Windham indoor track and field on way to a great season

By Matt Pascarella

In their first meet of the season, Windham’s indoor track and field teams shattered expectations and did a fantastic job against Bonny Eagle, Deering and Falmouth on Saturday, Dec. 16 at the University of Southern Maine in Gorham.

Windham sophomore Sam Hutchinson clears the high jump
bar in an indoor track meet against Bonny Eagle, Falmouth,
and Deering on Saturday, Dec. 16 at the University of
Southern Maine in Gorham.
PHOTO BY MATT PASCARELLA

In the girls’ senior division, Windham finished second with a score of 39. In the junior division they finished first with a score of 44.

In the boys’ senior division, the boys finished third with a score of 31. In the boys’ junior division, they finished first with a score of 55.

Girls

Senior Khalysa Hammith broke her own school record when she jumped 16-5 feet in the long jump and came in second in the senior division.

Hammith also placed first in the 55-meter dash with a 7.75 second time.

“I did set goals for myself to run well,” said Hammith. “I wasn’t setting myself against anything; just go out there and do your best. I feel like having that mentality helped me achieve what I did today. For me and my entire team, the ability to not let our anxiety get the best of us [went well]. That’s what’s important about the first meet is learning to control your emotions and anxieties.”

Hammith said warmup and timing could use a little work.

Sophomore Nealie Morey jumped 5-0 and placed first in the high jump, junior division. Morey also finished first in the triple jump with a distance of 30-4.75.

Sophomore Addison Shanholtz rocketed a height of 5-6 in the pole vault and finished first.

In the long jump, freshman Caroline Cunningham finished first with a distance of 15-2.75.

Sophomore Myla Vercoe finished third in the same event with a 14-4.25 distance.

In the triple jump senior division junior Tayla Pelletier broke a school record and finished first with a distance of 36-9. She placed first and broke another school record in the 55-hurdles with a time of 9.15.

Also in the triple jump, junior Ava Gerrity finished fourth with a 33-6 distance.

“After weeks of phase one preparation training and working to coach-up the event skills needed to safely compete in it, our veteran players worked hard with our large number of new players to build up their confidence to compete,” said Windham girls’ indoor track coach Jeff Riddle. “We met our program goals for this first meet and now we know that our players are ready and excited for many more track and field opportunities together.”

Boys

In the high jump, junior division sophomore Nick Verrill placed first with a height of 5-8. Sophomore Sam Hutchinson placed third with a 5-2 height.

In the long jump, junior division sophomore Mason Arbour jumped 19-1.75 and finished first. Arbour finished first in the triple jump with a 36-8.75 distance.

In the long jump senior division junior Andrew Young finished second with a 17-6.25 distance.

In the shot put, senior Teddy Sanborn came in fourth with a throw of 35-0. Junior Aiden Heath finished 10th with a 29-3 throw.

In the 55-hurdles, senior RJ Biggs finished first with a time of 10.28.

In the 55-dash, senior division Marcus Tillery finished second with a 6.83 time.

Junior Andrew Young finished first in the boys’ 1-mile with a time of 5:01.14.

In the 800, senior division Young finished first with a 2:15.01 time.

“I really wanted to do better than I had in the past,” said Young. “I definitely didn’t expect to go out and do what I did; I’m happy with it; I had personal records in both events. I’m very impressed with everybody. Integrating what Coach Blood has taught us with past stuff we’ve learned [went well]. Everyone has been pushing each other and being great teammates; we just need to [keep] getting better.”

In the boys 400-dash sophomore Connor Witham finished second with a time of 1:01.92. He also finished fourth in the 200 with a 26.21 time.

“The meet was a huge success,” said Windham indoor track boys’ coach Paula Pock. “Almost all of our athletes beat their initial goals for the meet and the win certainly boosted their confidence. Overall, the team worked really hard to get ready for this meet. Athletes stepped up to try new events to make sure we had almost all the events covered and that was what helped us to start the season off with a win.” <

WHS swimmers make great strides against Cape Elizabeth

By Matt Pascarella

Windham High School’s swim team put forth a great effort against the defending state champions Cape Elizabeth during an early season meet at Saint Joseph’s College on Wednesday, Dec. 13. Windham girls lost 104-42 and Windham boys lost 106-18.

Windham senior Grace Theriault keeps pace and form during
a prep swim meet at Saint Joseph's College against Cape
Elizabeth on Wednesday, Dec.13.
PHOTO BY MATT  PASCARELLA

Girls

“I think we all did really good, we all definitely tried our best,” said Windham senior Grace Theriault. “We’ve been working on starts and turns this week and it really showed today – everyone’s starts and turns have been really good. What went well was that everyone pushed themselves and I pushed myself too. A lot of people got really good times and Cape definitely helped push us to go really fast and it showed.”

Windham’s team of sophomore Martina Jefferson, senior Riley Small and juniors Sarah Inman and Diletta Galloni finished third in the 200-yard medley relay with a time of 2:32.42 minutes.

Windham junior Morgan Farley finished third in the 200 freestyle event in a time of 2:21.11. Theriault was right behind her with a 2:22.41 time.

Theriault finished third in the 100 breaststroke in a 1:26.09 time.

In the 50 freestyle Small finished fourth with a 34.70 second time. Galloni was fifth with a time of 37.87.

Farley finished third in the 100 butterfly in a time of 1:17.27.

