Valley News Fall Sports Guide 2023

FALL SPORTS GUIDE

FALL SPORTS GUIDE

VALLEY NEWS PHOTOGRAPHS

Top: LebanonHigh’s TylerKelly, atransfer fromSunapee, breaks away from the Hanoverdefense during the teams’ preseason scrimmage in Hanover.Middle left: Mascoma High’s GraceClifford, left,watches aLin-Wood opponent head the ball during the teams’scrimmage in West Canaan.Middle right:Willow, aChihuahua-Pug mixwho belongs toStevens High assistant fieldhockey coach Elyse Scott, interacts with a Cardinals player during a practice in Claremont. Aboveleft: Tanner Moulton, a member ofthe Mascoma bassfishing team,displays one of the bass caught by him and teammate Peyton Sargent during the 2022 NHIAA state bass fishing championship Lebanon.Thetournamentwas heldonMascomaLake.

Above right:Stevens Highsenior AidenBarry listensto headcoach JoshDuford duringpractice atMonadnock Park. Left:Hanover setter LauraSchaner bumpsthe ball during agame againstManchester HighSchool Westat Hanover High School in Hanover last month.

: Soccer, football, field hockey, cross country, golf, volleyball, bass fishing

GIRLS SOCCER

HANOVER

Coach: Doug Kennedy (16)

League: NHIAA Division I

Last Year: 8-9

Returnees: Seniors— Sophie Wise (M), Emma Campfield (M), Maeve Lee (F),Bella Hunt (F), Syd McLaughlin(F), MiaBagnato (F), Elena Mierke (D), Kiran Park (D); Juniors —Nora Bradley(M); SadieRoss (G);Ali Daigle (D); ReeseHamlin (D); Dahlia Fuld (D);Sophomore — Cosi Torresani (F).

Newcomers: Seniors —Nina Marshall (M),Erin Kirkpatrick (D); Juniors —Campbell Madden (M). Freshmen: Grace Stewart(M); LilyTine (G),Malia Pratt (F), Joanna Bujarski (D).

Analysis: Will eight returning seniors cancel outthe graduation lossof sevenothers? Kennedy cites Hanover’s strengths as its collective work ethicand abilityto playat ahigh level. Consistencyand whether the Bears cansteadily improve remainquestion marks.Thisis Hanover’s third season playing a full DivisionI schedule andit’sa combined 13-21-2 the past two campaigns.

HARTFORD

Coach: Jeff Acker (18)

Last year: 1-14

League: Vermont Division II

Returnees: Senior —Dallas Kelley(D). Juniors—Morgan Curtis (D), Nicola Husmann (M), Harper Fallon(G). Sophomores: Tallulah Abbey (D).

Newcomers: Sophomores — Rowan Dumont (D), Michaela Anderson (F), Serenitee Martel (F). Freshmen —Paisley Danaher (G), Riley Martin (M), Aislyn Emerson (M), Jasmine Stocker (D), KathrynSummarsell (D), SamanthaFraser (M),Paeton Griswold (F), Sylvia Johnson (F), Mackenzy Carrier (F).

Analysis: “Hartford’s youth and lack of experience will allow plentyof opportunitiesfor avery talented ninth-gradeclass to shine,”Ackersaid. However,the Hurricanes are 10-30-1 the past three years.Five playersgraduated earlier thisyear and more than halfa dozenothers quit, leaving one seniorand three juniors. Thereare only18 players in the program,which for the first timein recentmemory, has no junior varsity squad. Sophomore Braelyn Park, whom Acker described as the program’s rising star prior tolast season, is among those who elected not to return,and sophomoreSadie Mullenis outforthe seasona knee injurysuffered during spring lacrosse.

LEBANON

Coach: Breck Taber (8)

Last year: 8-8

League: NHIAA Division II

Returnees: Seniors— Phoebe Ballard(F), SydneyDeshane(M), NoraFalcone(B), Rayna Graber (M), Isabelle Hamilton(M), MadisonJewell (D), Sophie Longacre (M), AbigailRipley (F);Sophomores— SaraForman (M),Annelies Hanna (M),Marianna Utell(M), Brooke Walker (M).

Newcomers: Juniors —Nina Ellingson(B), LucyEshbaugh (B), Laura Hines (M), Savannah Lindsley (F),Sage Murray(B).; Sophomores —Maezie Angles (G), Charlie Hayward (B), Audrey Newton(M/F), Peyton Rutherford (B).

Analysis: The Raidersreturn six startersbut willfeature freshmanAngles ingoal.Taber saidhis teamcould startas many as sixsophomores. “We needtobe abletocapitalizeon scoring opportunitiesand work as a cohesive unit, both on the attack and defensively,”he said.

MASCOMA

Coach: Mark Rockwood (2)

Last Year: 3-14

League: NHIAA Division III

Returnees: Seniors —Emily Seiler (F), KamdynAldrich (D), NataleePettersen (G);Juniors —Braelyn Stone (D), Cora Peters(D), EmilyBrewster(D), Jenny Lutz(D); Sophomores— GraceClifford (D),Sonya Roberts (F).

Newcomers: Seniors — Alexis Patterson (M), Izzy Adams(M), SophiaTaylor(D); Junior —Andrea Fernandez (M);Sophomore —Zofia Adams (F); Freshmen —Bella Davis (D), ClaraMarx (D),Halia Sethi (F), Karley Hollis (D). Molly Gray (F).

Analysis: Rockwood exhorts thatthe youngprogram“has turnedaroundin justoneyear”,

citing an increasefrom 13 players to 20 and the return of six starters. “The futureis looking bright,”hesaid. Thereturnof Pettersen from apreseason concussioncouldbe afactor,given that the program has no experienced goalkeepers. Fernandez is a Spanish exchange student.

NE WPORT

Coach: Gary McCall (5)

Last year: 3-13

League: NHIAA Division III

Returnees: Seniors —Emma O’Connor (D), Lauren Brewer (F), Adrianna Coleman(M); Juniors —Leila Trott (D), Torrence Williams (F),Cassie Sanborn(F/ M), Cheyenne Hannum (D), Skylar Nelson(G); Sophomores— Brooklyn Ranney(F), Makayla Cossingham (M),Callie Dixon (D

Newcomers: Sophomores — Aubrey Curtis (M), Lennox LaRochelle(D); Freshmen— Aubrie Gosselin (M), Paige Hall (M),Glory Parker(G),Jesenya Santana (D),Abigal Tenney(M), Allidia Urista (D/M).

Analysis: Newport movedup to Division III last season and the next step is to be consistently competitive at that level. “We can certainlyimprove uponlast year’s win total,”McCall said.

OXBOW

Coach: Shannon Gould (2)

Last year: 3-7-8

League: Vermont Division III

Returnees: Seniors —Hadlee Allen(M), LillyDeGoosh(M/F), Hazel Fahey (D);Juniors — Maggi Ellsworth (D), Caleigh Bean(F). Sophomores—Natalee Spear (D),Tessa Cook (D), Abby Peavey (F/M).

Newcomers: Sophomore — Ainsley Smith (M); Freshman — Aneta Morse (M), Addison

Marsh(G), MackenziePearl(F), MyaClogston (M/D),Annabelle Smith (D),Brianna Marsh(F), Kenady Pinson (D).

Analysis: Oxbow reachedthe state finals in 2007, 2011 and 2013 butlost eachtime.The Olympians made the semifinals in 2018 but haven’t escaped the firstround since.Gould, oncea standoutplayer anda coachat Lebanon High, must mesh seven returning starters with eight newcomers.

RIVENDELL

Coach: Tim Goodwin (15)

League: Vermont Division IV

Last year: 5-11

Returnees: Seniors — ColleenUnderhill (D),Elisia Sonsalla (M), LaurenSmith (M), Lexa Smith (D); Juniors — Shaylee Carter (M), Erin Ricker (M); Sophomores —Allie Vogelien (M), HarperTraendly (F), KokiTomlinson (D),Lindsey O’Hearn(M), MiaCurrier(F), Stella Star Worcester (D), Wayah Cook (G).

Newcomers: Juniors — Klara Boennen(D), Emily Oquendo(M). Freshmen—Lily Murray (F), Lyza Taylor (M), Autumn Powers (M),Sarah Champagne (M).

Analysis: Last season was the Raptors’first losing season since 2003 andunder Goodwin, who’s 123-54-12.“We havea hard schedule against a lot of larger schools,”Goowinsaid. “This group will be exciting to watch as theybecome united,brave,and play with freedom.”

