn, which is very encouraging. They all

work well together, which will help our growth.We are looking to improve in all areas. Making the girls aware of their strengths and making those stronger and tackling their weaknesses and eliminating them.” For one Viking in particular,

this year will be viewed as a comeback season. A year ago, Boyd suffered a nasty ankle/leg injury, which forced her to miss much of the season. The coach said she has high hopes for her this year in providing key veteran leadership to the team.

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EAST GRAND BOYS • VIKINGS East Grand boys have new coach, new outlook By Joseph Cyr Special to The County DANFORTH — A new, but familiar face will be calling the shots from the sidelines for the boys basketball squad at East Grand this winter. Suanne Lindsey has taken over as the new head coach, replacing Matt Day who departed for the Hodgdon girls squad. Although it is her first year coaching the Viking boys, Lindsey has two prior years of coaching experience as an assistant with the East Grand girls. She also spent eight years as a middle school basketball coach. “Coaching basketball is very rewarding to me because it is a sport that I love,” coach Lindsey said. “I started playing basketball in the fourth grade and continued through college. I enjoy seeing the student athletes mature and grow. Working with individuals who love the game as much as me is the best part.” Lindsey has a number of returning players this season, many of whom are searching for their first varsity high school win. Last season, East Grand finished 0-18 on the season, and were also unable to secure a win during the 2021-22 season. The coach said she is optimistic that the struggles will come to an end this season as the team takes to the hardwood with renewed vigor. “My outlook for the upcoming season is to help the athletes be successful, and have them set individual and team goals,” she said. “To be successful, we need to be like a family. We need to learn about each other’s strengths and weaknesses and help each other.”

Courtesy of Holly Dicker

Members of the East Grand varsity boys basketball team for the 2023-24 season are, front from left, Bradyn Whiting, Mark Hallet, Gavin Kinney and Gauge Osgood; and back, Aaron Fortier, Amos Lindsey, Aiden McEwen, Brandon Waldahl, Nathan Frye, Noah Gilman and Coach Suanne Lindsey. The Vikings lost one starter – Jathaniel Lindsey – to graduation. Lindsey was the team’s center, tallest player and leading rebounder. Members of the 2023-24 East Grand boys team are senior Brandon Waldahl; juniors Nathan Frye and Aiden McEwen; sophomores Gauge Osgood, Noah Gilman, Amos Lindsey, and Aaron Fortier; freshmen Gavin Kinney and Mark Hallet; and eighth-grader Bradyn Whiting. Most of the returning players saw extensive

playing time last season as the Vikings had just eight members of the squad. The strength of this year’s Viking squad will likely be its heart and determination, according to the coach. “Watching these athletes for the past years, they are a group of young men who never give up,” she said. “We are a very young team, but a hardworking team. As the season progresses, we will be working to improve in all areas. The athletes will be learning to play different positions.”

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EASTON GIRLS • BEARS Bears to be defensive-minded under Carter

Staff Photo Paul Bagnall

Members of the 2023-2024 Easton High School girls varsity basketball team are, front from left, Makensie Kinney, Chloe Blackstone, Oliva Bate, Adrianna Bridges, Olivia Hopkins and Madison Seeley; and back, Head Coach Travis Carter, Allison Bate, Natalie MacFarline, Laynie Brewer, Chloe Lento, Amelia Bate, Mea Lagasse and Madison Bridges. By Kevin Sjoberg

Special to The County

EASTON — Travis Carter is looking forward to bringing in a new philosophy and some different ideas as he takes over as coach of the Easton girls varsity basketball team. He said he has a team willing to compete with intensity, and that should lead to some solid play at the defensive end of the ﬂoor. “This group of young ladies work very hard and they play defense very hard,” Carter said. “I’m very impressed with the ladies’ work ethic in practice. So one of our points of emphasis is to let our defense create our offense.” Carter said the squad is adapting well to his coaching methods. “We are working with a different plan from the past so every day requires focus, and that’s what I’m seeing so far,” he said. The coach will start the season with a lineup including his three senior captains,

Amelia Bate, Madison Seeley and Makenzie Kinney, along with juniors Chloe Lento and Madison Bridges. Bate will run the offense and could be one of the team’s top scorers. “She works hard and is willing to learn the changes I have in place to make the Bears a more successful group,” Carter said. Seeley will play the off guard and should be one of the strong defenders on the ﬂoor, according to the coach. “She will be very important for the defensive strategies I have in mind,” Carter said. “Offensively she can shoot from the outside and attack the rim as needed.” Kinney will be counted on for her leadership skills and ability to hit shots from the perimeter. “She is a good passer who is willing to listen and do whatever is needed to improve the team,” Carter said. Lento is playing competitive basketball for the ﬁrst time in a few years and Carter is glad she decided to return. She plays aggres-

sively and going after rebounds will be her specialty. Bridges is another aggressive player who runs the ﬂoor effectively. She will play inside and her quickness makes her a defensive standout as well as an offensive threat. The remaining players looking to contribute are freshman Adrianna Bridges, Olivia Hopkins, Allison Bate, Natalie MacFarline and Mea Lagasse; sophomores Olivia Bate and Chloe Blackstone and junior Laynie Brewer. Kody Carter, the coach’s son, will serve as an assistant coach. Caitlyn McPherson is the manager. “Our overall goal is to be competitive and try to get one game on the Bangor ﬂoor [in the Class D North tournament],” Carter said. “That could be a tall order, but I think any team with a goal gives them a chance to reach it. “The ladies seem excited for the basketball season,” he added. “They work hard in practice, they are attentive to the ideas I have and want to have some fun this year.”

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EASTON BOYS • BEARS Bears’ depth, versatility among strengths By Kevin Sjoberg

Special to The County

EASTON — After a tremendous start to the regular season, the Easton boys basketball team’s tournament run last year ended earlier than the Bears were hoping. Easton finished as the No. 4 team in Class D North and ran into a talented Bangor Christian team in the quarterfinals, with the Patriots registering the 63-55 victory. Third-year coach Danny Warren expects his squad to be competitive in the division once again, as several veterans who saw plenty of playing time return. Warren was non-committal of a starting five, but has plenty of worthy candidates. In the backcourt, seniors Owen Sweeney, Augustus Bonner and Dawson Lamoreau and junior Chase Flewelling return after serving key roles in 2022-23. According to Warren, Sweeney possesses great speed and has the ability to take the ball to the rim. He will ignite the Bears’ fast break. Bonner is a gritty defender, but is also an offensive threat both from inside and out. Lamoreau is a sharpshooter from the perimeter and can also drive to the basket effectively, while also being counted on as a key defensive weapon. The

Staff Photo Paul Bagnall

Members of the Easton boys basketball team for the 2023-24 season are, front from left, Chase Mitchell, Dawson Lamoreau, Owen Sweeney, Chase Flewelling, Drew Lamoreau, Brayden Boulier and Head Coach Dan Warren; and back, Blake King, Jamie McKay, Mason Adams, Augustus Bonner, Raiden Cochran, Zach Pelletier, Trey Brewer, Stephen Summerson and Assistant Coach Luke Hafford. coach expects the most growth out of Flewelling, who is an outstanding passer and can also score in multiple ways. Frontcourt players ﬁguring in the rotation are juniors Zach Pelletier and Stephen Summerson and senior Mason Adams. Pelletier is a multi-faceted performer who handles the ball well and can get to the basket and ﬁnish. His long arms make him a defensive weapon. Summerson is a strong inside player

who will be counted on as a rebounder and interior scorer, while Adams will also mix it up underneath and can also connect on mid-range jump shots. Senior Trey Brewer, a defensive standout; junior Brayden Boulier, a guard with shooting ability; and sophomore Raiden Cochran, an intense performer who has the ability to score from the perimeter, will also compete for minutes. Swinging between junior

varsity and varsity are freshmen Drew Lamoreau, Chase Mitchell and Jamie McKay. Warren said junior Jake King, who suffered a broken leg during soccer season, will likely miss the season. He will be a manager along with Grace Ellis and Rylee Cassidy. The coach said the schedule will be challenging with the addition of Class C regional runner-up Fort Kent, but the squad’s versatility should make the Bears a dif-

ﬁcult matchup for a majority of the teams they will face. “I think we’ll be extremely fast, but also big enough to play slow if needed,” Warren said, “And we should be able to employ an array of defenses to keep the opposition on their toes.” Warren is hopeful for a lengthy tournament run in Class D despite having to contend with two-time state champion Southern Aroostook and several other strong squads, includ-

ing long-standing rival Central Aroostook, which returns to the division after competing in Class C for the past few years. “We need to stick to our principles to be successful,” he said. “Obviously staying healthy is key too, but we are fortunate to have some real good players coming off our bench. I just know the boys are ready to give it their all for one more chance to hit the [Cross Center] ﬂoor,” he added.

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FORT FAIRFIELD GIRLS • TIGERS Tigers hope discipline will win out this season By Paul Bagnall Staff Writer

FORT FAIRFIELD — The Fort Fairfield girls varsity basketball team has a new head coach this year to tackle the Class C season, but she is no stranger to the Tiger faithful. Sydney Churchill is taking over the Fort Fairfield Tigers at the varsity level and is passionate about teaching the game to younger generations. But she also has some big shoes to fill, taking over the program from Larry Gardner, who guided the squad for 25 years. In just the first couple weeks, the Fort Fairfield Tigers have gotten used to their new coach and are fully committed to the learning process. One thing emphasized in the preseason meeting is the Fort Fairfield girls varsity basketball team’s work ethic, which has shown discipline and willingness to work hard on improving their game. “I wanted the [Tigers] this year to not only be supportive of each other

Staff Photo Paul Bagnall

Members of the 2023-2024 Fort Fairﬁeld girls varsity basketball team are, front from left, Chloe White, Laney Devine, Lydia Gorneault, Brianna Osterblom and Madison Perry; and back, Sydney Churchill, Cady Stairs, Mattey Devine, Sare Bernard, Madison Parks and McKenna Mitchell. in practices and games but also outside of basketball as well,” Churchill said. “They have shown that they know the importance of success for

our team comes from supporting and encouraging one another on and off the court.” Even before Churchill was done playing com-

petitively in both high school and college, she always wanted to coach and ﬁnds it rewarding to see younger players improve their skills and

develop a passion for basketball. “I played basketball all four years in high school as well as all four years in college, and

through all of my experiences, I knew I always wanted to give back to the game that gave me some of my best memories,” Churchill said.