Small finished second in the 500 freestyle with a 7:25.76 time.

Inman finished first in the 100 backstroke with a time of 1:13.73 and second in the 200-individual medley with a 2:34.72 time.

Boys

Junior Tanner Stresky finished third in the 200 freestyle with a time of 3:33.08.

“I think we did great, we set our goals before the meet, and we conquered them,” said senior Landon Buzulchuck. “We came in with the amount of confidence we had and did what we did. We ... didn’t focus on how good they were, we focused on what we could do as a team. As a whole team we need to work on getting our flip turns more constant, doing it every time and not every other time.”

Buzulchuck said flip turns cheering and confidence all went well. Competing against one of the top teams in the state shows them the competition they have in Maine; going against a top team early in the season can help out because they know who they’re going up against.

In the 50 freestyle event, Hammond finished fourth with a 26.90 time. Washburn was not far behind with a 30.64 time.

Senior Lukas Hammond also finished fourth in the 100 freestyle with a time of 1:06.90.

Senior Joey Somma finished fourth in the 100 backstroke with a time of 1:38.51.

In the 400 relay, the team of Buzulchuck, freshman Mason Butterfield, freshman Sawyer Stone and sophomore Caden Valle came in second with a 5:39.30 time.

“In swimming, you can’t play defense against your opponent,” said Windham swim coach Peter Small. “All you can do is focus on what you do, so we try to instill that mindset. Across the board I’m hard pressed to think of somebody who didn’t achieve what we had hoped to achieve today for improvement and that’s all we can ask for. Some of the kids who don’t have as much experience we were looking for technique; body position – unbelievable. “It exceeded what I thought they’d be able to do while racing by keeping body position. We’ve come so far, and I couldn’t be more pleased with where we are.”

Small said technique needs work; everything from starts and turns to small twitches they’ve got to make in their arm positioning.

“Anytime that you elevate to the competition ... that drive and ability to compete is going to bring it out in you,” said Coach Small. <

Wolfpack wrestling squad earns double tournament wins

By Matt Pascarella

The Windham/Westbrook/Gray New-Gloucester Wolfpack wrestling team traveled to its first preseason meet at Morse High School in Bath in the Westlake Tournament against schools from all over the state on Saturday, Dec. 2 and it was a great trip.

Coaches congratulate Windham High junior
Ayden Cofone for winning his 100th prep
wrestling match. SUBMITTED PHOYO   

Windham/Westbrook/Gray-New Gloucester won with a score of 143. They are champions at the Westlake Tournament for the second year in a row.

Windham junior Ayden Cofone (120 weight class), Westbrook senior Gavin Tanner (175 weight class), and Windham senior Griffin Moreau (285 weight class) all won their weight classes.

Westbrook sophomore Ben Corriveau, Windham senior Chris Harvey, Windham junior CK Kennedy, Windham sophomore Junius Pope and Westbrook freshman Cole Tanner all placed.

On Saturday, Dec. 16 the Wolfpack traveled to Gardiner High School for the Tiger Invitational.

Not only did the Wolfpack win the tournament with a score of 177, but Windham’s Cofone earned his 100th career win.

“One hundred wins shows his dedication to the sport and his desire to show up each and every day ready to compete at a high level,” said Wolfpack coach John Nicholas. “This team title shows that the team is working hard every day and buying into our team first philosophy. We have been filling all the weights and we talk often about how doing that will lead to great things.”

Cofone (126 weight class), Harvey (150) and Tanner (175), all won their weight classes in the championship round.

In the consolation round, Windham junior Addison Leger, Westbrook senior Owen Pilsbury (132), Westbrook freshmen Sajjad Jumaah, Cole Tanner, Moreau and Pope all placed. <

Windham sinks Scarborough in boys’ varsity basketball

By Matt Pascarella

In just their second game of the season, the Windham High varsity boys’ basketball team held off Scarborough and secured a 49-41 win at home on Tuesday, Dec. 12.

Windham junior Creighty Dickson drives for a basket early
during a boys' varsity basketball game against Scarborough
on Tuesday, Dec. 12 at home.
PHOTO BY MATT PASCARELLA

“Scarborough is one of the top teams in the south,” said Windham varsity boys’ basketball coach Chad Pulkkinen. “They have really good size ... we knew it was going to be tough, we just had to continue to play our way and wear them down with our defense. I thought [Windham] guys stuck together pretty well; the first half was tight, the second half was even tighter. Our guys prevailed at the end by sticking together, doing things we do every day. Hats off to our team, but that’s a really good team that we beat, and they’re going to have a good year.”

Pulkkinen said Windham did a good job of being patient and waiting for great shots. The team tries to win as a unit. Windham wanted to use their quickness, skill, and decision-making to combat Scarborough’s size. Defense intensity was outstanding as was rebounding. As a team, he said Windham players care for and all play for each other.

It's early in the season but Pulkkinen and the team are working to close the gap on the things that need improvement while continuing to stick together is the biggest thing and in this game the effort was there.

Windham barely wasted seconds when they scored almost immediately into the first quarter. Intensity was high and Windham went after rebounds that added more points to the scoreboard. Windham sophomore AJ Moody hit a three-pointer, his first of three he connected on during the game.

Defense held Scarborough down early as Windham junior Creighty Dickson had a stellar block. Scarborough was unable to score more than seven points in the first quarter.