SHARON

Coach: Ben Diller (1)

Last year: 3-12

League: Vermont Division IV

Returnees: Seniors —Anna Gnodde (M/F), Miriam

Star (M/F), KelseyBogie (F/M), Shannon O’Donnell (D); Juniors —Heidi Hewes(G), Ruth Wilmott (D),Ashlyn Osgood(D), Rebecca Osgood (M/F), McKayla Stanley (M/F), Elizabeth Waterman(M); Sophomores— Natalie Perry (M/F).

Newcomers: Juniors — Hanae Debo (M/F), Grace Elmer (D);Sophomores —Kayla Downing (D),Aylhea LaBadie (M/F), ReeceKenney(M/F). Freshmen —Elizabeth Brown (M/F), GabbyHayes (M/F),Aislin Peters (M/D), Sarah Marshia (D), Leah Crossett (D).

Analysis: The Panthers graduated four seniors,had seven playersdecidenot toreturnand lost sixth-yearcoach Dave Williams, who went 6-23-1 during his last two campaigns after winning state crowns during first three. Perry describes himself as a first-year soccer coach with previous basketballcoaching experience. “My expectation is that we learn to play fundamentally sound soccer…and create a winning culture,”he said.

WHITE RIVER VALLEY

Coach: Kim Prestridge (5)

Last year: 11-3-2

League: Vermont Division III

Returnees: Seniors — Amara Calhum-Flowers(M), TannerDrury (D),SadieKinsley (D), Anita Miller (D), Anna Stratton (M); Junior —Norah Harwood (F); Sophomores—Cassie Armstrong (M), Addison Isham (D),Ella LaFromboise(G/F), MackenzieVesper (F),Imari Taylor(G/F), LoganScott(M), Sarah Rule(M), IzzyBarnaby (F),Julia Bowen(F),Olivia Tuller (F).

Newcomers: Sophomore — Rhianna Young (G/F); Freshmen —Lucy Marcroft-Rikert (M), Bell Rouleau (F).

Analysis: WRV graduated top scorer Jillian Barry, but retains plentyofscoring powerinCalhum-Flowers, Armstrong,Vesper, and Harwood. The Wildcats will continuetheir soliddefense, led by Druryand Kinsley. The Wildcats roster includes numerous members ofthe school’s back-to-back girls track state title team.

WINDSOR

Coaches: Jen Rupp,Wendy Moody (1)

Last year: 11-5

League: Vermont Division III

Gurchumelia(M); Juniors— MaCallister Gray(D), Abby Chase(G), MaddyMintz(F), Avry Loftus (F),Elsa Skarsten (M); Sophomores —Lucy Proulx (D/M), Evelyn Murawski (M), Caitlin Seville (D).

Newcomers: Juniors —Madi Shaw (F);Sophomores —NatalieYoung (M),AvaLacaillade (M), Aleyna Aydogan (M); Freshmen —PatenGray (M),Olivia Halsey (M/D).

Analysis: Fourth-year coach Andy Ruddell departedafter last year and sevenseniors graduated. Chase is a first-year goalkeeper. It’sbeen alongslidefor the Phoenix since going 13-1 and reaching the2016 statetitle game.

STE VENS

Coach: Tim St. Pierre (23)

Last year: 16-2-1

League: NHIAA Division III

Returnees: Seniors — Maddy Minckler(F), Maddie LaVarnway (D),Kaiya Richard (M), Kiley Bundy (M), Maya Rice (M); Juniors —Bella Bovell (D), Navaeh LeBlanc(D), Rhea Quick(M), BriMarsh(D); Sophomores —Addison Derosier (M), Riley Leonard (F).

Newcomers: Sophomores — AudrinaPelton (G),EllaMuenzer (MF); Freshmen —Maddy Chambers (M), Payton Ferland (M), Faith Norton (M), Alexis Castaneda (D), Kayleigh Ferland (D), Anna Cass (D).

Analysis: Stevensscored 75 goals andallowed onlyfive last season but fell in the state semifinals toeventual championGilford.The Cardinalsgraduated five players, includingthree who earned all-state honors. “Despite our youth we couldbe a very strong teamby lateOctober,” said St. Pierre. “If we hit our form,wewillbe atoughoutin the playoffs.”

THE TFORD

Coach: Patrick Perry (1)

Last year: 1-13

League: Vermont Division III

Returnees: Seniors —Zurael

Returnees: Seniors —Olivia MacLeay (F),Miah McAllister (D); Juniors —Audrey Rupp (F), Brianna Barton(M), Brooklynn Currie (D),Sophia Dufour(M), Sophia Rockwood (G).

Sophomores —Cassie Clark (D), Cloey Pecor(D), Gabby Crane (D),Kenzie Wescott(M), Lilly Keefe (F/M).

Newcomers: Sophomore — Bailey Athorne (M/D); Freshmen —AbigailBrown (F/M/D), Jaylin Lyman(M/F), Olivia Larochelle (D), Reese Osgood (D).

Analysis: Eight startersreturnfrom aprogramthat reachedthe statequarterfinals last autumn. Rupp and MacLeay are a formidable scoring threat and Wescott and Barton spice up the midfield.McAllister isa strong defender in front of strong athlete Rockwood. Previous coach Jeff Bachey resigned after last season,his sixthwith the Yellowjackets.

WOODS TOCK

Coach: Greg LaBella (24)

Record: 11-6

League: Vermont Division II

Returnees: Seniors — Sophia Nisimblat (M), Chloe Massillon (F),Leah Kuhnert (M), Hannah Watson (D), Skye Cully (M), AmelieFabre (D); Juniors —Jane Stout(G),Lilly Macri (D),Aubrey Seman(M), OliviaGrasso (F),LucyDrebitko (D); Sophomores—Anna Fink (D),Sierra Bystrak(D),Maeve Roylance (M),Ella Lockhart (M), MimiKanda-Olmstead (D), Fiona Piconi (F), Sadie Boulboi (F).

Newcomers: Juniors —Eryn McGuire (F), Pippa Scott (M).

Analysis: Woodstock battled injuries last season but still reachedthe statesemifinalsand LaBella, 69, believesso strongly in this squad’spotential that he delayed hisplanned retirement for one more campaign. The Wasps, whowere 2-5-1just three yearsago,have aprogramincludesmore than30players, strongnumbers forarelatively small school.

—Tris Wykes

VALLEY NEWS PHOTOS —TRIS WYKES

Above: Stevens High’s Maddy Chambers gets a touch on the ball during practice at Monadnock Park. Left: Stevens High soccer player Kayleigh Ferland listens to instruction from coach Tim St. Pierre.

BOYS SOCCER

HANOVER

Coach: Rob Grabill (18)

Last year: 15-5

League: NHIAA Division I

Returnees: Seniors —Ryder Hayes (M), Zach Tracy (M), CarterGuerin (M),WillGuerin (M), Sean Smith (M), Wyatt Seelig (G), Sam Calderwood (D/ F), BenWoods (M),Joseph Rudd (D),Ian Press(M), Veer Patel (M);Juniors —Noah Winchester (D), Sam Ames (D), Andrew McGuire(F), Charlie Forbush(D), GavinMunson (M).Sophomore —Roan Palm (M).

Newcomers: Senior — Henry Werner (F);Juniors — Henry Cotter (G), Joseph Glass (D/M), AndrewRuss (M),Alejandro EsparzaSoto (M), SchuylerClapp; Sophomore— Sam Bagatell (D).

Analysis: TheBears return 17 lettermen from a team that lost toNashua Northin the state finals. Hanover has been to thesemifinals forfive consecutive years andhas the talentand experienceto makeanotherdeep run.Grabill is26040-16 andhas wonseven state crowns.

HAR TFORD

Coach: Connor Brooks (1)

Last year: 11-2-1

League: Vermont Division II

Returnees: Seniors —Payton Bessette (D/F), Mason Chase (G),Gabe Guillette(F), Lochlan Park (D), Owen Parker (D), BryceSobeleski (F);Juniors —CavanBenjamin (D), SebastianFraser (D/M),Tighe Hrabchak (F), BenLang (G), Nolan Morlock (M), Cavan O’Brien (D), Sam Peckinpaugh (M).

Newcomers: Juniors —HaydenHewitt (G),CadenMarcotte (D), Sam Morris (M), Hayden Pascarelli(M); Sophomores —Nick Hayes(D),Morgan Jensen (D), Jason Kelly (D/ M), Alden Weld (M/F).