Members of the 2023-2024 Tigers are returning seniors Lydia Gorneault and Laney Devine, with juniors Brianna Osterblom, Cady Stairs, and Mattey Devine. The sophomores are Sare Bernard and Madison Perry with freshmen McKenna Mitchell, Madison Parks, and Chloe White. In the 2022-2023 season, the regular Class C season record was 7-10 with the Tigers not making it to the quarterfinals. This year, the Fort Fairfield Tigers want to make it to Bangor despite a key loss with the graduation of Kassidy Gorneault. “Our attitude towards this season is giving 100 percent effort, day in and day out, to get to where we want to be by the end of the season,” Churchill said. “We want to make a statement in Class C this year, we aren’t going to be a team to overlook.” Some areas the Fort Fairfield Tigers hope to improve on are their conditioning, outside shooting, and free throws.

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FORT FAIRFIELD BOYS • TIGERS Tigers have potential to be Class C contender By Kevin Sjoberg

Special to The County

FORT FAIRFIELD — Excitement surrounding the Tigers’ basketball program is evident from the turnout at tryouts in November. Coach Vaughn McLaughlin noted that 28 players went out for the varsity and JV teams, which he said is the most he can remember “in at least a decade.” Fort Fairfield appears to be a team on the rise. Last year, the Tigers put together a 14-4 record during the regular season, placing fourth in the Class C North standings. They defeated Woodland in the quarterfinal round before falling to No. 1 Calais in the semifinals. Only two players were lost to graduation, so Fort Fairfield brings back plenty of firepower. McLaughlin said he has seven players competing for starting spots. The three

Staff Photo Paul Bagnall

Members of the 2023-2024 Fort Fairﬁeld boys varsity basketball team are, front from left, Nicholas O’Neal, Jacob Beaulieu, Gabe Theriault, Joel Cormier, Caydn Ala and Jacob Edgecomb; and back are, Head Coach Vaughn McLaughlin, Manager Liam Giberson, Ian Willard, Ethan Willard, Brett Senal, Micah Daigle, Graedon King, Manager Michael Bruce, Varsity Assistant Dawson Watson and Varsity Assistant John Ala. seniors in the mix are point guard Joel Cormier, outside shooting ace Gabe Theriault and athletic forward Micah Daigle. Junior Brett Senal is a 6-foot, 4-inch forward who is comfortable playing both inside and out. The Tigers are bolstered by a strong sophomore group including Graedon

King, a well-rounded competitor, along with 6-2 leaper Ethan Willard and skilled guard Cayden Ala. Other players on the team include senior guard Jacob Beaulieu, junior forward Ian Willard, sophomores Charlie Griffeth and Mason Mitchell and freshman Jacob Edgecomb. The Tigers’ manag-

ers are Michael Bruce and Liam Giberson. McLaughlin is impressed with what he’s seen from his team in the early going. “So far, our transition game looks solid and we play with a lot of defensive intensity,” he said. “We need to shoot the ball better and get in better condition, but that will come.”

The veteran coach said many of his players were on the school’s soccer team, which is coming off a successful fall, but ended up just short of a regional championship. “I am impressed with the focus of our young men,” McLaughlin said. “Most of them are still shaking off the sting

of losing the Northern Maine soccer ﬁnal and seem determined to prepare themselves for success in this sport.” The Tigers play against teams from three different divisions during the regular season. Class B Houlton is a new opponent, while Fort Kent and Madawaska are the other C squads.

Fort Fairﬁeld also takes on two-time Class D defending state champion Southern Aroostook, while Easton, Katahdin, Ashland, Central Aroostook and Washburn are the other D opponents. “We have a difﬁcult schedule and if we want to compete at a high level we need to constantly be

challenged. I think we will do well in Class C, as long as we can avoid injuries and keep our composure in difﬁcult situations,” McLaughlin said. “Limiting turnovers, gaining a numbers advantage with transition, defense and rebounding are the keys to us having a competitive season,” he added.

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FORT KENT GIRLS • WARRIORS Staff Staff photo photo Chris Chris Bouchard Bouchard

Members Members of of the the Fort Fort Kent Kent varsity girls basketball varsity girls basketball team team for for the the 2023-24 2023-24 season season are, are, front front from from left, left, Emma Emma Caron, Caron, Julia Julia Cyr, Cyr, Madeline Madeline Philbrook, Philbrook, Mia Mia Voisine Voisine and and Hannah Hannah Lovley; Lovley; middle, middle, Niah Niah Durost, Durost, Nicole Nicole Daigle, Daigle, Emma Emma Kelly, Kelly, Isabelle Isabelle Sterris Sterris and and Angel Angel Pelletier; Pelletier; and and back, back, Amarii Amarii Weaver, Weaver, Cassidy Cassidy McBreairty, McBreairty, Ellie Ellie Roy, Roy, Lily Lily Wertgen, Wertgen, Lily Lily Oliver, Oliver, Katherine Katherine Michaud Michaud and and Emilee Emilee Blodgett. Blodgett. Emlyn Emlyn Nadeau Nadeau was was not not present present for for the the photo. photo.

Fort Kent girls team bring competitive edge By By Chris Chris Bouchard Bouchard Staff Staff Writer Writer FORT FORT KENT KENT — — The The Fort Fort Kent girls varsity basketball Kent girls varsity basketball team team is is pushing pushing themselves themselves during practices during practices and and are are ready ready to to compete compete in in the the 2023-24 2023-24 season. season. Coach Coach Kelly Kelly O’Leary, O’Leary, who who has has coached coached the the team team for for nine nine years, years, said said the the team team is is looking looking forward forward to to the the upupcoming coming season. season. O’Leary O’Leary also also coached coached aa Valley Valley squad squad in in the the Aroostook Youth Basketball Aroostook Youth Basketball League League (AYBL) (AYBL) for for eight eight years in Fort Kent. years in Fort Kent. “We “We have have aa nice nice mix mix of of vetveteran seniors who are solid eran seniors who are solid and and some some really really good good underclassunderclassmen men who who are are ready ready to to comcompete,” pete,” he he said. said. “Our “Our seniors seniors have have set set the the standard standard of of play play very very high high and and we we compete compete evevery ery practice practice in in every every drill.” drill.” He He said said one one of of the the team’s team’s greatest strengths is its greatest strengths is its culture. culture.

“They “They care care enough enough that that they push and compete they push and compete with with each each other, other, without without apology,” apology,” he said. “They he said. “They bring bring energy energy and and passion passion into into practice practice and and put put the the work work in.” in.” The The team team had had aa 10-8 10-8 rerecord last season and cord last season and finished finished eighth eighth in in the the Class Class C C North North region. The Warriors region. The Warriors beat beat No. No. 99 Woodland Woodland 72-41 72-41 in in aa preliminary preliminary round round game, game, earning earning aa spot spot at at the the Cross Cross InInsurance Center in Bangor. surance Center in Bangor. In In the the quarterfinals, quarterfinals, Fort Fort Kent Kent went went up up against against top-seeded top-seeded Dexter Dexter and and lost, lost, 47-27. 47-27. This This year, year, O’Leary O’Leary said said he he would would like like the the team team to to work work on on performing performing under under pressure. pressure. “Simplify “Simplify things things so so when when the pressure and stress the pressure and stress arrives arrives we we can can still still perform,” perform,” he he said. said. The team consists The team consists of of six six freshmen, freshmen, two two sophomores, sophomores, five five juniors juniors and and five five seniors. seniors.

Freshman Freshman players players are are Emilee Emilee Blodgett, Nicole Blodgett, Nicole Daigle, Daigle, Emma Emma Kelly, Kelly, Niah Niah Durost, Durost, Cassidy McBreairty Cassidy McBreairty and and AnAngel gel Pelletier. Pelletier. Emlyn Emlyn Nadeau Nadeau and and Katherine Katherine Michaud Michaud are are the the team’s team’s two two sophomore sophomore players. players. The The junior junior players players are are Lily Lily Oliver, Oliver, Lily Lily Wertgen, Wertgen, Ellie Ellie Roy, Roy, Amarii Amarii Weaver Weaver and and IsaIsabelle belle Sterris. Sterris. And And the the seniors seniors are are Emma Emma Caron, Caron, Julia Julia Cyr, Cyr, Hannah Hannah Lovley, Lovley, Mia Mia Voisine Voisine and and Madeline Madeline Philbrook. Philbrook. O’Leary O’Leary said said the the team team lost lost Larissa Daigle and Genevieve Larissa Daigle and Genevieve Naranja Naranja to to graduation graduation last last year. year. This season, the Warriors This season, the Warriors are are dedicating dedicating their their work work to Eric Werntgen, to Eric Werntgen, aa former former Fort Fort Kent Kent educator, educator, athletic athletic director and director and coach coach who who died died in in early early 2021. 2021. “This “This year year we we play play for for our our friend friend and and coach coach Eric Eric Werntgen, Werntgen, who who is is missed,” missed,” O’Leary O’Leary said. said.

2023-2024 COUNTY HOOP REVIEW • DECEMBER 20, 2023 • 19

FORT KENT BOYS • WARRIORS Staff Staff photo photo Chris Chris Bouchard Bouchard

Members Members of of the the Fort Fort Kent Kent varsity boys basketball varsity boys basketball team team for for 2023-24 2023-24 are are front front from left, Aden from left, Aden Jeffers, Jeffers, Mason Mason Pelletier, Pelletier, Wil Morneault, Wil Morneault, James James Lamarre, Lamarre, Dominic Dominic Cyr Cyr and and Ricky Ricky Huang; Huang; and and back, back, Assistant Assistant Coach Coach John John Naranja, Tobias Naranja, Tobias Naranja, Naranja, Gavin Gavin Severe, Severe, Ethan Ethan Daigle, Drew Daigle, Drew Deschaine, Deschaine, Eddie Eddie Lewis, Lewis, Caleb Caleb Lavertu, Assistant Lavertu, Assistant Coach Coach Dominique Dominique Rossignol Rossignol and and Head Coach Head Coach Chad Chad Cyr. Cyr.