“We all brought the energy and got good possessions,” said Dickson. “We pushed the pace, we set the tone at the end, and we controlled the game. We got on the glass really well on the offensive side, our movement of the ball was really good, and we finished well. It’s a good win – we got good possessions at the end; we slowed them down and made [Scarborough] shoot tough shots.”

Dickson said finishing around the rim, transition defense and boxing out still need improvement though.

Early in the second quarter the game was tied at 10. This was a fast-paced, close game and midway through, Scarborough led, 23-22.

Early in the second half, Windham senior Quinton Lindsay sunk a three-pointer. The lead continued to go back and forth. Moody then sunk his second three-pointer and Windham led by four points after the third quarter. Windham’s defense held Scarborough to only seven points in the third quarter.

In the fourth quarter, Windham broke open a tight game. Windham sophomore Tyrie James hit two three-pointers, and Moody hit his final three pointer as the Eagles pulled away from Scarborough and made it impossible for them to recover.

“We started off a little flat in the first ... half,” said James. “I feel like at halftime we turned it around; especially in the end the energy we had, with shots going in I think led to the win. We were making extra passes. They were a great shooting team, but I feel like we held them [score-wise] to under what they usually have, we did good rebounding, too.” <

WMS girls’ basketball teams showcase defense against Lewiston

By Matt Pascarella

Windham Middle School’s seventh and eighth grade girls’ basketball teams played several strong games against Lewiston on Thursday, Dec. 7 at home. Windham eighth graders staged a comeback by halftime to take the lead. Unfortunately, Lewiston edged ahead in the second half to win, 45-33. Windham seventh graders came out aggressive and never let up and defeated Lewiston, 49-29.

Windham seventh grader Carly Franzoni easily maneuvers
around her Lewiston opponent during a girls' basketball
game at home on Thursday, Dec. 7.
PHOTO BY MATT PASCARELLA

Eighth Grade

“Our shots weren’t falling,” said Windham eighth grade girls’ basketball coach Katie Franzoni. “We had some really, really good looks and [shots] just weren’t going down for us, unfortunately. I credit the girls for not giving up. It just wasn’t our night. Our team defense was something we’ve really been focusing on and getting on help side and not just focusing on our own player has been huge for us and trying to rebound a little bit better. We need to focus and make those easy ... shots that were there. We need to be in more pressure situations to make those shots.”

Lewiston took an early lead, but shots weren’t falling early for either team, and by the end of the first quarter, neither team had scored 10 points. Lewiston had several turnovers which added to their lead, but Windham fought hard.

Windham rebounded and slowly began to climb up the scoreboard. They hustled and were soon not far behind the Blue Devils. Windham had strong defense and pressured more. Shortly before the end of the first half, the game was tied at 16. A moment before the buzzer went off, Windham pulled ahead 17-16.

The game was tied at 19 early in the second half and remained close. Windham’s efforts were there. They fought hard for the ball, but Lewiston had a big lead as the game progressed. With time running out, the deficit was too much for Windham to make up.

“They were a really good team,” said Eliana Kostopoulos. “Our shots weren’t falling, and everyone was getting frustrated. We had good looks ... we had a couple good ... passes and everyone was working well on offense. They had a solid team; they knew what they were doing.”

Both Kostopoulos and teammate Jennifer Schwarz agreed that getting down on themselves may have contributed to the loss.

“We were doing good on communication,” said Schwarz. “Be sure to keep our heads high as a way to improve.

Seventh grade

The lead was Windham’s early on. They grabbed rebounds and kept the baskets coming. They moved the ball well, had nice defense and teamwork. Their offense could not be stopped.

“We talked and did really well on passing,” said Carly Franzoni. “We did a good job ... shooting and we hustled, and we are really close as a team, and that really helped with our defense.

Windham was hungry for the win and would not be stopped. They were quick to grab second chance opportunities.

Lewiston struggled with Windham defense. At the half the Lady Eagles led 31-16.

In the second half, Lewiston was slowly catching up, but Eagle offense remained strong. Windham’s Madisen Vallerie and Franzoni both hit three-pointers.

“Team communication and our mental game [need improvement],” said Peyton McLean.

By the end of the fourth quarter, Windham was way out in front and would not be caught.

“Big thing I say with basketball is defense wins games,” said Windham seventh grade girls’ basketball coach Darcey Gardiner. “I love how well we pass the ball offensively; I think we share really well. My point guards are able to see the floor, which really helps out. Boxing out [needs improvement]; we ... forget put your body on someone first then go get the ball.

While Gardiner is impressed with Windham’s help side defense, she thinks it will definitely be better when January rolls around. <

WHS competes in girls’ varsity basketball Sebago Lake Showdown Tournament

By Matt Pascarella

Before the start of the regular season on Friday, Dec. 8 when Windham will travel to face Lewiston, the WHS varsity girls’ basketball team played their first preseason game at home in the Sebago Lake Showdown Tournament against South Portland on Tuesday, Dec. 5.

Windham sophomore Marley Jarvais attempts a layup during
a preseason girls' basketball game against South Portland
as part of the Sebago Lake Showdown Tournament on
Tuesday, Dec. 5. PHOTO BY MATT PASCARELLA

The games were the same number of minutes, just played in two 16-minute halves instead of four quarters. Windham worked hard right up until the final buzzer but fell to South Portland, 39-23.