Analysis: “We havea strong corereturning fromlastyear,” saidBrooks, aformer playerin the program.“We shouldbe sounddefensively butit willbe a collectiveteam effortto find scoring production.If wecan, we’ll be dangerouscome the end of the season.”

LEBANON

Coach: Rob Johnstone (30)

Last year: 12-5

League: NHIAA Division II

Returnees: Seniors —Nick Brill(F), BennettHewett(D), ConnerChinn (M),Chase Adams (F), Zach Aldrich (G), AndrewBelk (M/F),WillKatz (D/M),Riley Sullivan(M),Ben Twarog (D/M), LucasZaki (D/ M); Juniors —Otto Bourne (M), Nico Pentella (F), Dominic Calandrella (D); Sophomore — Benji Madory (D).

Newcomers: Seniors —Ben Achmoody (M),Finley MacMartin(D/G); Juniors—Tyler Kelly (M), Titus Billings (M/F), Theo Vallisiou (M), Myles Nolan (F), George Tafe(D), Bode Price (D),Reed Ferland(D), Luiz Menezes(M), Nicholas Caver (F); Sophomores —Abe Pearson (F), Miles Saunders (D/M), Nehemiah Billings (D), V.J. Sites (D), Kieran Lord (D).

Analysis: Eliminated in last year ’s quarterfinals,Lebanon returns 10players whostarted at least one game last season, led by first team All-State selections Brill and Bourne. Only three of the Raiders’45 goals from last year were scored by players nolonger withthe program.Billings, aJordanianimmigrant, immediatelybecomes one of theteam’s best players, whileVallisiou, aHartford transfer, shouldcrack thestarting lineup. Kelly is a speedy import from Sunapee. Aldrich, who split time in net as a junior, is the program’sonly experienced goaltender.

MASCOMA

Coach: Ryan Limero (5)

Last year’s record: 16-3-1

League: NHIAA Division III

Returnees: Seniors — Cameron Jesperson-Pecor(D), James Thomas(M/F), Logan Isham (M/F), AidanSmith (M); Juniors —Tanner Moulton (M), Reuben Densmore (M/F), Andrew Prince (M), Matt Favreau (G),Marshall Yourke,(D); Sophomores —Brayden Pierce (F),Bryce Ballou(M),Mason Ballard (M).

Newcomers: Juniors—Mason Drexler (D), Michael Stevens-Aranda (D);Sophomores —Dylan Cannon (F), Landon Ramirez (M).

Analysis: The Royals reached theirfirst statefinal but graduatedstar midfielder ZachThompson. Secondteam all-statemidfielder Smithand attacking threat Pierce return.

OXBOW

Coach: Chuck Simmons (1)

Last year: 2-12

Vermont Division III

Returnees: Seniors — Dakota Goodrich (G), Mathew

Corti (D), Reece Isley (F), Jeremiah Fifield (D); Juniors —ShaneMorse (D),Oden Schlager(D), EthanEmerson (F), Andrew Barrett(M), Liam O’Connell (D), John Drugach (D),Zadian Walton(F);Sophomores —BraxtonAdams (M), Jayden Huntoon (M).

Newcomers: Freshman — Kobin Ellsworth (M),John

(D),Owen Brackett(D);Freshmen: Colin Keep (G), Sully Staff (M),OrionBee (F),ArkinJose (D).

Analysis: Sharon was 12-3 two years ago, its first time winning morethan 10games during a season in seven years. Four playersgraduated earlier this year and another two didn’t return.Keep figuresto facenumerousshots duringhisfirst varsity season.

STE VENS

Coach: Jason Stone (12)

Last year: 3-13

League: NHIAA Division 3

Returnees:Seniors —Jason Demars (M), Luke Belisle (M), Matt Wilmont(D), JacksonFellows (D), Landon Norton-Avery (D)Rowan Brothers(D),MasonFerland (F);Juniors— Nevin Marsh (G),Davin Boehle (G), Matt Goss (D), Connor Miller(M); Sophomores-Pat Prive (D), LoganMinckler (D), Josh Howe (M).

Newcomers: Sophomore: Kieran Heath (M); FreshmenOwen Chapman(F), Oliver Stone (M),Daven Vaine(D), JaxonChurchill (M),Kasey Morin (M).

Analysis: Stevenshad its worst season in a dozen years last autumn because of widespread injuries. The Cardinals’bestseason inrecent memory resultedin astate finals trip during 2016.

THE TFORD

Coach: JonathanBicknell (1st year)

Last year: 7-7-2

League: VermontDivision III

Returnees: Seniors — Mitchell Parkman(D), Justin Robinson(G); Juniors— Hunter Clay(D), DempseyMcGovern(D), MatthewVivian (M), .Sophomores —Thomas Amber (D), Owen Goodrich (F), Dylan Libby (M), Daniel Mann (M), Cody Mckinstry (G), Samuel Parkman (D), Emmett Terry (D),David Thaxton(D), Henry Trage (M).

Above:Hanover High’s Jojo Drent, left, and Lebanon’s Reed Ferlandwatch a bouncing ball during their teams preseason scrimmage in Hanover.Left: Stevens High’s Connor Premo dribbles during practice at Monadnock Park. Below:Woodstock High’s Finn Costello, left, and Luke Heckerclash overthe ball duringpractice in Woodstock.

Analysis: Simmons, who also coachesbasketball andsoftball atthe school,is optimistiche can help thefutbol squad. “My job is to find what player combinationswork onthe pitchearly this season to make a good push throughthe playoffs,”he said, notingthe Olympiansexited last season’s playoffs with a two-goal loss tothe eventual state champions.

RIVENDELL

Coach: Soren Smith (1)

Last Year: 14-2

League: VermontDivision IV

Returnees: Seniors — Carter Bacon(G), Gabriel Wright Swaine (M), Jacoby Patterson (F); Juniors—Kaydin Gilman (M), WillKnowles (M), Sophomores; Toren King (D).

Newcomers: Sophomores — LoganHarris (M),RyanLent (D), RaganPelligrino (M); Freshmen —CyrusKing (D), Joshua Douglas(M), Julian Douglas (D), NolanBourn (M), Wyatt Parker (M).

Analysis: Graduationlosses have lessened the Raptors’ numbers andcould indicatea rebuilding season. However, Smith, who’s previously coached in thelocal club scene thinks a returning core has resulted in “aconfident group that is eager toprove they can continueto bea verycompetitive team.”

SHARON

Coach: Grayson Levy (2)

Last year: 1-13

League: VermontDivision IV

Returnees: Seniors — ZabrienMcGee (F),JacobJeffries (F); Juniors —Ellis Bogardus (F),Ira Ferro(D/M), Bryce Rikert (D), Luke Miller (M/F); Sophomores —Gabe Malloy (F), Cole Morancy (D).

Newcomers: Sophomores — Raiden Danford (D/M), Daniel Piasecki (D/M),Shiva Flanders

Newcomers: Seniors — Owen Bicknell(M), AsaKeleher (D);Freshman —Andrew Foster (D), Matthew McGovern (M),Oliver Emery(M),Rowan Moody-Aness (M), Tanner Hardy (M), Julian Cutter (M).

Analysis: Bicknell arrives after helping coach at Dover High and is the program’s third coach in asmany years. The Panthers,who reachedlast year ’squarterfinals are12-21-7 the past three seasons. Thetford has wonthree state titles, its last in 1996.

WHITE

RIVER VALLEY

Coach: Alex Montaño (10)

Last year: 9-4-1

League: VermontDivision III

Returnees: Seniors —Ben Bean(D), CoryDarlingSalls (G),Finn Bailey(F); Juniors— Brayden Russ (M), Donavan Craven (D), Hayden Mabey (D), PaulAndrade (M),Sonny Snelling (D);Sophomores — Andrew Fors (M), Bennett Hanson(M), IsaacWimett (F),Jacob Benoit (M), Kelan Tlumacki (F), LincolnMiller (D),Matt Bangerter (M),Sawyer MorrillCornelius (M), Ty Couture (G).

Newcomer: Senior —Joey Ferris (M); Freshmen—Isaac Kinsley (D), JackHughes (F), Lucas Hatch (D),Samuel Armstrong (M).

Analysis: “Success will likely depend on theprojected six freshmen orsophomore starters,”Montaño said, noting it’s the Wildcats’second season in Division III.

WOODS TOCK

Coach: Rob Stainton (4)

Last year: 12-6

League: VermontDivision III

Returnees: Seniors —Ezra Lockhart (M), Bode Wood (M), Zach Martsolf Tan (D), Jaedon Beardsley (D), Ben Johnson (D)Joe Tsouknakis(D)Django Farinas (F), LucasMorgan (D); Juniors —Parker Pierce (G), Ethan Zayas (G), Reid Allegretti(M), AidanKeoughVella (M), OliverO’Neill (F),Joey Sluka (M).