Fort Kent boys are eager to put in the work By By Chris Chris Bouchard Bouchard Staff Staff Writer Writer FORT FORT KENT KENT — — Fort Fort Kent Kent varsity varsity boys boys basketball basketball coach coach Chad Chad Cyr Cyr said said this this year’s year’s team team may may be be fairly fairly young, young, but but they’re they’re eager eager to to learn learn and and willing willing to to put put in in the the work work for for 2023-24 2023-24 basketball basketball season. season. This This is is Cyr’s Cyr’s fifth fifth year year as as aa varsity coach for the Fort Kent varsity coach for the Fort Kent Warrior Warrior boys. boys. In In the the past, past, he he coached middle school coached middle school basbasketball ketball for for three three years years and and also coached Aroostook also coached Aroostook Youth Youth Basketball Basketball League League (AYBL) (AYBL) for several years. for several years. The The team team finished finished its its regregular season last year ular season last year with with aa record record of of 14-4. 14-4. The The Warriors Warriors made it to Bangor, made it to Bangor, where where they they won won both both the the quarterfinal quarterfinal and and semifinal semifinal games, games, and and went went all all the the way way to to the the Class Class C C North North championship championship game game against against Calais, Calais, where where they they lost, lost, 80-49. 80-49. Fort Fort Kent Kent ended ended the the season season

with with aa 16-5 16-5 overall overall record. record. “This “This season season we we have have aa pretty tough schedule,” pretty tough schedule,” Coach Coach Cyr Cyr said. said. “We “We are are hoping to compete hoping to compete with with eveveryone eryone on on our our schedule schedule but but that will take some that will take some very very hard hard work work on on our our part.” part.” Luckily, Luckily, Cyr Cyr said said one one of of the the team’s team’s greatest greatest strengths strengths is is its its “Warrior “Warrior mentality.” mentality.” “We “We may may be be outmatched outmatched and outsized in and outsized in some some of of our our matchups, matchups, but but the the boys boys will will try try their their hardest hardest to to ensure ensure they they are are not not outworked,” outworked,” he he said. said. “That “That is is our our biggest biggest strength, strength, as as far far as as I’m I’m concerned concerned it’s it’s the the most most important.” important.” He He said said the the team’s team’s biggest biggest area for improvement area for improvement is is dedefense, fense, which which has has been been the the same same every every year. year. Cyr Cyr added added that that the the team team will will also also work work on on improvimproving ing their their transition transition offense. offense. Last Last year, year, the the team team lost lost six six seniors: Keegan Cyr, seniors: Keegan Cyr, Ethan Ethan

Raymond, Raymond, Tyler Tyler Ryder, Ryder, Lance Lance Gagnon, Gagnon, Bruce Bruce ValValcourt, court, and and Alex Alex Nadeau. Nadeau. “They “They will will be be extremely extremely missed this year,” missed this year,” the the coach coach said. said. This This year’s year’s team team includes includes three three freshmen, freshmen, four four sophosophomores mores and and five five seniors. seniors. FreshFreshman man players players are are Dominic Dominic Cyr Cyr (guard/forward), (guard/forward), Aden Aden Jeffers Jeffers (guard) (guard) and and Mason Mason Pelletier Pelletier (guard). The sophomore (guard). The sophomore playplayers ers are are Will Will Marneault Marneault (guard), (guard), James James Lamarre Lamarre (guard), (guard), TobiTobias as Naranja Naranja (guard), (guard), and and Gavin Gavin Severe Severe (forward). (forward). Seniors Seniors on on the the team team are are Ethan Daigle (guard), Ethan Daigle (guard), CaCaleb leb Lavertu Lavertu (guard), (guard), Eddie Eddie Lewis (forward), Lewis (forward), Drew Drew DeDeschaine schaine (center), (center), and and Ricky Ricky Huang Huang (forward). (forward). The The team team is is also also welcoming welcoming two new assistant two new assistant coaches coaches this this year, year, Dominique Dominique Rossignol Rossignol and and John John Naranja. Naranja.

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HODGDON GIRLS • HAWKS Hodgdon girls looking to make some noise Courtesy of Joseph Cyr

Members of the Hodgdon varsity girls basketball team for the 2023-24 season are, front from left, Shae Gilbert, Ava Ezell, Victoria Gilman and Kennady Wright; and back, Coach Matthew Day, Paige Fitzpatrick, Meghan Peters, Anna Oliver, Sydney Harvey, Aleyah Matheson, Gracie Little, and Managers Sarah Matheson and Sydney Rockwell.

By Joseph Cyr Special to The County HODGDON — Armed with one of the best all-around school-girl basketball players in the state, the Hodgdon girls could be poised to make some considerable noise this winter. Junior point guard Anna Oliver returns to lead the Hawks after a strong sophomore season in which she helped her team to an impressive 17-1 record. Hodgdon’s only regular-season blemish was a 56-54 loss to Southern Aroostook (the eventual Class D State Champs). The Hawks finished third in Class C North, beating No. 11 Central Aroostook 47-20 in the quarterfinals before falling 4227 to No. 2 Penobscot Valley in the semifinals. But if the Hawks are to have success this year, they must do so without the guidance of veteran coach Wendell Harvey, who stepped down after seven seasons with the club. Fortunately, the team will be able to turn to new head coach Matt Day, who helped guide the East Grand girls to their first postseason appearance in

Bangor in seven years back in 2021. He followed that up with another successful run in the 2022-23 season. Day also served as the varsity boys coach for East Grand during that two-year span. Prior to that run, he coached the Greater Houlton Christian Academy boys for three seasons. “I enjoy coaching because I enjoy impacting the youth in the area in a positive way,” Day said. “I try to make their time on the court enjoyable, but also educational. I try to incorporate all aspects of life into my coaching. Being a mentor and role model is my first priority. I most enjoy the relationships that are formed after they graduate and become members of the community.” Members of the 2023-24 Hodgdon Hawks are freshman Kennady Wright; sophomores Ava Ezell and Paige Fitzpatrick; juniors, Shae Gilbert, Gracie Little and Anna Oliver; and seniors Aleyah Matheson, Meghan Peters, Victoria Gilman and Sydney Harvey. Matheson and Peters were two key components of last year’s squad, while Harvey was one of the first players off the bench most nights. Gilman was a strong player for East Grand last season, but has since transferred to Hodgdon. Much of the team’s success,

however, will likely fall on the capable shoulders of Oliver, who has drawn the attention of several Division I college scouts since she burst onto the basketball scene during her freshman season. “Anna is a very versatile player who can do everything,” the coach said. “But we also have Aleyah Matheson who has improved her game tremendously. I am looking to complement Anna’s ball movement with Aleyah’s speed.” He added Peters is another player to watch as she is also extremely quick, often sacrificing her body diving for loose balls. “I’m going to shake things up with some of the roles previously on the team,” Day said. “Hopefully, some changes will lead to successful results, but my main goal is for the girls to have fun.” The Hawks lost two key offensive players to graduation, Marissa Dow and Sadie Thompson, both of whom had established themselves as elite shooters, particularly from behind the 3-point arc. Other graduating seniors were Madison Smith and Vickie Porter, who provided quality minutes coming off the bench. Day said he was hopeful to carry on the proud Hawk tradition of excellent basketball that his predecessor brought to the school and was optimistic for Hodgdon’s chances this year. “I want to incorporate everyone into the season,” he said. “There’s a lot of talent and my goal is to use it to the max to get the best possible result. My main goal is to teach them hard work, dedication and trust. Ultimately our goal is going deep into the playoffs.” The Hawks will look to push the ball even more this season, using its speed on both sides of the floor.

2023-2024 COUNTY HOOP REVIEW • DECEMBER 20, 2023 • 23

HODGDON BOYS • HAWKS

Hodgdon boys are young, but scrappy By Joseph Cyr Special to The County HODGDON — The Hodgdon boys basketball team will be entering a new phase when it hits the hardwood this winter. With a squad filled with underclassmen, including a whopping nine freshmen, the Hawks will essentially have a clean slate, ripe with potential. The team may also have a few learning curves along the way as the Hawks compete in the rugged Class C North division. Hodgdon finished 7-11 a year ago, just missing out on a spot in the postseason as the team finished 14th in the region. Hoping to reverse their fortunes this year, the Hawks also have a new head coach, Sam Henderson, whose pedigree proceeds him at Hodgdon. Henderson spent four years as the boys varsity coach at Greater Houlton Christian Academy from 2008-2012, helping guide the Eagles to a playoff appearance in Bangor. He is also a 1,000-point scorer during his playing days for the Hawks in the mid-1990s, finishing as a BDN Eastern Maine Boys All-Tourney Team selection and William C. Warner MVP in both 1995 and 1996. Henderson replaces Matt Oliver, who guided the squad for four seasons. The new coach said he was eager to return to coaching after an 11-year hiatus. “I enjoy coaching high school for two reasons,” Henderson said. “I love watching the progression of the team and the progression of the young men turning into men. (I enjoy) being part of their lives to help create a productive and great citizen and getting to be one piece of that is exciting to me.” Members of the 2022-23 Hawk roster are freshmen PJ

Courtesy of Joseph Cyr

Members of the Hodgdon boys basketball team for the 2023-24 season are, front from left David Tuttle, Wyatt Oliver, Oisin Gardiner, Reiley Wright and Wyatt Sanford; and back, Derek Golding, Logan Sherman, Cyran Ciarleglio, Brody Little, Daniel Clark, Daniel Henderson and Coach Sam Henderson.

Ledbetter, Finn Gardner, Cyran Ciarleglio, Logan Sherman, John Gaddis, James Gaddis, Wyatt Oliver, Kody Richardson, and Jacob Tuttle. The sophomores are Wyatt Sanford, Dan Clark and Daniel Henderson, while the juniors are Derek Golding, David Tuttle and Brody Little. Henderson, the coach’s son, played for Houlton last season before transferring to Hodgdon this year. The Hawks have just two seniors on the roster – Oisin Gardner and Reiley Wright – both of whom were key members of last year’s squad. Gardner could become the key ball handler this season, while Wright has good size to compete in the low post. Hodgdon lost several key members of last year’s squad as Walker Oliver, Drew Duttweiler, Caleb Tuttle and Cordel Smith all graduated. Walker Oliver was a sensational player for the Hawks, capable of scoring 40 or more points on any given night, while Duttweiler was one of the team’s best rebounders. Henderson said he was optimistic of his team’s chances for

success this year as he hopes to build some new successes for the program. “I have a very positive outlook on the season,” he said. “We are young and eager to play. There is lots of energy and this is a group of very coachable young men.” One of the Hawks’ strengths this season will be the team’s love for the game of basketball, the coach said. “They want to be here and are excited for the new season,” he said. The team also has a good amount of diversity on its roster, which features a solid mixture of quick players with good outside shots and several bigger players looking to be more physical on the offensive and defensive glass. One area the coach hopes to work on as the season progresses is developing greater maturity on the court, while bringing positive attitudes and a culture of team-oriented basketball. “We have lots of youth and some experience,” Henderson said. “I am excited for the season to begin.”

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HOULTON GIRLS • SHIRES Courtesy of Joseph Cyr Courtesy of Joseph Cyr

Members of Members of the the HoultonHoultonGreater Houlton Christian Greater Houlton Christian Academy girls basketball Academy girls basketball team for are, from team for 2023-24 2023-24 are, from left, Gabby Gentle, Amelia left, Gabby Gentle, Amelia Callnan, Camille Callnan, Camille Callnan, Callnan, Karyssa Kenney, Lilly Karyssa Kenney, Lilly Brewer, Danlen Espenscheid, Brewer, Danlen Espenscheid, Kaitlyn Kenney, Tori Kaitlyn Kenney, Tori Leah Ervin, Payton Collins, Ervin, Payton Collins, Leah Swallow Swallow and and Mylie Mylie Syliva. Syliva.