“Three of our starting varsity players are out; I think we need the extra games as much as we can,” said Windham sophomore Marley Jarvais. “I think having three varsity players out, all of us being more supportive of each other is just going to help us way more as the season goes on especially in our game against Lewiston coming up. Our shooting 100 percent outside went well; we did a lot better in the second half with our passing and not trying to rush things as much. We’ve worked on zone ... I think we did a really good job, but it might need a little improvement with covering the middle. We did pretty good for [the team] being mostly non-varsity starters and no upper classmen.”

Windham began the game moving the ball well and communicated on the floor. Windham sophomore Kendra Eubanks put Windham on the scoreboard with a three-pointer.

Windham grabbed rebounds early, but many shots weren’t falling. South Portland was able to maintain a small lead in the first half. Eubanks sunk another three-pointer that was nothing but net.

Windham was slowly gaining on the Red Riots. Windham sophomore Addison Caiazzo sunk a three-pointer as Windham worked to close the gap before the first buzzer.

“We have to learn to just go at our own pace instead of speeding things up or seeing what the other team is trying to make us do,” said Caiazzo. “Our shooting was pretty good; we were able to hit shots when we needed to; our passes were pretty good and we’re really good at going to the basket. Confidence needs improvement; being able to play at that next level.”

Halfway through the game, South Portland led, 19-12.

Windham’s intensity remained strong in the second half; they were not going down without a fight. The Lady Eagles were not far off the lead and Windham’s effort never dwindled. They took several shots at the basket, but not every shot fell. Windham freshman Denali Momot hit a three-pointer early in the second half.

“I found it helpful [to have this extra time to play] because we’re missing a couple of our starters, so it’s definitely getting our bench some education ... more playing time on varsity and experience,” said Eubanks. “It helps build our stamina. We need to be confident and aggressive and use the ball well. We shot very well, passed the ball very well, looked ... everywhere before we passed the ball.”

According to Eubanks rebounding and pushing the ball and being smarter with the ball could use some work.

“We did some good things as a team,” said Windham varsity girls basketball coach Brody Artes. “We don’t want to be playing our best basketball right now. We want to kind of continue to grow and progress over the course of the season. I thought our second half ball movement and offense was much, much better. A couple kids hit some shots and really started to step up and do some good things for us overall. We got to take care of the ball a little bit better and value the ball a little bit more. We had some turnovers in the first half, we’ve got to limit those ... for sure. Defensively, we have just got to get after it and continue to work hard ... we got to make sure we contest all the shots, but then rebound when there are a lot of rebounds.”

Windham will meet Gorham in a home game on Dec. 19. <

Raymond basketball teams improving with each game

By Matt Pascarella

On Dec. 1, in their second game of the season, Raymond boys’ and girls’ basketball teams had two effort-filled games against Old Orchard Beach at Jordan- Small Middle School in Raymond.

Raymond seventh grader Silvia Roma passes to a teammate
on Friday, Dec. 1 in a girls basketball game against Old
Orchard Beach at Jordan-Small Middle School in Raymond.
PHOTO BY MATT PASCARELA

The Raymond boys worked hard to turn the game around but lost, 47-36. The Raymond girls had quite a nailbiter that came down to the final seconds with Raymond holding onto a small lead. When the buzzer sounded, the girls fell, 30-29.

Boys

“I was really proud of the effort,” said Raymond boys’ basketball coach Andrew Wing. “We had a really good practice yesterday and everything we worked on I think we got better at – defense, getting back in transition, not giving up as many layups. The press was much better today, cleaner defense.”

Wing said even though defense was better today, it can still improve and on offense free throws need a little work.

Old Orchard Beach jumped out to an early lead.

Raymond moved the ball and had several shots at basket. Eighth grader Sean Lebel put Raymond on the scoreboard when he had a fast break and took the ball straight to the hoop.

Old Orchard Beach grabbed several rebounds and had a 15-8 lead after one quarter. JSMS would make a strong attempt to turn the game around.

Raymond excelled on defense; and eighth grader Liam Buckley had a nice block.

Lebel had another fast break and JSMS put a bunch of points on the scoreboard. It was 23-13, Old Orchard Beach at the half.

The JSMS defense intensified and soon they were eight points away from tying the game.

“We played a lot better than last game,” said Lebel, who scored 25 points. “We still got beat in transition a little bit, but we were able to clean up a lot of things, we didn’t have as many turnovers on offense. The way we were able to get back on defense and get turnovers [went well]; not forcing turnovers for us.”

Raymond grabbed rebounds and seventh grader Cameron Lawler hit a three-pointer. A short time later, they were within four points of tying the game. Then only two points separated the teams.

Unfortunately, Old Orchard Beach pulled away. Nine points separated the team. Raymond fought until the very end.

“We definitely scored more points than last game said Lawler. “We need to work on defense; we’ve been passing better and putting the ball up more.”

Girls

Raymond took the court aggressively. They communicated and although Old Orchard Beach snagged several turnovers and jumped to an early lead. Raymond wasn’t about to let that stand.

Eighth grader Brooklyn Roy put Raymond on the scoreboard. Raymond seventh grader Silvia Roma had a fast break and Raymond led by two after one quarter.

Raymond continued to get rebounds and the game was close. Raymond pulled ahead. They kept Old Orchard Beach virtually scoreless in the second quarter. It was 17-11, Raymond midway through.