Newcomers: Sophomore — Oliver Boswell (D); Freshmen —Luke Hecker(M), Drew Gallagher (M).

Analysis: “Alarge groupof returning seniorswill needto bring leadershipto theteam,” Stainton said.“We’re relatively unchangedat theback, sothe challengeis findingwaysto score with a new front line.”

Bohan (F), Josh Gray (D), Quinten Drugach (D).

VALLEY NEWS PHOTOGRAPHS —TRIS WYKES

HANOVER

Coach: Sam Cavallaro (9)

Last year: 6-4, lostinquarterfinalsto

Bow.

FOOTBALL

League: NHIAA Division II

Retur ners: Seniors —Caleb Buskey (TE/ LB), Nels Jones (OL/DL),Roger Lucas (QB/ DB), Jeffrey Vidou (RB/OLB), Teddy Sumner (WR/DB), MateoTrimble (WR/OLB). Juniors —Andrew Frechette(QB/LB), David Frechette (RB/DB), Tyler Gammel (OL/DL). Keegan Murphy (OL/LB), Aidan Caulfield(OL/DL), Tanner Longmoore(QB/ RB/DB). Sophomores — Roy Lucas (WR/DB), Ryan

O’Hern (WR/DB), Jaysen Oriol (TE/DL), Brennan O’Toole (OL/DL), Chris Ryckman (QB/LB), John Taylor (RB/LB), Ben Spencer (OL/DL), Charlie Chambers (RB/LB).

Newcomers: Seniors —Alex McGrath, Tristen Robles.Junior —Lionel Ndong. Sophomore —Keller Greene.

Outlook: After back-to-backearly playoff exits, the Bears have a roster chock-full of experience, led by Roger Lucas behind center andJeffrey Vidouinthe offensivebackfield. Hanover ’s younger players, led by Jaysen Oriol, stepped into key roles as well and showcased the program’s depth.

HAR TFORD

Coach: Matt Trombly (10)

Last year: 4-5,lost inquarterfinals toMiddlebur y.

League: Vermont Division I

Retur ners: Seniors —Brayden Trombly (QB/DB/P), EzraMock (RB/DB),Brody Tyburski (RB/DE), Andrew Keenan (OL/LB), Evan Lynds (WR/DB/P), Ryan Spaulding(OL/DL), Cole Withington (OL/LB), Matt Franklin(OL/DL).

Juniors —Colby Tierney (TE/DE), Nick Daniels (RB/LB), Tyler Piper (RB/ DB), Austin St.Peter (RB/ LB).

Newcomers: Senior — Ben Shepard (OL/DL). Junior —Aidan Harrington (OL/DL). Sophomores— Graham Thompson (OL/DE/K), Adam Wheatley (RB/LB), NoahDanielli (RB/LB), Owen Mock (QB/DB), ConnorPeyton (RB/DB), Richard Rosenbek(OL/DL), OtisDavis (OL/ DL), Lucas Schwartz (OL/DL). Freshmen — Rex Banning (RB/DB),Jacob Phelps (OL/ LB), Connor Schloop (TE/DE).

Outlook: This isanimportantyear forthe Hurricanes with three-yearsenior starters at several skill positions,including Brayden Trombly,Brody Tyburskiand EzraMock. Depth couldbe anissue, though,with asmall rostercomparedto mostofHartford’s DivisionIpeers.Most starterswillplaybothoffense and defense.

NE WPORT

Coach: John Proper (5)

Last year: 7-2, lostin finalsto Somersworth.

League: NHIAA Division IV

Retur ners: Seniors —KyleAshley (QB/ LB), LoganAsh (T/DT), ColtonGodwin (G/ DE), Andrew Chartier (T/DT), Lucas Devore (RB/LB). Juniors —Christian Forsythe (TE/ CB), Gabe Howe (RB/LB), Kamden Pollari (T/ DT), Cameryn Simpson (RB/CB), Dylan Stanley (G/LB),Amelio Urista(RB/LB), Aaron Fellows (QB/CB), Connor Clark (TE/CB),Cayden Forand (RB/CB). Sophomores —Aiden Couitt (TE/DE), CaydenDeCato (C/DT), Brady Minckler (C/DT), Adrian Sanchez (TE/DE), Blake Ploss (QB/S), KobieCurtis (RB/ LB).

Newcomers: Senior — EliFuller (T/DT).Junior —Tanir Fournier(TE/ LB). Freshmen —Tyson DiPaola (QB/LB),Brycen Flewelling(RB/ CB), Ayden Hodge (RB/LB), Aiden Horne (TE/DT), Isaiah Nash(T/DE), Cameron Nerenburg(G/LB), CoryRichardson(G/DT), Jordan Sayer (TE/CB),Josh Seymour (RB/ S).

Outlook: Long one of the top teams in Division IV, the Tigers have plenty of returning experience asthey look tochallenge Somersworth and the rest of the field for the title.

“Weare lookingtogetback totheplayoffs andanothershot atastatechampionship,” Proper said. “We lost some key parts from last year ’s team,but we have astrong foundation to buildfrom with severalreturning starters from last year.”

OXBOW

Coach: Chad Wescott (5)

Last year: 5-5, missed playoffs

League: Vermont Division III

Retur ners: Senior —Hunter Fahey (OL/ LB).Juniors —Christian Ditcheos(OL/DL), IsaacRuss(OL/DE), OwenTaylor(TE/DE).

Sophomores —Jaxon Griffin (RB/CB), Brady Kilduf (RB/DE), Jamal Saibou (QB/CB).

Newcomers: Senior —Otis Brochu (OL/

DL). Junior—Gabe Linlaw(WR/S). Sophomores —Dylan Lacasse (WR/S), Griffin Pike (OL/LB), Adrick Schauer (OL/DL). Freshmen —TannerBernier (QB/S),Preston Burroughs (RB/LB), LennoxCouitt (OL/DL), Hayden Johnston(OL/DL), AustinPalmer (OL/DL).

Outlook: With just17 players, the Olympianscanill-afford manyinjuriesthis fall.Oxbow enjoyedasolidseason lastyear but has moved on fromfaces of the program like Chase Lund, Will Ilsley and Xavier Beaudin.This mayend upbeing arebuilding campaign for the O’s.

STE VENS

Coach: Josh Duford (2)

Last year: 5-4, missed playoffs

League: NHIAA Division III

Retur ners: Seniors —Tyler Christian (QB/LB), Aiden Barry(RB/LB), Kevin Brand (OL/DL), Braeden Parry Pignatiello (OL/DL), Brayden Rostron (OL/DL).Juniors —Kaine Daniels (WB/DB),Zach Richardson(TE/LB), Austin Simoneau (OL/DL), Hunter Watson (OL/DL), Steven Rheaume (OL/DL). Sophomores —Scott Hagar (WB/DB), Jharin Valcourt-Garrow (WR/DB), Arianna Thompson (TE/LB), Talon Morrison (OL/LB), David Collins (OL/LB), HazenClay (OL/DL), Trenton Ring (OL/DL). Newcomers: Seniors —Kurtis Chaloux,

Jonathan Ward(OL/DL). Juniors—Maddox Foster, Barin St. Sauveur (OL/DL). Sophomores —Brady Little(WR/DB),Henry Owens (OL/DL). Freshmen—Karson Thyne (QB/RB/DB), JacobyRoberts (QB/WR/LB), Karter Thyne (WR/DB), Carter Bastian (RB/ DB), Johnny Frisbee(QB/LB), Mark Shehan (WR/DB), Collin Grosskreutz (RB/LB), Damien Rock, Mason Harford (OL/DL), Byron DeCamp(OL/DL), JoshuaRollins (OL/ DL), Aiden Moore (OL/DL), Cooper Piemontese (OL/DL), Sean Stickney (OL/DL).

Outlook: The Cardinals area young team slimonvarsity experience,andseveralunderclassmenwill seeplentyofplaying timeat keypositions. TylerChristian, atquarterback andmiddlelinebacker,will beacatalystonce again forStevens, which came upone game short of qualifying for the postseason in 2022.

WINDSOR

Coach: Greg Balch (11)

Last year: 11-0, defeated BFA-Fairfax for state title.