Houlton-GHCA girls remain hungry for success By Cyr By Joseph Joseph Cyr Special to The County Special to The County HOULTON — After HOULTON — After

coming close to coming close to reaching reachingtheaa regional championship, regional championship, the Houlton-Greater Houlton-Greater Houlton Houlton

Christian Academy girls Christian Academy girls basketball team remains basketball team remains hungry hungry for for success. success.

But the second straight But for for the second straight season, the squad will have aa season, the squad will have new head coach calling the new head coach callingKen the plays from the sideline. plays from the sideline. Ken Ervin takes the Ervin takes over over the program program after Clyde Warman stepped after Clyde Warman stepped down after one season. down after one season. Ervin brings a wealth of Ervin brings a wealth of coaching experience to the coaching experience toyears the program. He spent five program. He spent five years as the coach at as the boys boys varsity varsity coach at Monadnock Regional High Monadnock Regional High School in New School in Swanzey, Swanzey, New Hampshire. His squad won Hampshire. His squad won aa state championship during state championship during his first season as coach. hisHe first season as coach. also assistant He was wasmen’s also an anbasketball assistant college college men’s basketball coach for years at coach for nine nine College years –– two two at Southampton (NY) Southampton College (NY) and seven years and seven University years at at FrankFranklin Pierce (NH) lin Pierce University (NH) which was his alma mater. which was his alma mater. Upon moving to Houlton Upon moving toErvin Houlton several years ago, several years in ago, Ervin was was instrumental bringing lainstrumental in bringing lacrosse to the Shiretown. crosse to the inspiring, Shiretown.men“I enjoy “I enjoy inspiring, mentoring, teaching, and pretoring, teaching, and preparing teenagers through paring teenagers through their high years, and their high school school years, and in preparation for life after in preparation for life after high school,” Ervin said. high school,” Ervin said. “To couple that with a sport “To couple that with a sport they like to and they likepassion to play playfor andisIIahave have aa strong perstrong passion for is a perfect match.” fect match.” A year ago, the Shires A year ago, the Shires finfin-

ished 9-9 during regular ished 9-9 duringthethe thefifth regular season, earning seed season, earning the fifth seed in Class B North. The team in Class B North. The team beat No. 12 Mount View, 49beat No. 12 Mount View, 4928, in a preliminary playoff 28, in a preliminary playoff and upset No. 4 Washington and upset No. 4 Washington Academy, 54-32, in Academy, 54-32, in the the quarquarterfinals. Houlton-GHCA terfinals. Houlton-GHCA lost to No. 11 Old lost tothe No.semifinals. Old Town, Town, 616134, in 34,The in the semifinals. Shires lost playThe Shires lost two two players to graduation – Drew ers to graduation – Drew Warman and Emma Warman and starters Emma Swallow Swallow –– who were and who were starters and key key contributors for the team. contributors forour thework team. cut “We have “We have their our work cut out to missing out to fill fill and their scoring,” missing leadership leadership and scoring,” coach Ervin said. “We have coach Ervin said. “We have aa good mix of six experigood mix of six experienced seniors and rising enced seniors and rising sophomores and freshmen. sophomores and freshmen. The tricky part is The tricky part is working working with these ladies to with these ladies to ununderstand another coach’s derstand another coach’s expectations, philosophy, expectations, philosophy, drills, and as am drills, and plays plays as IIyears.” am the the third coach in three third coach in three years.” Members of the Members of2023-24 the Shire Shire girls squad for are girls squad for 2023-24 are seniors Gabby Gentle, Ameseniors GabbyCamille Gentle, Amelia Callnan, Calllia Callnan, Camille Callnan, Danlen Espenscheid, nan, Danlen Espenscheid, Kaitlyn Kenney and Kaitlyn Kenney and Lilly Lilly Brewer; sophomores Tori Brewer; sophomores Tori Ervin, Mylie Sylvia, Payton Ervin, Mylie Sylvia, Payton Collins, Leah Collins, Leah Swallow Swallow and and Karyssa Kenney. Karyssa Kenney.

Ervin said to learn Ervin said having having to learn yet another new coach’s yet another new coach’s philosophy can be philosophy can be challengchallenging, but he is confident his ing, but he is confident his squad is up for it. squad is upladies for it.prove each “These “These ladies prove resileach day in their effort day inand their effort how how resilient hardworking they ient and hardworking they are,” he said. “As important are,” he Junior said. “As important as our Varsity and as our seasons Junior Varsity and Varsity are, it is as Varsity seasons are, atit isgirls as important to look important to look at girls basketball from first-12th basketball from first-12th grade in the greater Houlton grade in the greater Houlton area as one program with an area as one program withdean opportunity to grow and opportunity to grow and develop the sport.” velop the sport.” The Shires’ strength is the The Shires’ strength isand the team’s ability to adapt team’s ability the to adapt and the chemistry group dethe chemistry the group developed. veloped. “Playing with good “Playing with good sportsmanship, being the sportsmanship, being the best teammate they can be best teammate they can be to each other, and trying to each other, and trying their hardest are the fundatheir hardest are theoffundamental principles mental principles of high high school sports,” he said. school sports,” he said. As the progresses, Ascoach the season season progresses, the said he hopes the coach said he hopes to to see an increased confidence see an increased confidence with each practice and exhiwith each practice and exhibition game. bition game.coach Ervin this Assisting Assisting coach Ervin this season is (Flewelling) season is Aspen Aspen (Flewelling) Fitzpatrick, a former Shire Fitzpatrick, astandout former threeShire who was a who was a with standout threesport athlete the school. sport athlete with the school.

2023-2024 COUNTY HOOP REVIEW • DECEMBER 20, 2023 • 27

HOULTON BOYS • SHIRES

Courtesy of Joseph Cyr

Courtesy Barton, of Joseph Cyr Members of the 2023-24 Houlton-Greater Houlton Christian Academy boys basketball team are, from left, Shane Grass, Landon Laferrier, Jaedon Wu, Thadon Gentle, Brandon Mike Members of thePowell, 2023-24Zach Houlton-Greater Christian Academy boysBeaulieu, basketballMark teamThibodeau, are, from left, Shane Grass,and Landon Laferrier, Conley, Payton Ervin, IsaiahHoulton Ervin, Bronson Hanning, Owen Adrian Norton Aedon Valles. Jaedon Wu, Thadon Gentle, Brandon Barton, Mike Conley, Payton Powell, Zach Ervin, Isaiah Ervin, Bronson Hanning, Owen Beaulieu, Mark Thibodeau, Adrian Norton and Aedon Valles.

Houlton boys seeking return to playoff form

By Joseph Cyr By Joseph Special to The Cyr County Special to The County HOULTON — The HOULTON — The Houlton-Greater Houlton Houlton-Greater Houlton Christian Academy boys Christian boys basketball Academy team has lofty basketball team hasoflofty goals for the start the goals for the start of the new season. new season. After missing out on missing outago, on theAfter playoffs a year the playoffs year ago, the squad isa eager for the squadbeginning is eager with for a fresh a fresh ofbeginning hopes returningwith to hopes returningconto form as of a postseason form as aAnd postseason contender. with many tender. withonmany talented And players the talented on the team, the players Shires could do team, the that. Shires could do precisely precisely that. The Shires finished The lastShires 5-13 season,finished which 5-13them last asseason, put the 15thwhich seed put them BasNorth the 15th in Class andseed not in playoff Class Bcontention. North and Renot in in playoff Reversing thatcontention. trend is someversing trend something thethat team is is eager to thing the team is eager to

accomplish this year. accomplish “Just like this anyyear. year, we “Justto like year, we want winany every game want to win game and that willevery always be and that will always be our approach,” coach our Travisapproach,” Gentle said. coach “Our Travis Gentle realistic goal said. is to“Our get realistic to ourget to Bangorgoal and is give to Bangor and give ourselves a chance.” selves a chance.” Entering his fourth seaEntering fourthboys season as thehisShires son as Gentle the Shires boys coach, is eager to coach,the Gentle is anew. eager to begin season begin the season anew. at “I enjoy coaching enjoy coaching at all“I levels,” coach Genall levels,” tle said. “I coach like toGensee tle said. “I like see when the light bulbto goes when lightfinally bulb goes off andthea kid gets off and a kid what you havefinally been gets trywhat have beenI like trying toyou teach them. ing to teach like coaching the them. older Ikids, coaching the older because when theykids, are because and when they they are pushed realize pushed and realize can do more and gothey becan do their more and go beyond limitations yond their limitations

and abilities is something and abilities is something amazing to witness.” amazing to witness.” Members of the 2023of theare 202324Members Shire squad se24 Shire squadHanning, are seniors Bronson niors Bronson Hanning, Zach Ervin, Adrian NorZachLandon Ervin, Laferrier Adrian Norton, and ton, Landon Laferrier and Owen Beaulieu; juniors Owen Beaulieu; juniors Payton Powell, Thadon Payton Gentle, Powell, Isaiah Thadon Ervin, Gentle, Thibodeau Isaiah Ervin, Mark and Mark and BrandonThibodeau Barton; sophBrandon Jaedon Barton;Wusophomores and omores Jaedonand Wufreshand Aedon Valles; AedonMike Valles; and freshmen Conley and men ShaneMike Grass. Conley and Shane “We Grass. have some good “We have somewill good athletes and we be athletes and be relying on we that will abilirelying on plays that for ability to make us ty to make the playsseason,” for us throughout throughout season,” coach Gentlethe said. coach The Gentle Shiressaid. lost two The Shires two players – Cody lost Johnston players – Cody Johnston and Zachary Carpenter – and Zachary Carpenter –

to graduation, but have a to graduation, but have number of younger play-a number ers eageroftoyounger step upplaythis ers eagerThe to step up also this season. team season. The teamin also received a boost size received boostofin Zach size with the areturn with the return of Zach Ervin (a 6-6 center) who Ervin (a 6-6 center) who

is back playing basketis basketballback after playing a year hiatus. ball afterteam a year hiatus. If the is to be sucIf the team to betosuccessful, it willisneed cut cessful, will need which to cut down onitturnovers, down on the turnovers, plagued Shires awhich seaplagued Shires said. a season ago, the the coach A son ago, the coach said. A

greater emphasis on free greater emphasis free throw shooting is on another throwheshooting another area plans to is focus on. area focus on. “Ifheweplans can toimprove in “If we can we improve in those areas will be those areas we will be in most games,” coach in mostsaid. games,” coach Gentle Gentle said.