The Raymond team wasted no time and scored early in the second half. The game got much closer and only two points separated the teams. Roma had back-to-back baskets as Raymond held onto the lead.

“We worked well as a team,” said Roma, who scored 12 points. “We really pulled together and worked hard and ... we did get a little tired towards the end and some of us were not hustling as much and not calling out who we had, so I think we could work on that.”

Roma was proud of how the team played.

With 33 seconds left one point separated the teams. Raymond worked hard to stay ahead, but Old Orchard Beach was able to edge ahead in the end.

“When we are up, it’s ok to recognize to slow things down, when we’re down then we got to go,” said Raymond girls’ basketball coach Deb Lebel. “They played great defense today, so much better than a week ago, they are improving in their help defense. They are really young, and the more practice they get, the better off we’ll be.” <

Trail Blazers ice hockey off to great start in preseason

By Matt Pascarella

The Windham/Westbrook/Bonny Eagle’s Trail Blazers ice hockey team started the preseason off with a couple of strong games at the University of Southern Maine in Gorham on Friday, Nov. 24, facing Scarborough and Gorham.

Trail Blazers junior Phillip Trainor of Windham keeps his
eyes on the puck during a game against Gorham at the
University of Southern Maine on Friday, Nov. 24.
PHOTO BY MATT PASCARELLA

The Trail Blazers rallied from behind and got within one goal of tying the game with Scarborough but eventually fell, 5-4. The squad then overwhelmed Gorham, 6-3, after a barrage of goals in the third period made it impossible for the Rams to get ahead.

“They hustled, showed grit, and they played well,” said Trail Blazers coach Bobby Fothergill. “There was plenty of puck moving and they had a shooter’s mentality. You shoot more pucks; you score more goals, and the proof is in the pudding. We are really deep. We have really good talented forwards and we got guys who can shoot the puck. I thought their overall game was really good ... I thought the power plays were unbelievable, and we haven’t even practiced it; that needs to be a weapon for us. Every power play we had, we scored on, except one. Shoot the puck more, pucks go in.

Fothergill told the team to go out there, relax, have fun, and make plays – scoring goals is fun and they did it.

Scarborough

The Trail Blazers moved the puck as well as fought for it in the first period. They had several shots at goal. With six minutes left in the period, Bonny Eagle Trail Blazers senior Lucas Laforest scored. After one period, Scarborough led, 3-1.

In the second period Trail Blazers were quick to the puck, continued shots on goal and fought hard to turn this game around. The Trail Blazers’ offense was tough, but so was Scarborough defense. After two periods, Scarborough remained on top, 5-2.

Laforest scored early in the third period. Windham Trail Blazers junior Ben Shaw fired from close range and the Trail Blazers were one goal away from a tie game. Trail Blazers defense kept Scarborough scoreless in the third period but couldn’t get ahead.

“I think we had a rough start,” said Trail Blazers Bonny Eagle sophomore Mason Caron. “We had some good plays and that third period we came out buzzing. We came out quick, moving our feet and passing the puck, we just couldn’t get enough scoring chances, but we played hard all the way to the end. We moved the puck well, got a lot of shots on net, had good “D” zone. [If we] played the body a little bit more and not let Scarborough skate it in all the way, we may have been able to reverse the score.”

Gorham

The Trail Blazers passed well and tied the game 1-1 after Trail Blazers Bonny Eagle freshman Colby Bailey scored. The Trail Blazers had several shots at goal and never let up. Gorham led 2-1 after one period.

Both teams prevented their opponent from scoring in the second period.

In the third period, the Trail Blazers kicked it up several notches when Bonny Eagle Trail Blazers senior Aiden Toy scored in the first 15 seconds. A very, very short time later Toy scored again, and Trail Blazers had the lead. Windham Trail Blazers senior Tobias Perkins scored.

Windham Trail Blazers junior Phillip Trainor added to their lead when he shot the puck in after it slipped through the goalie’s legs. Windham Trail Blazers freshman Trevor Baillargeon capped off the game when he scored.

“The motivation with being held off the board [contributed to the win],” said Trainor. It was a sluggish first two periods and we got our legs in the third. We started firing and pucks went in the net. We felt like we couldn’t score on them, and we started shooting and pucks went in. We moved the puck pretty well and played physical.” <

Windham grad Beem hopes hard work helps her overcome injuries

By Matt Pascarella

Windham’s Riley Beem is currently a junior playing for the lacrosse team at Franklin Pierce University in New Hampshire majoring in health science. She plans to apply to the school’s doctorate physical therapy program.

Franklin Pierce University junior and Windham High
School graduate Riley Beem moves around a
defender during a collegiate lacrosse game at
Southern New Hampshire University in 2022.
PHOTO BY JENN MULLIN  

Beem wants to become a physical therapist and is very interested in working in orthopedics or alongside athletes to help them through injury rehabilitation. When she attended Windham High School, Beem, WHS Class of 2020, was a four-sport star athlete and as a high school sophomore, she competed in the U.S. Lacrosse Women’s National Tournament in Baltimore, Maryland.

“Lacrosse was such a positive experience for me at a young age because I didn’t feel as much pressure to go out on the field and perform to a certain level expected by coaches,” said Beem. “It was a learning experience for everyone involved. The more I was involved in lacrosse, the more the sport grew and evolved, which made me love the sport even more.”