League: Vermont Division III

Retur ners: Seniors —Avery Bean (OL/ LB), Brody Osgood (RB/DB), Olivia MacLeay (K), Anthony Cook (WR/DB), Carter Hodgdon (OL/DL), Corey Lockwood (RB/QB/LB), Dante Roy (OL/DL), Landon Mas (OL/DL), Owen Roberge (WR/DB), Tanner Moody (OL/ RB/LB), Ryan Towne (OL/DL), Bradley

Adams (WR/DB).Juniors —Gavin Martin (RB/DB), JoeyGaudette (OL/LB),Tanner Crane (WR/DB). Sophomores —Chase Hodgdon(OL/DL),Ethan Wood(OL/DL),Henry Rice (OL/DL), KolinLabarre (OL/DL), MorganJohnson (OL/LB),Tristan Merrill(OL/ DL).

Newcomers: Seniors —Trevor LaGrow, Brady Olmstead,Brooks Ruderman.Juniors —Nick Laduke,JustinDraper, DanielHaugaard-Steffensen. Sophomores —Tylor Saragusa, Oden Cramer. Freshmen —Marz Percy, Oliver Berklund, Aiden White, Zachary Young, Aiden Doxter,Hunter Frink,Logan Coutermarsh, Anthony Sheridan.

Outlook: TheYellowjackets aretheclass of their division, with only BFA-Fairfax able to playWindsorcloseover thelasttwoyears.

Key performers like Maison Fortin and Logan Worrallhave graduated,butthisis stilla deep, talented roster that figures to be the favorite to three-peat.

“We are excited forthe season to start,” Balchsaid. “Weexpecttohave around30-35 playersand manyofthemhave beenworking hard during the offseason. We have a nice blend of youth and experience including several new players.We will continue toset expectations high.”

WOODS TOCK

Coach: Ramsey Worrell (11th season).

Last year: 4-5, lost in quarterfinals to Mill River.

League: VPA Division III.

Retur ners: Seniors —Josh Hough(HB/ DB), Meridian Bremel (OT/DE). Juniors — CaedenPerreault (HB/DB),ChancePalmer (C/DE), ColtonKowalski (OT/DT),Caden Smith (TE/LB). Sophomores—Asher Emery (QB/DB), RileyO’Neal (HB/LB),Brody Allen (WR/DB), Aksel Oakes(QB/DB), Brody McGaffigan (WR/DB),Ian Hewitt(TE/DE), Gianni Blanchard (OT/DT).

Newcomers: Seniors —JackKieley (TE/ LB),JonasWysocki (G/DT),CharlieRice(G/ LB). Juniors—Ben Runstein(RB/DB), Zane Peach (FB/DT), Vince Petrone (HB/DB), CarterWarren (FB/LB),Cora Hewitt(OL/ DL), Irie Cully (G/DT),Ryan Woodward (G/ DT). Sophomores—AsherHewitt (G/DE), Dominic Palazzo(C/DE). Freshmen—Jake Blackburn(RB/LB), RayPetrone(QB/DB), Coby McGaffigan (WR/DB),Camden King (OL/LB), Haaken Oakes(OT/DT), Declan Haugh (WR/DB).

Outlook: The Wasps may have lost leading rusher WillyUnderwood tograduation, but Josh Hough returns to leadthe way in the backfield.An underclassman-heavyWoodstock groupcould laythe foundationfor deep playoff runs in the coming years.

By Benjamin Rosenberg

VALLEY NEWS PHOTOGRAPHS —TRIS WYKES

Oxbow High assistant coach Nick Ditcheos watches as ball carrier Tanner Bernier is tackled during an Aug. 18 practice in Bradford.

Jeni Frechette, one of Hartford High’s certified athletic trainers, is surrounded by hydrating football players during an August practice in White River Junction.

Matt Franklin

Logan Ash

Brennan O’Toole

CROSS COUNTRY

By PATRICK O’GR ADY Valley News Correspondent

HANOVER

Coaches: EricPicconi (10) andDorcas DenHartog (10)

Last year: Girls were state champions, placed first in theN.H.Meet ofChampions,seventhin theNewEngland Championship and wonthe CVC Championship. Boys were third at the state meet, seventh at the Meet of Champions and second at the CVC Championships.

League: NHIAA Division II

Returners: Seniors —LilyTerry, SarahGlueck, Noah Branchflower, Will Parker,Lucian Gleiser, Noah Glenney, Michael Jia, Aiden Powell. Juniors —Nicolas Van Citters, Abe Healey, Rex Gleason, Ryan Faris, Alex Valentino, Andrew Valentino,Nandeesh Jain, Heidi Davis, Penelope Collins, Iris Freeman, Linda Zhao, Oliver Greenway, AryamanBhaskar, Harry Hirschman. Sophomores —Megan Faris, LeaPerreard, Leigh,Eggleton, Lila Muirhead,Mary Westrich, Nathaniel Picconi-Eakin, Will Hanaway,Evan Lewandoski,OliviaLiu, BenHourdequin, GabrielHuyck, MatildaMunroe, EveMcLaughlin, Nora Holmes

Newcomers: Seniors —Sydney Sandor, Anna Healey, SkylarSpiro, Eva Simpson, AylaWager, Aidan Bradley. Juniors—IsaacNovosad, WillowClifford, Natalie Wainwright,Anjana Chetan.Sophomores —Ethan Welder, Millie Larrick, Daniel Alexio. Freshmen —Aila Butler, AriHirschler, Ben Groves,Aria Deeb,Alice Bell, Donovan VanCitters, IraClifford, WillKetterer, Sage Freeman, Max Brown, AlistairCraib, Rohan Novosad, Allie McBride, Iris Chestnut, Ansh Mishra

Analysis: Anotherteam that is loadedand talented sums up the Bears this season.

“We hope to continue to run strong this season with a bigger roster and tons ofpositive energy,”Piconni said. “Last year they gave their coach a reason to dye his hair pink. We will see what this season has in store; there are always surprises. We know that we will bring a competitive group to every meet and we look forward to running with othergreat NewHampshire andVermont teamsIf everythinggoeswell, itwillbea long,memorableseason.”

HAR TFORD

Coach: Fatimah Shabazz (3)

Last year: Boys wereSVL championsand ninthat the state meet. Girls were second at the SVL championship and 10th at the state meet.

League: Vermont Division III

Returners: Seniors —Jack Fournier-Stephens, AlexSmith, JoeyKnapp. Juniors—Connor Beland, Bennett Moreno,Hugh Wendling. Sophomore—Graham MacLaury.

Newcomers: Junior —Geneva Durgin. Sophomore —Jaxon Dalpra. Freshman —Elliot Brooks.

Analysis: The girlswillrelyon twonewcomersin Durgin and Dalpra, firsttime cross country runners, astheteam beginsrebuildingwiththe lossofthree runners to graduation.

Boys return accomplished runners and introduce a talented freshman.

“They have the same hunger as last season and we are looking to improve onour performances from last season,”coach Fatimah Shabazz said. “Moreno will lead theteam withFournier-Stephens. Knapp,Smith, Beland, Wendlingand MacLaurybattling eachweek forthe top.FreshmanElliott Brookslookstobe inthe mix after finishing third forthe Hurricanes at the preseason two-miler at Hanover.

LEBANON

Coaches: Kevin Lozeau (10) and Heidi Caldwell (1)

Last Year: Boys finished third at state meet, fourth at the Meet of Champions,and 17th in New England.Girls were10th atthe state meet.

League: NHIAA Division II

Returners: Seniors —Nick Engert. Juniors—Tomas Kennelly, Doyen Kodiweera, Augustin RamosGlew, Chip Silver,Palmer Susco, David Zhou. Sophomores —Alex Boardman, Elise Brown, Sarah Smith, Alex Wheelock. Newcomers: Seniors —Carson

Boardman,Olivia Cook,KatherineHerring, RyleIsuga. Juniors —Marco Getchell,DrewKantor,Sophia Mladek,Amalia Mladek,Lenny Rey.Sophomore —Annie Hanna. Freshmen —Koen Christie, Jo Griffin, Olivia Hanna, Annabelle Norris, Alistair Smith, Will Wilson

Analysis: The Raider boys lost the core of their team —seven runners—tograduation includingBirhanu Harrimanwho wasDII statechampion,took secondat the Meet of Champions and third at New Englands.

The boys will be led byNick Engert, who is making the full-time switch to cross country for the first time this year,backedbyastrong groupofrisingjuniorsinAugustin Ramos-Glew, Doyen Kodiweera, and Chip Silver.