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KATAHDIN GIRLS • COUGARS

Katahdin girls seek continued playoff tradition By Joseph Cyr Special to The County STACYVILLE — A young, but talented roster of athletes has Katahdin girls varsity basketball coach Shaun McAvoy excited for the prospects of the upcoming season. Embarking on his seventh season with the Cougars, McAvoy said he feels this year’s club has a strong mixture of returning veterans and athletic underclassmen who are eager to make their mark on the court. “I have a lot of young players, but have some experience and good leadership,” he said. “I expect we will compete well in our class (Class D North).” The Cougars have been in the playoff picture in each of McAvoy’s seven seasons, which is a testament to his ability to get the most out of his squads. “I like coaching high school kids,” McAvoy said of his desire to return for another season. “I enjoy helping to develop young athletes in skill and character. I have always loved competition. I love the game and serving my community. Last season, Katahdin finished 9-9 during the regular season, which was good enough for the No. 5 seed in Class D North. The squad received a first-round bye, earning a trip to

Bangor for the seventh straight season. In the quarterfinals, Katahdin fell 45-21 to No. 4 Deer Isle-Stonington. Katahdin lost just one player – Maggie O’Hara – from that team to graduation. Members of the 2023-24 Katahdin girls varsity squad are seniors Shelby Libby and Hunter Hartsgrove; junior Mickenzie Landry; sophomores Emily McNally, Ayanna Lester, Natasha Annis and Raven Shields; and freshmen Elizabeth Lane, Lydia Qualey, Mia McNally and Lilly McDonald. For the first time in three years, the Cougars start out their season with a full complement of players. The return of Libby, who missed her junior season due to a knee injury sustained during the 2022 soccer season, has coach McAvoy excited. “We are happy to have senior Shelby Libby returning after a major ACL and meniscus tear,” he said. “Her surgery and rehab has been long, but she is ready and excited to play. Her quickness and experience will benefit us for sure.” Hartsgrove, the only other senior, had a sensational junior season as she often carried the team with her ability to score.

Courtesy of Beth Somers

Members of the Katahdin girls basketball team for the 2023-24 season are, front from left, Natasha Annis, Hunter Hartsgrove, Shelby Libby, Mickenzie Landry and Ayanna Lester; middle, Lydia Qualey, Lily McDonald, Mia McNally and Elizabeth Lane; and back, coach Shaun McAvoy, Emily McNally, Raven Shields and Assistant Coach Craig Hartsgove. “She is an amazing athlete,” her this season.” earning substantial playing time grade class again this year, as the coach said. “Scoring her The sophomore group could a season ago. Katahdin could the team is able to use those 1000th point is within reach for be one to watch as well after also get a boost from its eighth- players due to its small size.

2023-2024 COUNTY HOOP REVIEW • DECEMBER 20, 2023 • 29

KATAHDIN BOYS • COUGARS Courtesy of Beth Somers

Courtesyofofthe Beth Somers Members 2023-24 Membersboys of thebasketball 2023-24 Katahdin Katahdin basketball teamboys are, front from frontJosiah from left,team Josh are, Martin, left, Josh Martin, Josiah Rodgerson, Calvin Rodgerson,Connor Calvin Richardson, Richardson, Connor Edwards and Sam Boone; Edwards SamMitchell, Boone; middle,and Chris middle, Chris Mitchell, Chandler Smith, Bryten Chandler Kain Smith, Bryten Hartsgrove, McNally Hartsgrove, Kain McNally and Justin Hurlbert; and Justin Hurlbert; and back, Coach Greg and back, Coach Greg Bivighouse, Matt Keim, Bivighouse, Matt Keim, Wesley Pipes, Julian Wesleyand Pipes, Julian Giguere Assistant Giguere Assistant Coach Craigand Hartsgrove. Coach Craig Hartsgrove. Absent is Kaden Delano. Absent is Kaden Delano.

Katahdin boys look to change playoff outcomes By Joseph Cyr By Joseph Special to The Cyr County Special to The County STACYVILLE — A STACYVILLE — of A young, but scrappy group young, but scrappy group of athletes will be at the forefront athletes will be at boys the forefront for the Katahdin basketfor the Katahdin boys basketball team this year. ball teaminthis Now hisyear. second season Now his second with the in Cougars, coachseason Greg with the Cougars, Greg Bivighouse feels coach this year’s Bivighouse feels this year’s team has just the right mixture team has justveterans the rightand mixture of returning newof returning veterans and newcomers to make for a rewardcomers for a rewarding timetoonmake the hardwood. ing“Itime on themost hardwood. coached of the boys coached the were boys in “I this group most whenofthey in this group when they were in fifth- and sixth-grade, so in fifthsixth-grade, so when theand position was open when the position was open I thought it would be fun to Icoach thought would he besaid. fun to themit again,” coach them again,” he said. Katahdin has made backKatahdin hasappearances made backto-back playoff at to-back playoff appearances at the Cross Insurance Center in the CrossbutInsurance Bangor, has been Center unable in to Bangor, but quarterfinal has been unable to get past the round. get the quarterfinal round. Lastpast season, the team finished Last the team13-5 finished with season, an impressive regwith an impressive 13-5 reg-

ular season record and was ular season was ranked sixth inrecord Class and D North. ranked sixth in Class D North. The Cougars had a first-round The had 60-39 a first-round bye, Cougars but then fell to No. bye, but then fell 60-39 to No. 3 Schenck in the quarterfinals. 3 Schenck in thealso quarterfinals. The Cougars lost three The Cougars also–lostGrady three talented players talented players – Grady Ritchie, Kyle McNally and Ritchie, Kyle toMcNally and Jeff Martin graduation. Jeff graduation. How Martin the teamto will replace How the teamremains will replace those veterans to be those veterans to be seen, but coach remains Bivighouse is seen, but coach Bivighouse is optimistic. optimistic. “I think the Katahdin boys “Ido think will wellthe thisKatahdin year,” he boys said. will do looking well this for year,” “I am us he tosaid. im“I am throughout looking forthe us season. to improve prove the season. This isthroughout a hard working group This is a hard working group and we work well together.” andMembers we work well together.” of the 2023-24 Members of the 2023-24 Cougars are senior Josiah RogCougars are senior Josiah Rogerson (guard); juniors Connor erson (guard); juniors Connor Edwards (guard), Josh Martin Edwards (guard), Josh(guard), Martin (guard), Sam Boone (guard), Sam Boone (guard), Chandler Smith (guard), Kain Chandler (guard),Kaden Kain McNally Smith (forward), McNally (forward), Kaden Delano (guard) and Wesley Delano (guard) and Wesley

Pipes (guard); sophomores Pipes sophomores Calvin (guard); Richardson (guard), Calvin Richardson (guard), Jacob Hurlburt (forward) and Jacob Hurlburt(forward); (forward) and and Matt Kleim Matt Kleim (forward); and freshmen Bryten Hartsgrove freshmen Bryten Hartsgrove (guard); Julian Giguere (guard) (guard); Julian Giguere (guard) and Chris Mitchell (forward). andThe Chris Mitchell Cougars will(forward). not be as Cougars be as bigThe as they have will beennot in previbig as they but havethe been in previous years, team could ous butthat the team makeyears, up for heightcould loss make up forteam that speed. height loss with greater with greaterwe team “Overall arespeed. not a very areall notcan a very tall“Overall team, butwethey hantall team, but they all can handle the ball well,” the coach dle ballshooting well,” the coach said.the “Our is coming said. “Our shooting is coming around as well. I think our dearound as well. I think our and defense will be a big change fense will be a big change and they are working as a team to they are working as a team to improve their scoring.” improve their scoring.” The coach added Class D Thewill coach added Class D North be very competitive North will be very competitive this year with Lee and Stearns this yearthe with Lee and Bangor Stearns joining mix, while joining the mix, while Bangor Christian, Southern Aroostook Christian, Southern and Schenck will be Aroostook among the and Schenck will be among the top teams to beat. top teams to beat.

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MADAWASKA GIRLS • OWLS Staff photo Chris Bouchard

The Madawaska girls basketball team is ready to compete in the upcoming season. Pictured in the back row, from left to right, are Ava Toussaint, Leilani Pierre, Lucy Hartvigsen, Aspen Schmeling, Reagan Schmeling, Abi Albert, Hieke Hof, and Morgan Hebert. In the front, from left to right, are Violet Sirois, Peyton Lavoie, Ainsley Migneault, Nini Conde-Silva, Payton Pelletier, Inori Wang, and May Shan.

Madawaska girls bring positive attitude to upcoming season By Chris Bouchard Staff Writer MADAWASKA — The Madawaska Girls basketball team improved a great deal throughout last year’s season, and Coach Sarah Gudeman is hoping to see this trend continue to the current season. Entering her second season as varsity coach, Gudeman has also coached rec leagues when she was in the military. “This is the only high school team that I have had the pleasure of coaching,” she said. She said last year’s team was fairly young, with many players only being in their second or third year of playing basketball. The Owls finished 3-15 and did not qualify for the playoffs. “Even though our record was not successful, the improvement we witnessed

over the season was huge,” the coach said. “The growing confidence we saw in our players as the season went on was truly heartwarming and why the season was a success in our eyes, as coaches.” The team also lost four seniors to graduation – Lilly Cox, Taylor Pelletier, Grace Robinson, and Mallory Corriveau. “I think we will see a lot of players step up and learn to play their own game,” Gudeman said. For 10 players on the team, this is their first year playing in varsity basketball: Ava Toussaint (guard), Lucy Hartvigsen (guard), Peyton Lavoie (guard), Aspen Schmeling (guard), Reagan Schmeling (guard), Inori Chi-Yueh Wang (guard), Hieke Hof (forward), Abi Albert (forward), Violet

Sirois (guard), and Ainsley Mgineault (guard). Four players on the team are in their second year: Dianiliz Conde-Silva (guard), May Shan (guard), Leilani Pierre (forward), and Morgan Hebert (forward). And Payton Pelletier (guard) has three years of experience on varsity. Gudeman said that she’s working to improve the skills of newer players while helping the returning players reach the next level. “We are only four practices in due to weather and Thanksgiving, so it’s hard to tell exactly what our strengths are going to be,” Gudeman said. “But I would say that their attitude is a significant strength. These kids just have fun. We laugh a lot, but they want to be better than they were yesterday.”