She was fortunate to start on a full team of seniors at Franklin Pierce University. Unfortunately, three games into her freshman year, she dislocated her elbow, which took her out for the entire season. Beem had to learn to adapt and fulfill a role on a team despite not being able to play.

Returning for her sophomore year, she was excited to get back on the lacrosse field. In October 2022, she tore her anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in a fall ball tournament. She was unable to play for her entire sophomore season and needed knee surgery and nine months of intense rehabilitation.

“Riley is a huge asset to our team,” said Sammi Gallant, her teammate and a Franklin Pierce University graduate student. “Her skills are high level, and it is shown in how she competes on the field. Even with her not being able to play the last two years, she has become a leader in this program. Everyone looks up to her and respects everything she has to say. She is always ... available for advice when anyone needs it. Riley is the epitome of a great teammate, and I am so excited to be on the field with her this year.”

Beem said she’s learned in her recovery process for her ACL that you have to take things one day at a time and celebrate the small victories; whether it was a few more degrees bending her knee or learning to run again. It was necessary to celebrate the small accomplishments because recovery takes longer than you want it to.

“Although being injured is something I would never wish on anyone, it taught me so much about myself as a person and a player,” said Beem. “I had to adapt and find ways to make valuable contributions to my team from the sideline.”

It was very important to her to still be able to contribute and have a positive impact on her team. Beem learned that being on the sideline helped to improve her game awareness and IQ. She provided her perspective to her team on what she saw from the sideline, giving advice and feedback about what could be fixed or improved on.

“I fortunately have been able to watch Riley play since her freshman year on campus,” said Franklin Pierce University interim head women’s lacrosse coach Caroline Lounsbury. “Her work ethic and competitiveness are both something that shows consistently every day she is on the field, and that energy is contagious to her teammates. Even while going through the recovery process for both injuries each year, she selflessly has shown up for her teammates from the sideline. She has been able to see the game from a different perspective ... this has tremendously helped not only her game, but her teammates as well.”

For Beem, being part of athletics at Windham taught her that nothing is handed to you. A strong work ethic and coachability allowed her to succeed on the field and in the classroom. She said something she learned from playing on different Windham teams was if you want something you’re going to have to work for it; that might mean putting in more outside time and energy than others.

Her advice to high school athletes who want to play collegiately is to believe in yourself and your capabilities. Start looking at schools and reaching out to coaches early because it’s better to have more options.

When not on the field, Beem’s spare time goes toward homework as her grades are very important to her. She also likes to relax with her friends, run, play basketball or pickleball. She also attends a lot of Franklin Pierce University sporting events. <

Windham High’s 1966 basketball champions brought love for game to community

By Matt Pascarella

The 1966 Windham basketball team were a talented group of players who ended the season with a great record (14-3 overall) and won the Cumberland County Conference, or Triple-C championship, against Bonny Eagle 60-47 at Bonny Eagle High School. But they were more than that. This was a group of young men who really loved the game, and played it any opportunity they had, regardless of weather or temperature. And that spirit and those feelings of pride still remain today for those who were there to experience the excitement of that season.

The 1966 Windham High School boys' basketball team
became Cumberland County Conference champions by
beating Bonny Eagle, 60-47. at Bonny Eagle High School.
The players loved the game and helped younger players
succeed on the court. COURTESY PHOTO  

“It was a time and a team to remember,” said former 1966 Windham basketball captain and now Standish resident Jim O’Brien. “It was just a great team ... Something the town had never seen, once we got beyond six or eight wins, word started to get out this team might be good.”

On Friday nights the Windham gymnasium was packed with supporters waiting to see their Windham basketball team take the court. The bleachers were filled; people were standing in the lobby, against the wall and on the stage in anticipation of the start of the game. There was a pep squad, a live band, and cheerleaders who would get the crowd going. Everyone was there to show their support.

Basketball kept the town alive in the winter. You couldn’t get a seat unless you showed up early. It was a community event and the entire community showed up to support their team.

In 1964, when Windham opened the then-new high school, a new basketball coach came with it, Bryce Beattie. He had coached at Freeport and won three or four state championships in the previous five years. Beattie was a disciplined coach and different from what Windham players had ever experienced.

The team was talented, but Coach Beattie had a lot to do with their success; he was the driving force. There was no messing around; it was Beattie’s way, or you weren’t playing.

“That ’66 team was the best team that ever came out of Windham in my mind,” said Raymond resident Don Forbes and member of the 1973 Windham basketball team, who also won the Triple C championship. “They had great height, they had great ball handling abilities, they had shooting, they were 10 men deep on that basketball team. They had competition from the first day, right to the end of the season and everybody wanted to play.”

According to O’Brien, in 1966 WHS seniors Alvin Dennison, Allan Libby, Don McGlinchey, and O’Brien would score in double figures on any given night and averaged 72 to 75 points a game; and that was before the three-point shot was adopted. O’Brien and Dennison were MVPs of that 1966 team.

“I don’t think anyone really cared who scored the most, we all wanted to win,” said O’Brien.

Beattie started the Saturday morning basketball program in 1966 where older players would help train the younger players. After all the excitement of Friday night, the entire Windham basketball team would show up in the gym on Saturday morning and teach skills of the game to fifth graders who would later become Windham’s 1973 Triple C champions. This program still exists today.