“While thiswill bea rebuildingyear forthe boys,the addeddepth ofmany newcomerstothis youngteam shouldresult ina solidendof seasonperformance,” Coach Kevin Lozeau said.

Thegirls graduatedIzzyHastingswho qualifiedfor New England andwill be rebuilding withonly two returners, sophomores Sarah Smith and Elise Brown, who had strong spring track seasons.

“They willbe joinedby manynewcomers, including someupperclassmen switchingto crosscountry forthe first time,”Lozeau said. “While theteamis veryyoung and lacks experience, early practices show there is massive potential for the girls to improve upon their team results from last year.”

MASCOMA

Coach: Rick Currier (1)

LastYear: Boysplaced11th inthestate meet.Girls did not have a team score.

League: NHIAA Division II

Returners: Juniors —Brody Albanese, Brayden Cilbrith, Gunner Currier, Trevor Maheu

Newcomers: Freshmen —Karson Rogers, Carl Russell.

Analysis: The Royalswill not field agirls team this year but the boys are looking to improve upon last year’s performances and with no seniors, the team has high hopes for the next two years.

“We’ll be led by Gunner Currier, coming off of a 10th place finishat the NHIAADivision III statemeet last season, but hedefinitely will not bealone,”Mascoma Coach Rick Currier said.“Brody Albanese, Trevor Maheu and Brayden Cilbrith all have the ability to make the climb into the top 50 at this year’s State Meet. Freshmen KarsonRogersandCarlRussell arecomingoffofsixth and tenthplace finishesat lastyear’s NewHampshire Division3Middle SchoolStateMeetand willmakean immediateimpact forourprogram. Wedonot haveany seniorsthis year,sothis yearwe’rereally focusingon getting stronger as a group and trying to position ourselves for something special next year.”

NE WPORT

Coach: Alexander Stewart (2)

Last year: Boyswere23rd outof32teams atthe state meet

League: NHIAA Division III

Retur ners: Junior —Noah Fryman. Sophomores —Bryce Palmer, MichaelBohn, Joshua Jordan. Freshmen —Tristan Hannum(ran with the team as an 8th grader)

Newcomers: Junior —KaylaZullo. Sophomore—

Taven Velez

Analysis: “We’relooking tobuild onour success last year,”Coach Alexander Stewartsaid. “Wehave a lot ofreturning members, includingour topfive scorers.BrycePalmerislooking tohaveabreakoutyear. New tothe district is KaylaZullo, who canquickly becomeone ofourtop runners—she’stheonly girlbut will run for the boys team.”

OXBOW

Coach: Cassie Saikin (5)

Last year: XXXX

League: Vermont Division XXXX

Retur ners: Junior —Libby Swift. Sophomores — Kevin Page, Casey Wiedrick.

Newcomers: Sophomore —Miley Chen. Freshmen —Benjamin Nelson, Seamus Fleming.

Analysis: Thegraduation of four runnersleft the Olympians with a smaller squad this year.

“Welooktocontinue togrowourprogramat Oxbow,”CoachCassie Saikin said.“While wehave a smallteam,we stillhavelotsof experiencecomingin. Manyof ourrunnershave beeninour program fora fewyears,andtheycontinue topushthemselvestobe better each week.”

THE TFORD

Coaches: Joseph Deffner (30), Emily Silver (21)

Last year: Boys werethirdatthe statemeetand second at theSVL Championship. Girls wonthe state meet and were second in the SVL Championship.

League: Vermont Division III

Retur ners: Seniors —Mar y Bosco,Charlize Brown,Annie Hesser, Jasper Jones,Finn Liland, Cecilia Luce, Ben Mattern. Juniors —ConnorGaine, AvaHayden, Miguel Kutter-Walker, Brady Sloop, Hardy Payson, OliverRansom, Ramona Spelman,Sophomore — Wendell Durham.

Newcomers: Senior —Whitney Lewis.Juniors —Liam Murphy, Isaac Yukica. Sophomores —Lucia Carr, Elijah Renner. Freshmen — Paul Hesser, Paul Kidd, Sebastian Perdrizet

Analysis: The Panthergirlsarepoised todefend their title while the boys hold the promise of improvement, Coach Emily Silver said “We expectour girls’team torespond wellto the pressure of defending their VTD-III title,”Silver said. “Theyarea verypositivegroupandare readytowork hard.A solidsummer oftraining hasput therunners on our boys team in a good position to improve as individuals and as a team. We are excited to see what they can do.”

WHITE RIVER VALLEY

Coach: David Mattern (3)

Last year: Girls were fourth at the state meet

League: Vemont Division III

Retur nees: Senior —Anita Miller. Juniors — Madelyn Gibson, Hannah Collins. Sophomores —BennettHanson,Lincoln Miller,AnyaYoung,Julia Bowen.

Newcomers: Sophomore —Ava Patch. Freshman —Liam White

Analysis: “This season we’re hoping to build on last year ’sindividual successesaswell asbeable toscore in the team competition with both teams,”coach Dave Mattern said.

WINDSOR

Coach: Kabray Rockwood (9)

Last year: No teams scores at the state meet

League: Vermont Division III

Retur ner: Junior —Hudson Ranney.

Newcomer: Junior —Mackenzie Pate.

Analysis: An eye to the future describes the Yellowjacketssquad thatis hopingnumberswill increasein the years ahead.

“The high school team graduated two seniors last year and is experiencing low numbers,”coach Kabray Rockwood said. “There is hope for a revitalization with aslewofjuniorhigh runnersthatareshowinggreat promise. Timewill tellif thatwill translateto asurge in numbers at the high school level.”

WOODS TOCK

Coaches: Martha Perkins (9)and Abbie Castriotta (2)

Last year: Boys were sixth and the girls seventh at the state meet.

League: Vermont Division II

Returners: Seniors —MacAbrams, Lila Beckwith, Logan Knox, William Obbard, Keller Pauly, Farren Stainton, Ella Stainton. Juniors —Izzy Cellini, Owen Courcey, EdwinLynds,Myra McNaughton,JamesUnderwood. Sophomores —JoaquinJones-Welker, BethanyThorburn.

Newcomers: Junior —Elizabeth Tindall. Sophomore —Dexter Namkung. Freshmen —Lucia Beckwith, Nick Cellini, Caleb Enser, Mackenzie Graham, Logan Martes, Pippa Shaw, Ukiah Jones-Welker, Liam Wheeler.

Analysis: The boyshavehandedthe mantleofleadershipto captainsMac Abrams,Owen Courceyand James Underwood with the graduation of three top runners. “Big shoes to fill,”coach Martha Perkins said, adding thatUnderwood participates inskyrunning, a challenging sportover mountainterrain. “Oddsare, he will ‘do histhing,’and the pack-work willbe up to Courcey andAbrams,”Perkinssaid. “The boys’team is excited to welcome a number of new runners this year to flush out those packs and the season looks optimistically full of discoveries.”

On the girls’side, Woodstock returns a strong core of runners. “It’s time for this young team to stride into its own as an experienced team,”Perkins said.

She expects the style andapproach of Lila Beckwith, Logan Knoxand FarrenStainton tomesh nicelywith other returners and determined freshmen.”

VALLEY NEWS FILE

Upper Valley athletes and others take off from the starting line in the VPA Division II cross country meet at Thetford Academy last October.

Rex Gleason

Ava Hayden

Annie Hanna

FIELD HOCKEY

HANOVER

Coach: Mallory Hillman (1).

Last year: 9-6-1, lostin quarterfinals to John Stark.

League: NHIAA Division II.

Retur ners: Seniors —Savannah Walczak(F/capt.), Jolie Reznek(D). Juniors— Eva Bell (M/capt.), Sophia Costa (M),Lauren Evans (M), Gwen Riordan(G), Lily Smith(D), JackieAnderson (D).

Newcomers: Freshmen

—Catherine Anderson (D), Joia Collins(M/F), Grace Healey (F),Olivia Klinger (D),Greta Mancini(M/F), Sophia Mancini (F),Anya Nyhan (M), ElenaSimon (D), Ruby Lintner (D), Caroline “Grace”Staats (D).

Outlook: Mallory Hillman takes overas headcoach for the Bears afterJean Essex held the role for 20 years and won two state titles. Hanover had seven seniors last year compared to just two this fall, with 10freshmen joiningthe varsity squad.

“Therewill bea lotof changeson andoff thefield thisyear,but I’m looking forward toa yearof growth,” Hillman said. “Whilewe have a lotof youngerplayers, they have already shown tremendous promise on the field and I’moptimistic aboutthe team’soutlook thisupcoming season.”