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MADAWASKA BOYS • OWLS Madawaska’s new varsity coach ready to surprise competition By Chris Bouchard Staff Writer MADAWASKA — Shawn Pelletier is bringing about a decade of coaching experience to his new role as head varsity coach for the boys basketball team. This year’s team consists mostly of younger players, but Pelletier said their unique play style may surprise some of the other teams on the schedule this season. Pelletier’s past experience includes coaching middle school boys basketball at Madawaska for the past four years, including this current year. He was also the boys junior varsity and assistant varsity coach last year. He has also coached Aroostook Youth Basketball for the past eight years, in addition to coaching two amateur athletic union (AAU) teams based in the St. John Valley for the past three years. And while the Owls varsity squad mostly consists of younger players, Pelletier said they bring a lot of experience to the table. “We have players that are willing to work hard and have a high basketball IQ,” he said. “A few of our players have been playing on AAU that

have traveled all over the state the last couple of years. Last year, we got to play against the Oceanside varsity team that had just lost in the state Class B final a few weeks earlier.” The 2023-24 Owls roster consists of four freshmen, four sophomores, two juniors and two seniors. The freshman players are guards Josh Querze, Aleck Gendreau and Aiden Gagnon and forward Carter Guerrette. The sophomore players consist of guards Bradyen Pelletier and Isaac Beaulieu and forwards Jeremiah Turner and Ryan Beaulieau. The junior players are forward Sam Thibeault and guard Carter Gagnon. And the seniors are forward Chris Boucher and guard Nick Poitras. Last year, the team was 10-8 and ended up as the No.10 seed in Class C North. They lost in a prelim game to seventh-seed George Stevens Academy. The Owls also lost four talented seniors last year to graduation. Pelletier said those athletes contributed to about 80 percent of last year’s scoring and 60 percent of their rebounding. “Those seniors made a

Staff photo Chris Bouchard

The Madawaska Boys team is prepared for the upcoming 2023-24 season. Pictured in the back row, from left to right, are Isaac Beaulieu, Jeremiah Turner, Brayden Pelletier, Carter Guerrette, Sam Thibeault, Coach Shawn Pelletier, Chris Boucher, Aleck Gendreau. Players pictured in the front are, from left, Ryan Beaulieu, Aiden Gagnon, Nick Poitras, Carter Gagnon, and Josh Querze. huge contribution to all than we have in the past,” think we can make it to and that is our goal going sports at Madawaska and he said. “I definitely the tournament in Bangor forward.” we thank them for their hard work and dedication,” Pelletier said. The coach is hoping to improve the team’s offensive and defensive skills this year, and said they’re going to need to bring their best every night in order to be competitive. Pelletier is optimistic that this hard work will pay off and that the boys will have a successful season. “I think we are going to surprise a lot of teams and play a different style

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PIHS GIRLS • WILDCATS Developing offense is a key to Wildcats’ success By Kevin Sjoberg

Special to The County

PRESQUE ISLE — Secondyear coach Krystal Flewelling is looking to develop scoring balance as the Presque Isle girls head into competition against some strong Big East Conference squads. With the graduation of Anna Jandreau, an all-conference second team selection, the Wildcats lost a bulk of their offense. Flewelling has a 10-player roster to draw from and said many of those players will need to become scoring threats as the season rolls along. “Offense was hard for us last year, and we are working on turning that around,” Flewelling said. She has tried different combinations during the preseason and was still working on developing a starting lineup, but 5-foot-10-inch sophomore Georganna Curtis is the top returning scorer and will again be counted on to provide points, while helping out in other areas. “She’ll be our primary ball handler and ﬂoor general,” Flewelling said. “She has a lot of grit and has the potential to be a serious offensive threat.” Senior guards Jorja Maynard and Karlyn Gilmour have been in the rotation the past two years and their responsibilities continue to grow. Maynard is one of the team leaders and provides tenacious defense and scoring from the out-

Staff Photo Paul Bagnall

Members of the 2023-2024 Presque Isle High School girls varsity basketball team are, front from left, Keira Tompkins, Karlyn Gilmour, Jorja Maynard, Carrlyn Buck, Rhianna Desjardins; and back, Emma Boone, Lenora Curtis, Emily Hallett, Addison Clairmont, Georganna Curtis, Marion Young, Olivia Locke, Acacia Horst, Coach Krystal Flewelling, and absent is Manager Maddy Waugh. side. Gilmour is another perimeter threat and scrappy defender. Sophomore Marion Young demonstrated during the preseason that she could be one of the top rebounders in the conference. Her size and back-to-the-basket moves give the Wildcats another scoring weapon. Standing six-feet, freshman Lenora Curtis is a presence underneath the basket and Flewelling said she

pairs well with Young. Lenora Curtis has the ability to rip down rebounds and ﬁnish with contact. Junior Addison Clairmont does a lot of the little things that make her a valuable player, including playing strong defense and hitting shots from the outside. Others looking to earn roles are sophomore guard Keira Tompkins, sophomore forward Rhianna

Desjardins, freshman forward Emily Hallett and freshman guard Carrlyn Buck. Olivia Locke, a junior, was a role player in 2022-23, but she was injured during soccer season and is not available to play basketball this winter. “I can tell that I have a highly motivated group of girls,” Flewelling said. “We know what we are

as a team, and we know we have weaknesses, but all we can do is put our best foot forward and be better than we were yesterday, while controlling the things we can control – attitude and effort.” The Wildcats’ managers are Acacia Horst and Maddy Waugh. Emma Boone returns as the assistant coach and Tyler St. Pierre joins the staff as the JV coach.

2023-2024 COUNTY HOOP REVIEW • DECEMBER 20, 2023 • 35

PIHS BOYS • WILDCATS ’Cat boys look to improve By Kevin Sjoberg

Special to The County

PRESQUE ISLE — The Presque Isle boys basketball team enters the 2023-24 campaign with a youthful roster and coach Dillon Kingsbury knows there will be a major adjustment period in store before his team can be considered a playoff contender. Kingsbury’s first year as the team’s head coach was a success a season ago. Presque Isle made a huge late-season push to qualify for the Class B North tournament as a seventh seed, with a 10-8 record. The Wildcats won their preliminary game against Bucksport before upsetting No. 2 Winslow in the quarterfinals. The team fell to eventual state champion Orono in the semifinals. But several key players are now gone from that squad. Malachi Cummings, a Big East Conference first team selection, graduated along with two other starters, Dawson Beaulieu and Jack Hallett, and key reserves Brayden Castonguay, Ben Turner and Michael Langley. Only five players return from last year’s

team, and only three of those saw significant playing time. Senior Jack Buck and junior Brent Greenlaw are the returning starters. Buck, a 6-foot,4-inch forward, will need to dominate as a rebounder and defender and will also need to produce offense from the post, according to Kingsbury. Greenlaw, a 6-2 guard, will be counted on to score from both the perimeter and on drives to the basket. Senior Wyatt Young is a 3-point weapon who will play a major role after serving as a backup a season ago. Senior Jack Boone and sophomore Eli Mosher are the other new starters. Two players from last year’s junior varsity team will be heavily counted on to provide key minutes. Sophomore Kason Bua has the potential to emerge into a starting role as a point guard, while classmate Carter Vigue also plays in the backcourt and is a heady player with a bright future. The five other players fighting for spots in the rotation are juniors Ben Willey, Dyllan Maple

Staff Photo Paul Bagnall

Members of the 2023-2024 Presque Isle boys varsity basketball team are, front from left, Wyatt Young, Alex Duprey Bodey McPherson, Carter Vigue, Kason Bua and Ben Willey; and back, Brent Greenlaw, Jack Buck, Eli Mosher, Jack Boone, Dyllan Maple and Head Coach Dillon Kingsbury. and Alex Duprey, sophomore Killian Deschaine and freshman Bodey McPherson. Deschaine and McPherson will split time on the JV team. “Our emphasis early on has been centered around getting the younger guys up to speed,” Kingsbury said. “We play in a conference that has a lot of veteran teams coming back, so we just need to concentrate on improving each and every day on the little things and not worry about our win-loss record during the ﬁrst part of the year.” The coach said Ellsworth and Orono,

with Big East player of the year candidates Chance Mercier and Pierce Walston, should be at the top of the division along with rival Caribou. He hopes his team will be somewhere in the mix at the end of the year. “We’ll have an adjustment period,” Kingsbury added. “We’ll need to get acclimated to the pace and physicality of Class B North if we are to have any success this season.” Jonah Hudson and JV coach Michael Boone are Kingsbury’s assistants. Summer Sponberg and Alyssa Blade are back as the team managers.

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SACS GIRLS • WARRIORS SACS girls are once again the gold standard Courtesy of Joseph Cyr

Members of the 202324 Southern Aroostook girls basketball team are, front from left, Jazmyn Ellingwood, Madison Shields, Hannah McGary, Emmalee Landry and Cami Shields; and back, Coach Cliff Urquhart, Manager Savannah Anderson, Hope Curry, Olivia Ellingwood, Libby Anderson, Ally Shields, Alexa Hersey, Emma Stubbs, Statistician Mackenzie Lilley and Manager Rylee Kuliga.

By Joseph Cyr Special to The County DYER BROOK — What remains to be said about the Southern Aroostook girls basketball team that has not already been mentioned countless times? Every cliché for excellence that one could come up with has already been bestowed on the Warrior girls – and rightfully so. The squad has an impressive collection of state championship gold balls in its trophy case, but remains hungry for more. The challenge for veteran coach Cliff Urquhart, who is embarking on his 13th season with the Warriors, is both simple and complex – finding a way to stay on top. “I think we can be competitive in our division,” coach Urquhart said. “I know we’re going to go out every night and compete. We would really like to make the tournament and see what we can do.” Last year, the Southern Aroostook girls found themselves in familiar territory, hoisting a Class D gold ball

for the second straight season and fourth time in the past six years. The Warriors finished 15-3 in the regular season, with its only losses coming to Class C contenders Penobscot Valley (twice) and Hodgdon. In the Class D North playoffs, the top-seeded Warriors were as dominant as ever, dismantling No. 8 Ashland, 62-12 in the quarterfinals; beating No. 4 Deer Isle-Stonington, 55-26; and besting No. 2 Wisdom, 53-49 in the regional championships. In the state game, the Warriors matched up with Seacoast Christian Academy, with SA picking up a 68-30 victory. It marked the second straight season that the Warriors faced Seacoast Christian in the state championship – with SA winning both. If the team is to continue its incredible streak of success, it will likely once again focus on a fast-paced offense and smothering defense. “I think we’ve been a very good half court, man-to-man defensive team the past several years,” the coach said. “I think we do

a great job getting out in transition and running the floor to get easy buckets. We’re going to look to continue doing both those things this season.” But the Warriors must do that without last season’s most valuable player – Madison Russell – an All State and Tournament MVP who graduated and is now playing collegiate basketball at St. Joseph’s College in Standish. SA also lost Callie Russell, the team’s center and a key rebounder, to graduation. This year’s Warriors will once again have an impressive collection of both seasoned veterans and talented newcomers eager to make their mark. Members of the 2023-24 squad are freshmen Emma Stubbs (forward), Jazmyn Ellingwood (guard) and Alexa Hersey (guard); sophomores Hannah McGary (guard) and Ally Shields (guard/forward); juniors Olivia Ellingwood (guard/forward), Hope Curry (forward) and Libby Anderson (center). The talented group of seniors are Emmalee Landry (forward), Madison Shields (guard) and Cami Shields (guard). Both Cami and Madison Shields scored the 1,000th point for their high school careers last season and even more will be expected of them this year. Landry came on strong at the end of last season. Although only a sophomore, the coach said Ally Shields has the potential for a breakout season. Others looking to make their marks this year are Anderson, McGary and Ellingwood. Curry is new to the club, transferring to Southern Aroostook from Hermon and coming off a two-year hiatus from basketball.