“We would never have played basketball if it weren’t for Bryce Beattie and the Saturday morning basketball program that they started,” said Forbes. “He turned this basketball program into something that was just a marvelous thing. I want to thank that ’66 team and let them know how important they were to us. We were very fortunate to have the people to support us. I want to thank everyone from Coach Beattie all the way up, it’s just incredible. I can’t tell you how special it really was.”

O’Brien met his wife, Sandy, at Windham High School. They later married and have been together for more than 50 years.

“It was very gratifying to know that he was my boyfriend, at the time,” said Sandy O’Brien. “You looked forward to the ball game; you get this high that you just can’t explain. We cheered the whole team – [Jim] was the best; we would get the crowd going. It was a great bunch of people. I remain friends with quite a few of them.”

The games were so popular that they had organized travel buses to take fans and cheerleaders to away games and those seats filled quickly. They needed three buses to transport supporters to away games. There was a lot of spirit, from everyone, not just classmates and cheerleaders, behind this Windham team.

“You never forget it,” said Jim O’Brien. “I have really good memories of it. We definitely had an enjoyable senior year, and it was definitely because of the basketball. It was an amazing team. There was a lot of spirit and a lot of talent; [we] still got the spirit.” <

WMS soccer coach dispenses life lessons while emphasizing teamwork

By Matt Pascarella

One of the things Windham Middle School girls’ soccer coach Aaron Talon loves about sports is being able to compete.

He grew up playing sports and majored in physical education at Saint Joseph’s College. He began coaching in 1999 and has been a physical education teacher at Windham Middle School for the past nine years but has been teaching physical education for 24 years altogether.

WMS physical education teacher and
eighth grade girls' soccer coach Aaron
Talon just finished his second season 
as a soccer coach and inspires his
athletes to work together as a team to
achieve desired results.
PHOTO BY MATT PASCARELLA 

Talon has previously coached varsity baseball and golf at Gray New Gloucester High School, varsity baseball at Windham High School, and girls’ soccer and boys’ outdoor track at Windham Middle School.

“At the middle school level, we want the athletes to learn how to work as a team,” said Talon, who just wrapped up his second year of coaching eighth grade girls’ soccer at WMS. “This includes respecting each other and listening to everyone’s thoughts and ideas and building trust between all of us.”

At Saint Joseph’s College, he played baseball and says that he always enjoyed sports and wanted to pursue a career involving athletics.

Talon taught physical education at Gray New Gloucester High School for 15 years. While there he coached varsity baseball for 10 years and varsity golf for five years.

While coaching at Gray New Gloucester High School, he made some strong connections to players and coaches at Windham High School. At that time, they shared coaching responsibilities with American Legion Baseball during the summer. He wanted to take a break from head coaching to spend time with his family, and being an assistant coach for the Windham High School’s baseball team was an opportunity to continue coaching.

While coaching at Windham High, a teaching position opened up at Windham Middle School. Talon thought it was a good time to make a change in his professional career.

Both his daughters played soccer for Windham Middle School and at Windham High School. He saw this as an opportunity to get involved with the program.

“He allows us to do what we need to do on and off the field,” said Windham Middle School girls’ soccer eighth grader Shea Carey. “He supports us in our academics and ... has us doing exercises that help us get better endurance. I learned how to really trust my team and I learned many different defensive skills and how to work with the girls on my team and become basically a family.”

His WMS girls’ soccer team had a very impressive season this year. They had a lot of returning players who played on the seventh-grade team. The eighth-grade team finished its season undefeated. Having so many experienced players helped this group achieve such an impressive accomplishment.

“The success belongs 100 percent to the student athletes,” said Talon. “They are the ones who show up each day, put the time in and work hard.”

His favorite thing about being a coach is taking a group of athletes with different levels of experience, beliefs and backgrounds and watching them work together to achieve a common goal.

“He makes sure we’re always having fun,” said WMS girls’ soccer eighth grader Jennifer Schwarz. “He’s really nice and a really good coach, always super supportive, and he makes good drills for us. I learned to really talk to my team.”

Talon enjoys playing golf and watching his daughters play basketball at the University of Maine and Saint Joseph’s College. <

WHS Varsity Esports wraps up regular season with win over Connecticut

By Matt Pascarella

Windham High School added an Esports team to its fall group of varsity teams in 2021. Esports is short for electronic sports and is a form of competitive video gaming. In the final game of the regular season, Windham played Weston High School of Connecticut and defeated them 2-0 on Tuesday, Nov. 14.

Windham varsity Esports senior Lynn Roberts watches
teammate Justin Chavez, a junior, as he plays 'League of
Legends' during an Esports match on Tuesday, Nov. 14
at Windham High School.
PHOTO BY MATT PASCARELLA   

Competing in the Northeast Region, Windham is ranked fourth overall and has qualified for the postseason playoffs which will begin Dec. 6.

Windham’s Esports team plays a multiplayer game called “League of Legends,” where two teams on either side of a playing field clash in the middle and battle it out with the goal being to destroy the opposing team’s base. Matches are best two out of three games. There is also a physical aspect where the team spends time in the weight room.

“I’ve always liked video games,” said Windham senior Aidan Poitras. “I feel like it’s important [to have Esports at Windham] because most are introverted ... and it’s really nice to get out and do this, especially with gamer friends. I think it’s healthy.”

Esports teaches strategy, teamwork, communication, and problem solving. Windham’s team communicated extremely well through both matches and that is one of the key factors that helped them earn both wins. They also practice together like other varsity teams.