HAR TFORD

Coach: Heather Scudder (35).

Last year: 13-3-1, lost in finals to Woodstock.

League: VPA Division II.

Retur ners: Kennedi Rhodes (D),Kamryn Brower (RI), Maddi Willey (RW), Gabby Gardner (M), MJ Rogers (G). Juniors—Paige

Vielleux(G), OliviaSeaver (RW), Madison Barwood (LI), Paige Trombley (D), Devyn Potter (D).Sophomores — Charlotte Jasmin(M), Aubree Vail(LI), Grace Brothers (D),Flynn Moreno (D).

Newcomers: Freshmen

—Leah Arsenault (D), Hailey Vanasse (RW),Mackenzie Bennett (M).

Outlook: After back-toback runner-up finishes in Division II, theHurricanes are hungry to finishthe job this fall,and theycertainlyhave the experienceto doso.

MaddiWilley andMadison Barwood will continue to pacethe Hartfordoffense, whilePaige Tromblyand Paige Vielleuxhold things down defensively.

“Despite low numbers, we haveplentyof talenttohang our hopes on,”Scudder said. “We are working hard to keep the winning tradition alive.”

LEBANON

Coach: Amanda Valliere (7).

Last year: 7-7-1, lostin first round to Hanover.

League: NHIAA Division II.

Retur ners: Seniors — Lindsey Stark (M/capt.), Sophia Salo (F), America Carmona(M). Juniors— Meghanne Cheevers(G), Mackenzie Ray (F/capt.), Abigail Gallagher(D). Sopho-

mores —Savannah Therriault(M), HarperRancourt (M).

Newcomers: Juniors — Braelyn Covell (M), Hannah Barton (F),Summer Davis (D), Norah Burns (F). Sophomores —Caitlin Hastings (M),Gabby Mayhew(M). Freshmen —Brianna Allard (M), Summer Crowell (F).

Outlook: Valliere’s team will rely onLindsey Stark, Mackenzie Ray and Abigail Gallagher for experience and leadership this fall after losingseven seniorsfromlast year ’s team.Meghanne Cheevers will direct the defense in goal.

“We have quitea young team thisyear, whichmeans there is a lotof room to grow and we are excitedto see the team dynamictake shape through the course of the season,”Valliere said.

MASCOMA

Coach: Danielle Pushee (2). Last year: 8-7-1, lostin quarterfinals to Gilford.

League: NHIAA Division III. Retur ners: Seniors —

KylieRogers (M),Hailey Miller (D),Kara Miller(M), Bryanna Thurston (F), Gabbie Pierce (G). Juniors — Jillianne Ballou (D), Ann Buffington (F).

Sophomores — Makenna Houston (F), Aubrey Meyveagaci (D), EleanorMcGrody (M),Georgia Kondi (D).

Newcomers: Sophomores —Myah Crandall(F),Anna Emmerson (F), Samantha Harkins (D/F/G). Freshmen —Evie Bennett(F),Aaliyah Muzzey (F).

Outlook: The Royals improved fromthree winsto eight in Danielle Pushee’s first season ashead coach last fall, and they lost just one senior from that group. MakennaHouston andAnn Buffington are the top returnerson offense,andGabbie Pierceanchors thedefense from the cage.

“Wehave hadsomeunexpected holes to fill this season, but I have been really impressedwith thedeterminationof ourplayers toquickly learn new positions and some new formations,”Pushee said. “We havealot ofexperienced players returning. I am hopeful that theywill be able to leadour youngerplayers thisseason andhelpguide them on the field.”

WINDSOR

Coach: Blake Wardwell (2).

Last year: 7-9, lostin semifinals to Montpelier.

League: VPA Division III.

Retur ners: Seniors — Gwen Ambrose (F), Gabby Gilbert (F), Sydney Perry (G), Amber Simonds (D), Mattie Tenney(D), AnniePreece (F),FernDay (D).Juniors— Kierstin Carvalho (D), Gianna Felice (M),Piper Vivian (F).Sophomores —Tatum Flanagan (F), Madison Halzwarth (D), Mackenzie Kleefisch(F), EllaPrebish (D), Hannah Tenney (F).

Newcomers: Junior — Helen Kalacinski (D). Sophomores —Anna Bergeron (D),

BASS FISHING

By BILL WILKINSON Valley News Correspondent HAR TFORD

Coach: Michael Barata (1)

Last year: Fourth atVPAstate tournament.

Returners: Senior —Connor Rice; Juniors —Thomas Gross, Jack Grigsby; Sophomore —Coleman Waters.

Newcomers: Junior — Logan White; Freshmen — Benjamin Potter, Triv-Ann Maharaj, SophiaBarry, Kaitlyn Nichols.

Outlook: The year’s team featuresthe first threegirls tojoin theprogram inMaharaj, Barry and Nichols. “Ibelieve we havea greatopportunityto improve on last year’s finish.”Barata said.

LEBANON

Coach: Mike Anikis (6)

Last year: 21st (out of 33) at the state qualifying tournament.

Returners: Juniors — Hannah Giguere, Caleb Swinson. Newcomers: Senior —Ben Nelson; Junior —David Champagne; Freshmen —Connor Noyes, Zach Illsley.

Outlook: Preseason tripsto both Mascoma andCrystal Lakewent well. “We have a good mix of experi-

ence and newcomers,”Anikis said.

MASCOMA

Coach: Eric Moulton (4)

Last year: Third at NHIAA state championship event.

Retur ners: Juniors —Tanner

Moulton, Peyton Sargent.

Newcomers: Freshman —Maliky Bates.

Outlook: The Royals are down in numbers, but are coming off back-toback third-placefinishes at thestate tournament.

Thetwo returninganglers (Tanner Moulton and Peyton Sargent) have plentyof experiencefor this smallsquad, which hopes to grow its numbers asthe schoolyear gets underway.

TFORD

Coach: Shane West (2)

Lastyear: 11th at the Vermont statechampionship.

Retur ners: Juniors — EthanWest, CaseyGross; Sophomore —Dylan Campbell; Freshman — Adam Braley.

Newcomers: Sophomore —AdamFrasher; Freshman —Masson Gross. Eighth grade; Wyatt Harlow, Lincoln Smith.

Outlook: “I’m veryexcitedto havethis up-and-comingteam;it’s a great group of kids,”West said.

—Bill Wilkinson

EmmaSour (D).Freshmen —Grace Blanchard(F), Olivia Dube(F), TorieTatro (D),Audrey McFarland(F), Izzie Mouser (F).

Outlook: After three consecutive state titles,the Yellowjackets fellin thesemifinalslast fallwith anextremely young group. If that’s what Windsor looks like in arebuilding campaign, look out for this season’s squad.Replete withexperience upand downthe roster, theJacks areprimed toreclaimtheir placeatthe topof Division III.

“We have a strong group of girls returning fromlast year with and a strong group of underclassmenwho joinedus this year,”Wardwell said. “All of our girlshave worked hard in the offseasonand have comeinthis fallexcitedand ready to pick up where we left off lastseason —hungry and determined to make it to the state championships.”

WOODS TOCK

Coach: Leanne Tapley (3).

Last year: 15-1, defeated Hartford for state championship.

League: VPA Division II.

Retur ners: Seniors — Gracelyn Laperle(M/capt.), Hannah Gubbins (F/capt.), Claudia Shoemaker (M), QuinnStickney (F),Georgia Tarleton (D), Charley Crowley (D). Juniors —Kamryn Jillson (D), Stella Capurso (F), Laura Audsley (F), Alice Cayer (D). Sophomores — Aleks Cirovic(D), Paige Stone (G).

Newcomers: Junior — LuciaRullo (F).Sophomore —Marley Olmstead (D).

Outlook: The defending champion Waspsare readyto run it back despite losing key seniorslike LilyGubbinsand goalieAudrey Emery.Hannah Gubbinsis backto pace the Woodstockoffense along with co-captain Gracelyn Laperle, and PaigeStone will step intothe startingrole in thecage. MarleyOlmstead,a transfer fromHartford, adds depth to the roster.

VALLEY NEWS —TRIS WYKES

Hanover High junior Lily Smith bounces a field hockey ball on her stick before practice in Hanover.

The Mascoma High bass fishing team heads out onto Mascoma Lake for the NHIAA state bass fishing championship last Oct. 1 in Enfield.

Jolie Reznek

Kara Miller

Fern Day

David Champagne Connor Rice

GOLF

HANOVER

Coach: Joshua Flanders (1)

Last year: seventh out of eight teams at state tournament

League: NHIAA Division I. Home course: Montcalm Golf Club.