2023-2024 COUNTY HOOP REVIEW • DECEMBER 20, 2023 • 39

SACS BOYS • WARRIORS Southern Aroostook Boys look to continue winning ways By Joseph Cyr Special to The County DYER BROOK — After winning back-to-back state championships, it is pretty much a certainty that the Southern Aroostook varsity boys are no longer flying under anyone’s radar. But that will not stop veteran coach Brett Russell from having his team ready to face whatever the opposition throws at them this season. Now in his fifth season at the helm of the Warriors, Russell said the changes from year to year is what he enjoys. “The kids make coaching completely enjoyable and completely worth it,” he said. “It’s awesome to watch the kids grow in an athletic sense as well as in life.” Southern Aroostook finished as undefeated state champs in 2022-23, boasting a 22-0 overall record. The Warriors rolled through the postseason, besting a number of much-larger schools along the way. SA beat No. 8 Jonesport-Beals, 64-24, in the quarterfinals; beat No. 4 Bangor Christian, 41-28, in the semifinals; and rolled past No. 2 Machias, 78-46, in the Class D North championship. In the state D finale, Southern Aroostook had no trouble defeating southern-champ Forest Hills, 8356, to finish undefeated and back-to-back state champs. However, several key components of last year’s dominating squad graduated, including Hunter Burpee, Graham Siltz, Drake Weston, AJ Lewis, Buddy Porter and AJ Chambers. That group was responsible for the majority of the team’s offense, which means new players will have to step up this season. “We have lots of important people to replace from

Courtesy of Joseph Cyr

Members of the 2023-24 Southern Aroostook boys basketball team are front, from left, Ethan Collier, Dylan Burpee, Brennan Burpee, Lincoln Hardy and Trafton Russell; and back, Manager Brooke Ivey, Manager Brooke Shields, Coach Brett Russell, Daniel Kuindersma, Richard Chambers, Kason Lawlor, Connor Lane, Dillan Bishop, JV Coach Camden Porter and Manager. Rylee Webb. last year,” the coach said. “We lost two of our starting guards (Buddy Porter and Drake Weston) and our big men (Graham Siltz and Hunter Burpee). We will have lots to work on with this much turnover.” Members of the 2023-24 Southern Aroostook squad are seniors Dylan Burpee (guard/forward) and Brennan Burpee (forward); juniors Trafton Russell (guard), Ethan Collier (guard/forward) and Connor Lane (forward); and sophomores Lincoln Hardy (guard), Kason Lawlor (center), Dillan Bishop (guard), Richard Chambers (forward) and Daniel Kuindersma (forward). “Our outlook for this season is to grow and become better each and every

game,” coach Russell said. “We have a couple of returning starters to go along with a bunch of young talent that will need some playing time to grow and become better equipped to handle the pressure of playing varsity ball.” The one area where the team should continue to thrive is on defense. The coach said he plans to implement the same smothering style of defense that has yielded numerous turnovers in recent years. “Our strength’s should be on the defensive side of the ball,” he said. “We also should be a fairly good offensive team. We hope to become the best defensive minded team we can. We will look to improve upon rebounding as we are not as big as we’ve been in the past.”

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VAN BUREN GIRLS • CRUSADERS Staff Photo Paul Bagnall Staff Photo Paul Bagnall

Members of the 2023-2024 Members of the 2023-2024 Van Buren girls varsity Van Buren girls varsity basketball team basketball team are, front from are, front from left,left, Manager Madyson Caron, Manager Madyson Caron, Zoey Ward, Mallory Zoey Ward, Mallory Beaulieu, Audrey Caron, Beaulieu, Audrey Caron, Kayden Bouchard Kayden Bouchard Manager Hailey andand Manager Hailey Simone; back, Head Simone; andand back, Head Coach Edgecomb, Coach JayJay Edgecomb, Gabriella Berube, Ashlyn Gabriella Berube, Ashlyn Bouchard, Kaitlyn Caron, Bouchard, Kaitlyn Caron, Rylie Bouchard, Shanoa Rylie Bouchard, Shanoa Trantham, Natalie Beaulieu Trantham, Natalie Beaulieu Emma Parent. andand Emma Parent.

Crusader Crusaderdefense defensekey key for for development developmentin inthe the Class Class DDseason season

By being ByPaul PaulBagnall Bagnall beingpart partofofa ateam,” team,”when whenasked askedabout aboutthethe Staff Writer Edgecomb said. team’s strengths. Staff Writer Edgecomb said. team’s strengths. VAN teams playing in in VAN BUREN BUREN——The The Last Lastyear, year,thetheCrusadCrusad- Other Other teams playing Van Buren girls basketers had a regular season the Class D basketball Van Buren girls basketers had a regular season the Class D basketball ball 3-15 and diddid notnotseason ballteam teamwill willbebebringbring- record recordofof 3-15 and seasonmight mightoverlook overlook ing back everyone who make it to the playoffs, but the Crusaders’ ing back everyone who make it to the playoffs, but the Crusaders’scrappiscrappiplayed thetheness playedlast lastyear, year,asaswell well that thatis issomething somethingthat that nessonondefense, defense,EdgeEdgeasasa acouple of newcomers new head coach hopes to comb said. couple of newcomers new head coach hopes to comb said. totothe this year. The Cru2023theteam, team,for foranother another change change this year. The Cru- Members Membersof ofthethe 20232024 Crusaders team areare run in the Class D North saders will try to improve run in the Class D North saders will try to improve 2024 Crusaders team basketball upon Beaulieu basketballseason. season. uponlast lastyear, year,with withteam teamseniors seniorsMallory Mallory Beaulieu This is Head Coach Jay defense being key to the and Audrey Caron, with This is Head Coach Jay defense being key to the and Audrey Caron, with Edgecomb’s first year with varsity girls’ development juniors Gabriella BeruEdgecomb’s with asvarsity girls’ development Gabriella Beruthe Van Buren first girlsyear varsity the upcoming basket- be.juniors Sophomores Kayden the Van Buren varsity as season the upcoming be. Sophomores Kayden basketball team, girls but he has ball progresses.basket-Bouchard and Shanoa basketball team,ofbut he has ball Bouchard Shanoa two prior years experi“It’sseason early progresses. in the year Trantham alongand with freshtwo prior years of experi“It’s early in the year Trantham along with freshence coaching in SAD24 and we have not had any men Ashlyn Bouchard, Naence 15 coaching in SAD24 games and we have not had anytalie men Ashlyn Bouchard, about years ago. or scrimmages yet, Beaulieu, and KaitlynNaabout 15 years ago. or scrimmages yet,Caron. talie Beaulieu, and Kaitlyn “I enjoy the challenge sogames I am holding judgment Eighth graders Ryenjoy the challenge so I we am play, holding Eighth graders Bouchard. Emma Par-Ryof “Ideveloping players until butjudgment I can lieCaron. of fine developing players say until play, I canent, lie and Bouchard. Emma Parinto young adults thewe kids are but enthuZoey Ward will into enjoy fine playing young adults say theEdgecomb kids are enthuent, and who and siastic,” said also play on Zoey varsity.Ward will who enjoy playing and siastic,” Edgecomb said also play on varsity.

2023-2024 COUNTY HOOP REVIEW • DECEMBER 20, 2023 • 41

VAN BUREN BOYS • CRUSADERS StaffStaff Photo Paul Bagnall Photo Paul Bagnall

Members of the 2023-2024 Members of the 2023-2024 VanVan Buren boys varsity Buren boys varsity basketball team are, front basketball team are, front from left,left, Evan Hastings, from Evan Hastings, Gavin Gagnon, Alex Gavin Gagnon, Alex Violette, IanIan Willis, andand Violette, Willis, Jaimen Chasse; back are,are, Jaimen Chasse; back Head Coach Steve Lapierre, Head Coach Steve Lapierre, Aidan Morrow, Kye Aidan Morrow, Kye Kurtyka, Isaac Rioux, Isaac Kurtyka, Isaac Rioux, Isaac Bresett, Xavier Deschaine, Bresett, Xavier Deschaine, Delton Resto, andand Dawsyn Delton Resto, Dawsyn Searles. Absent from thethe Searles. Absent from photo is Addion Davis. photo is Addion Davis.

YoungCrusader Crusader boys boys Young aimto tobe becompetitive competitive aim ClassDDseason season ininClass

Paul Bagnall During regular 2022- areareIsaac IsaacRioux, Rioux,Dawsyn Dawsyn By By Paul Bagnall During thethe regular 2022Staff Writer 2023 season the Crusaders Searles, and Addion Davis. Staff Writer 2023 season the Crusaders Searles, and Addion Davis. VAN BUREN Thewere were3-15, 3-15,butbutstill stillmanman- Coach CoachLapierre Lapierrewill willbebe VAN BUREN —— The Buren Crusader boysaged aged to qualify post- drawing drawingononhis hiscoaching coaching VanVan Buren Crusader boys to qualify forfor thethe postvarsitybasketball basketballteam teamseason experienceofof4343years yearsfor for season No. seed. experience varsity as as thethe No. 1010 seed. will be starting off the Van Buren squared off both girls and boys varsiwill be starting off the Van Buren squared off both girls and boys varsi2023-2024 Class D Northagainst againstNo. No.7 7Wisdom Wisdomin in tytybasketball basketballtotowatch watchhis his 2023-2024 Class D North season with a bundle of the preliminary round and team grow and learn the season with a bundle of the preliminary round and team grow and learn the fresh, new faces. fell, 59-25 Pioneers. game gamewhile whileacquiring acquiringlife life fresh, new faces. fell, 59-25 to to thethe Pioneers. “I always liked to see experiences along the way. Only one returning playOnly one returning play“I always liked to see experiences along the way. er has significant play-thetheimprovement improvementin inthethe The Thereturning returningCrusaders Crusaders er has anyany significant playing time according to Head players as they start to are seniors Aidan Morrow, ingCoach time according to Headbutplayers as game,” they start to areXavier seniorsDeschaine, Aidan Morrow, Steve Lapierre, learn the Lapierre Isaac Coach Steve to Lapierre, but learn the“For game,” Isaac he hopes see improvesaid. me, Lapierre it’s about Xavier Bresett,Deschaine, and sophomore he ment hopesfrom to see improve“Forthese me, kids it’s learn about to Bresett, and sophomore the new playerssaid. seeing Ian Willis. ment from thegame. new players seeing kids to Ian Willis. with every play these together andlearn working New to the Crusaders with every game.we had a lowplay together and working New to the Crusaders “Last year, towards a common goal.” is junior Jaimen Chasse. “Last year, had aand lowthistowards a common goal.”se- is The junior Jaimen Chasse. number of we players There will be three sophomores are Kye number players will the be Van three Buren se- The sophomores are Kye year of Van Burenand is this keep- There niors on Kurtyka and Delton ResyearingVan the Vanteam Buren Resboysonbasketball play- Kurtyka to and and the Delton freshmen are an Buren interest isin keepbasket-niors ingball an interest in basketteam and Violette, the freshmen are going through highboys ingbasketball for the first timeplayin the toAlex Evan Hastballschool,” going Lapierre through said. high ingupcoming for the firstseason. time in the Violette, Evan HastThey Alex ings, and Gavin Gagnon. school,” Lapierre said. upcoming season. They ings, and Gavin Gagnon.