Retur ners: Seniors —Adam Goodney,Andrew Cahoon,Trevor Lichtenstein, JakeToulmin; Sophomores —JosephDeSimone, Andrew Cramer.

Newcomers: Senior —Nick Reiss. Juniors —Gus Thompson, BeckettSobel; Freshmen—Ben Ames, JJ Bornstein, Jamie Coughlin, William DeSimone, Julian Hart.

Outlook: Co-captains Goodney and Cahoon bringexperience and each has the ability to shoot par on a givenday. TheBearsboast adeep team with a good group of newcomers.

“We’re excitedand optimistic about thetalent onour team,”Flanderssaid. “We’redeep withreturningathletes andnewfaces whowill contributenow andfor yearsto come. Our focus has been on short game and riskand course management.”

HAR TFORD

Coach: Erin Stevens (2)

Last year: WonVPA Division II sectionals,runner upat statetournament.

League: Vermont Division II

Home courses: Quechee Club, Woodstock Country Club and Larkin Country Club.

Returners: Seniors —Jaden Poirier, Zach Johnson,Sean Dunton; Junior —Matthew Tsouknakis; Sophomore —Thomas Thorburn.

Newcomers: Senior —Christian Hathorn; Junior —Rowan Irvine.

Outlook: Becauseflood damage at The Quechee Club, the Hurricanes arebouncing betweenthree host venues fortheir play. The Canes have19 playersin theprogram. Hathorn is back after playing another sport in 2022,and the upperclassmen all have varsity experience.

“We wantto focuson playing smart golf andmanaging the course, especiallyin pressuremoments,”Stevenssaid. “I’m looking forward toseeing thisgroup ofkids continue topush eachother and have fun on the course every day.”

LEBANON

Coach: Steve Roberts (1)

Last year: Third atNHIAA D-III state championship.

League: NHIAA Division III.

Homecourse: Eastman Golf

Links.

Retur ner: Junior —Ben Britton.

Newcomers: Juniors —Brett Thorpe, NickPetrucci, KyleHines, Nate Dube,Declan Brandis;Sophomores —Lodi Scholtz,Ben Benes; Freshmen: BraedonRogers, Graham Achmoody, Andrew Berndsen, Nate Crane,Logan Massey,John Polk,Marek Rogers,RussellBennett, Nate Thorpe.

Outlook: TheRaiders haveonly one playerback fromlast year’s team alongwith a newhead coach in SteveRoberts. The goal willbe to build experiencefor thecoming yearsand toqualifyfor thestate championship tournament.

RIVENDELL

Coach: Travis Ovitt (1)

League: Vermont Division III.

Homecourse: Lake Morey Country Club.

Retur ners: Seniors —Luke Avery, Parker Piper,Henry Sullivan, Finn O’Donnell, Liam Welch; Junior —Braydon Larson.

Outlook: Parker Henryiscoming offa top-10finish asan individualin the state tournament last season and will partner with Henry Sullivan in leading this year’s team. The Raptors are low in numbers this season under first-year coach Ovitt,an assistant professional atLake Morey,with no first-year varsity members.

STE VENS

Coach: Ryan Seaver (8)

Last year: 8-19, didnotqualify for postseason.

League: NHIAA Division III.

Home course: Claremont Country Club.

Retur ners: Senior —Lydia Redman; Juniors—Justin Demars, Josh Petrin, Ian Gersberg, Aubree Herzog;Sophomores —Elli Girard, Oliver Beeman.

Newcomers: Freshman —Owen Wilkinson.

Outlook: The Cardinalslook to take a big step forward. Wilkinson and Herzoghave playednumerous

tournaments thissummer, helpingto sharpen their games for this fall. “We’re looking to getback into the playoffs,”Seaver said. “Our goal is to bring our short game, honed at Claremont, to the longer courses we play in the division. Our success will depend on how well our game travels.”

THE TFORD

Coach: Barrett Williams (1)

League: Vermont Division III.

Home course: Lake Morey Country Club.

Returners: Junior —Liam Farroit; Sophomore —Carter Williams.

Newcomers: Sophomore — LiamBrooks; Freshman—Ollie Sarazin.

Outlook: “We have a young team that isstill learningthe gameof golf,”Williamssaid. “We’ll spend most ofour timepracticing thebasic fundamentals, which will help the kids keep the ball in play.”

WHITE RIVER VALLEY

Coach: Sam Griffin (2)

League: Vermont Division III.

Home course: Montague Golf Club.

VOLLE YBALL

Retur ners: Juniors —Zander Clark, Wyatt Cadwell; Sophomores —AubreyMackenzie, Finnley Roussel.

Newcomers: Juniors —Dylan Hatch,Braden White;Sophomores —AvaPatch, VanessaCrawford, ImariTaylor, AndrewVanesse,Andrew Champagne; Freshman — Colin Lewis.

Outlook: Thisis theprogram’s second seasonand it senttwo individuslas to lastyear’s sectional postseason. Griffinhopes tohave fourplayers availablefor bothboys and girls matches bythe time the season is in full swing. “Ultimately, we’reaboutbuilding agolfprogram with a solid foundation and fostering improvement and appreciation of the game,”Griffin said.

WINDSOR

Coach: Pat Allen (10)

League: Vermont Division II. Home course: John P.Larkin Country Club.

Retur ners: Senior —Lee Bevis; Junior —Helen Ennis; Sophomores —OdenCramer, EbanMargolis; Freshman — Ben Miller.

Newcomers: Senior —Ernie Hodgdon.

Outlook: Captain LeeBevisis looking to build on a strong season a year ago,when hecompeted inthe sectional playoffs. “We’ll continue to improvethe basicsand workreally hardaround thegreensduring practices,”Allen said.

WOODS TOCK

Coach: Matt Closter (2)

Last year: Boys team was fifth at Vermont Division IIstate tournament.

League: Vermont Division II. Home course: Woodstock Country Club.

Retur ners: Seniors —Owen Kross, Tori McNamara; Juniors — Beck Welch, Andrew Steele.

Newcomers: Sophomores — Sam Bowdoin, MaxwellCarey, Ian Coates, KylerEaton; Freshman— Timothy Moore.

Outlook: The Waspswerehit hard bygraduation. Closteris the director of golf at Woodstock Country Club.“There’s greatpotential among the newcomers to the team,” he said.

—Bill Wilkinson

HANOVER

Coach: Hunter Gosselin (1)

Last year: 6-9, lost infirst roundto ConVal.

League: NHIAA Division II.

Retur ners: Seniors —Rosa Bradley (OPP),Annika Lackstrom(MB), AdaCallaway (MB). Juniors —Laura Schaner (S), Dylan Simpkins (OH).

Newcomers: Senior —Tara Marshall (DS). Juniors —Brealyn Pearl (L), Mackenzie Loughman (DS). Sophomores —Elin

Molina(OH),Claire Starosta(OH),Kate Wehmeyer (L), Rachel Kohl (OPP).

Outlook: It’s a relatively new-look Bears squad this fall under a new coaching staff, and evensome ofthe returnersare playingnew positions.Seven seniorshave departedfrom last year’s Hanover team.

“We arestill working on gettingto know our playersand ourteam’s strengthsand weaknesses,”Gosselin said. “It will be interesting to see howon-court chemistry develops throughout the season. No matter where I have switched them around on the court, they

each have stepped up for the challenge.”

HAR TFORD

Coach: Megan Geiselhart (1)

Last year: Clubteam only; this isthe program’s first varsity season.

League: VPA Division I.

Roster: Senior —Alaina Laplante. Juniors —Felicity Adams, Alex Braley, Melodie Dansereau, LillianParker, NorahWood. Sophomores —Isabella Trombley,Charlotte Winn.

Hanover libero Braelyn Pearl (2) jumps to high five head coach Hunter Gosselin before the start of a game last season against Manchester High School West at Hanover High School in Hanover.

Outlook: Afterjust one season asa clubonly program, the Hurricanes will compete as a full VPA member with a full schedule.

“Wehave asolid groupofathletes whoare working positively as a team and cultivating a growth mindset culture,”said Geiselhart, who is taking over as headcoach for Carlin Martinez. “The athletes made this team sport of volleyballhappen withthesupport offamilies and the school district.”

By Benjamin Rosenberg

VALLEY NEWS FILE

VALLEY NEWS FILE —JENNIFER HAUCK

Stevens’Elli Girard watches her ball while teeing off during a match at Eastman Golf Links last fall.

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