42 • 2023-2024 COUNTY HOOP REVIEW • DECEMBER 20, 2023

WASHBURN GIRLS • BEAVERS Beavers want to continue making positive strides By Kevin Sjoberg

Special to The County

WASHBURN — With four victories last year, the Washburn girls basketball team was able to increase its win total from the previous season. Second-year coach Crystal Hobbs is hoping for continued improvement from her squad. “I’m looking forward to our schedule,” Hobbs said. “I believe we have the ability to stick with the teams in our division. The girls have goals they want to achieve collectively as a team and are making every effort to make big improvements on the season.” The Beavers have only eight players on the roster to begin the campaign, so Hobbs spent most of the preseason focusing on conditioning. Hobbs is planning on utilizing a starting ﬁve consisting entirely of the returning players from last year. Senior Chelsea Hobbs and junior Madelyn Johnston will have the ball in their hands a majority of the time. They have the most varsity experience as both have been on the team since their eighth-grade season.

Staff Photo Paul Bagnall

Members of the 2023-2024 Washburn High School girls varsity basketball team are, front from left, Chelsea Hobbs, Jaici Rosi-Carney, Jocelyn Snyder, and Ashlynn Richards; and back, Coach Crystal Hobbs, Haily Campbell, Logan Curtis, Isabelle Allen, Madelyn Johnston, and Manager Madison Plummer. “Both girls have the abil- open man and have been season to develop this furAlthough their presence ity to drive and to ﬁnd an working hard in the pre- ther,” said coach Hobbs. on the court is important,

Hobbs knows more balance is needed for the team to experience success. “We can’t rely on just one or two people to do it all,” she added. “Everyone has to contribute on both ends of the court.” Isabelle Allen, a junior, is considered a strong defender and feisty rebounder. Junior Logan Curtis is an inside presence but can also score from outside. The ﬁfth starter is sophomore Jaici Rosi-Carney, who has speed and quickness and will be an asset defensively. Haily Campbell, Ashlyn Richards and Jocelyn Snyder are freshmen on the team. Hobbs plans to add some eighth-graders to the team once the middle school season is over. “The girls have started the season off with great attitudes and are ready to work,” said the coach. “It’s been a lot of conditioning and learning, but they have all been eager and have given everything they have. “Last year was a good learning experience for myself and the girls,” she added. “I’m conﬁdent that they will show more growth this year. I’m excited to see where the season takes us.”

2023-2024 COUNTY HOOP REVIEW • DECEMBER 20, 2023 • 43

WASHBURN BOYS • BEAVERS Cummings looks to make mark on program By Kevin Sjoberg

Special to The County

WASHBURN — The Wasburn boys basketball team has struggled to compete in the Class D ranks in recent years, but new coach Terry Cummings is hoping to help turn things around. “The Washburn job was of interest to me because I knew they had a group of young men that wanted to get better,” Cummings said. “They are really excited and have really bought into what we are trying to accomplish within the program.” Last season, Washburn ﬁnished with a 2-16 record in the Class D North division. Cummings, who took last season off after lengthy coaching stints at Greater Houlton Christian Academy and Presque Isle High School, plus another at the University of Maine at Presque Isle, is looking forward to getting back to work on the sidelines. “We are very young with very little varsity experience, but we will work extremely hard on both ends of the ﬂoor,” he said. “We will play an uptempo style and apply lots of pressure on the defensive end. “The guys have been great and have really bought into the kind of culture that we are trying to develop in Washburn,” he added. Roegen Rosi-Carney is the lone senior and should be an elite defender for the Beavers. The roster has just two juniors in Hunter Campbell and Jack Tate. Campbell has demonstrated improvement in early-season workouts and Tate possesses a great attitude and work ethic. Garrett Plourde leads the eight-member sophomore group. Plourde started many games last year and his

Staff Photo Paul Bagnall

Members of the Washburn High School boys varsity basketball team for 2023-24 are, front from left, Brayden Worsley, Gage Espling, Avery Nadeau, Roegen Rosi-Carney, Jack Tate, Colt Curtis and Hunter Campbell; and back, Coach Terry Cummings, Ashton Richards, Anthony Churchill, Sean Silver, Mitchell Hewitt, Vincent Marshall, Isaac Sines, Gerrett Plourde, Assistant Coach Greg Whitaker and Assistant Coach Justin Staples. Absent is Assistant Coach Dave Whitaker. athleticism and versatility could make him one of the better players in Class D, according to Cummings. Five other sophomores should ﬁgure into the rotation. Isaac Sines has been a pleasant surprise for Cummings early on and is a hard worker who should be one of Washburn’s top rebounders. Brayden Worsley will play one of the guard positions and is a natural talent who shows a strong desire to improve. Gage Espling is another hard worker who should be a solid contributor, while Colt Curtis could be in for a breakout year with his ability to score. Mitchell Hewitt is a workhorse who does all the little things every team needs. Two freshmen who should play vital roles for the Bea-

vers are Avery Nadeau, a talented guard with multiple skills, and Sean Silver, who learns things quickly and shows great promise. Sophomores Vincent Marshall and Anthony Churchill and freshman Ashton Richards round out the squad and will beneﬁt from playing time at the junior varsity level. Cummings has brought in two of his assistants from his time at Presque Isle High School – Dave and Greg Whitaker. They join JV coach Justin Staples on the coaching staff. “We are just trying to be better than we were yesterday,” Cummings said. “Our practices have been very intense and the guys have come in focused and determined. We are teaching them what it takes to win.”

44 • 2023-2024 COUNTY HOOP REVIEW • DECEMBER 20, 2023

WISDOM GIRLS • PIONEERS

Contributed photo

Member of the Wisdom girls varsity basketball team for the 2023-24 season are, from left, Assistant Coach Tracy Guerrette, Madisyn Cyr, Ava Lerman, Abbie Cormier, Lilly Roy, Kayleigh Michaud, Kelsie Daigle, Emma Soucy and Coach Scott Pelletier.

Wisdom girls basketball team focusing on daily improvement By Chris Bouchard Staff Writer ST. AGATHA — The Wisdom girls basketball team may only have

seven players on the roster this year, but Coach Scott Pelletier says their strength lies in the chemistry they have with

each other. It is Pelletier’s fifth consecutive year coaching the Wisdom girls. Before that, he coached

the Wisdom boys basketball team from 2007 to 2011. He then coached the Fort Kent boys from 2011 to 2013, moved to the Wisdom girls from 2014 to 2016, and the Wisdom boys from 2016 to 2017. He then moved back to coaching the Wisdom girls in 2019, where he continues to coach today. Last year, the Pioneers finished with a record of 20-1 overall record and made it all the way to the Class D North girls regional championship. The Pioneers fell to eventual state-champ Southern Aroostook, 53-49 in a back-and-forth contest.

Unfortunately, the team lost much of the offensive firepower from that team. The team lost four senior players to graduation last year, Olivia Ouellette, Abbie Lerman, Kylie Pelletier and Alexis Silva. This year, Pelletier said he wants the team to focus on improving each day and to enjoy the process. The team consists of freshman players Madisyn Cyr (guard), and Emma Soucy (guard). There are three sophomores on the team: Ava Lerman (guard), Kayleigh Michaud (forward), and Kelsie

Daigle (forward). The team’s two senior players are Lilly Roy (guard/captain), and Abbie Cormier (center). The team’s two managers are Brooke Franck and Riley Guerrette. Tracy Guerrette is the team’s assistant coach. Though the team is fairly small, Pelletier said their chemistry and dedication will be a great asset this season. “This year we may only have seven on the roster,” he said, “but one of our greatest strengths will be team chemistry. I am blessed to have a team that works hard and plays for each other.”

2023-2024 COUNTY HOOP REVIEW • DECEMBER 20, 2023 • 45

WISDOM BOYS • PIONEERS Staff photo Chris Bouchard

Members of the Wisdom boys basketball team for the 2023-24 season are, from left, Landon Picard, Camden Pelletier, Christian Hayes, Sam Tardif, Joshua Theriault, Tanner Marquis and Cayden Hargrove.

Wisdom Boys working to play at a higher level By Chris Bouchard Staff Writer ST. AGATHA — The Wisdom boys basketball team has a younger squad this year, but they are dedicated to working together and playing at a higher level throughout the upcoming season. Coach Nathan Boynton, who has coached Wisdom boys varsity basketball for four years, said this team will be “quick and scrappy.” Boynton has also coached varsity baseball at Wisdom, as well as coaching middle school boys and girls basketball in 2016. He said the team lost four out of their five starters last year. Three graduated and one transferred. The current team consists of one eighth grader, two freshmen, one sopho-

more, and three juniors. Eighth-grader Cayden Hargrove will be on the team as a guard. Freshman Tanner Marquis will play as both a guard and forward and freshman Jushoa Theriault will play as a forward. Sam Tardif, a sophomore, will play as a guard and forward. Junior students Camden Pelletier, Landon Picard, and Christian Hayes will respectively be playing as guard, guard/forward, and guard this year. “This will be a bit of a learning and growing year for us,” said Boynton. “We have a very young team, though I expect we may surprise a few people late in the season.” Last season, the team finished 10-8 and 7th place in Class D North. They hosted a

prelim game and beat No. 10 Van Buren, 59-25, earning a trip to Bangor. The Pioneers lost to No. 2 Machias, 73-50, during the quarterfinals. Coach Boynton said he is hoping the team’s scrappy nature will work to its advantage. “They’ll look to cause chaos and create turnovers on defense, which will hopefully lead to some easy baskets on offense,” he said. Boynton hopes the hard work and training will pay off as the season progresses. “This is a very young team, so just learning how to play together and at a high level will be the ultimate goal for this season,” he said. “We’ll need to work on rebounding and defense and limiting our opponents to one shot per possession.”

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48 • 2023-2024 COUNTY HOOP REVIEW • DECEMBER 20, 2023