“Those that may not want to play a physical sport, [Esports] allows them the opportunity to still get some hand-eye coordination and it’s important to offer different types of sports,” said Windham varsity Esports coach Michelle Lane. “It’s also a collegiate sport and they can take it to the next level. They are talking continuously, asking for help, or letting each other know where they’re at or what objective they’re going after and who needs to be there.”

Since Windham had a couple losses earlier in the season, they readjusted the roles of some of the players and they seem to have found the perfect fit as “League of Legends” has many facets with many characters to learn.

In the first match, Windham picked the stronger characters which overpowered their opponent. Windham had good team dynamics and communication is very important when it comes to wins and losses in Esports.

Windham senior Alex Pooler said Esports is underrepresented. He said that there are a lot of people who can’t play sports but can play Esports. Esports helps to offer clearer communication. It’s really dependent upon teamwork because in most cases you can’t win alone.

The team has gotten much better as the season has progressed. This year was more game-focused and thinking about how the game will play out before the game starts. Everyone needs to be on board with the ideas and strategies planned before beginning a match.

“Both matches were very late-game focused,” said Pooler. “The farther we got into the game, the stronger both teams got. Both matches we were talking a lot. Before the match started, we had a good idea of what we were planning; we picked our characters well so we could win.” <

Tales from the Outdoors: Tick…Tock….

 By Bob Chapin

No…not the Chinese social media site…that is Tic Tok. This is the time that is escaping you if you haven’t begun your personal checklist of things to get done off your honey- do list so you can get to the things you really want to do to get ready for the coming deer season. The drawing date for the Any Deer permit has already passed and if you were not fortunate to get selected you may still be able to purchase a permit that is left over after all hunters wanting a permit for that particular Wildlife Management Area are satisfied. The window to purchase an additional any-deer permit in select WMA’s opened Nov. 6 at 9 a.m.

Pheasant hunting season in Maine runs through Dec. 30 and
adult hunters have a daily bag limit of two, either sex.
COURTESY PHOTO

By now you should have checked in with the landowners who have given you permission to hunt their land in the past to see if you are still welcome there this year. Land uses change frequently, and it is your responsibility to confirm that you still have access. Owners die, sell all or parts of their property, subdivide or get zoning changes they ask for or get imposed upon them, neighbors have schools built where they used to farm and conservation easements could affect whether you can hunt there or not…. always check. Good farmland and woodlots are disappearing at a rapid rate. Don’t be surprised should a land use change such that it precludes you hunting your favorite spot.

If you were thinking about a food plot you are already too late. Too bad because with all the rain we have been experiencing, the fields are lush with vegetation. There may be a late-season variety that you could still get a crop out of but you are better off now investing in attractants versus trying to grow something. Use your scouting time to locate an abandoned homestead with an apple or fruit tree orchard. The deer know where they are and will eventually hit them, but it tends to be later in the season.

If you haven’t tried pheasant hunting in Maine, you are missing a real treat and a bargain. The state stocks approximately 21 sites throughout Cumberland and York counties and they are identified on the Department of Inland Fisheries & Wildlife web site. The stocking schedule started Sept. 28, skipped a week then resumed for the next two weekends in October. The state, with the assistance of several Rod and Gun Clubs, places between 25 to 35 birds at each location each stocking evenly split between cocks and hens, and both are fair game. The season for adult hunters started Oct. 1 and closes Dec. 30 with a daily bag limit of two, either sex.

Pheasants are an excellent bird to start new hunters. They are a relatively easy target to hit, even with 20 gauge or .410 shotguns, but when they hold tight until you are right on top of them, their loud raucous cackling and wing beats can startle even the most experienced hunter and make their escape good without a shot being fired. Should that happen to you, watch where they fly and glide to as you may get a second chance. One caution though if you are using a young dog, a big ole cock pheasant can startle a dog as well. Also be careful about discharging a shotgun too close to a young dog unless you have acclimated the dog to the discharge by starting the dog a ways away from the gun and gradually reduce the distance to get him or her used to the sound.

Unfortunately, every year an over-eager hunter who has not done his field homework can ruin a good dog for the rest of the dog’s life. I witnessed such an occasion at a dove hunt in Virginia one year. The thoughtless hunter berated his dog for not fetching downed birds, but he somehow missed the fact his dog was cowering under his chair at the report of his owner’s shotgun…a terrible thing to do to a dog.

As hunters age they are less inclined to climb into tree stands, especially the climbing variety that takes a bit of athleticism to jack themselves up a tree. The advantage they give the hunter is amazing as they shield a lot of their movements on stand from vigilant deer eyes and their scent from acute noses. I did not get into a tree stand until quite late in my hunting career once I began archery hunting. I could not believe the difference it made in the number of deer I was seeing and how close they would come to where I was. In just one morning’s sit I had 19 deer in sight and 11 of those were within bow range. Unfortunately, every year hunters are injured or killed in falls from tree stands, usually homemade ones. Always use a safety harness from the moment you leave the ground. It can save your life. And it is always a good idea to tell a reliable adult where you are going and when you expect to return. Better to suffer the embarrassment of having to get cut down out of your harness than the alternative.

The older I get the more I like ladder stands and ground blinds. The ladder stands, correctly installed can be very stable both for your comfort and as a shooting platform. Be sure and pre-flight carefully any stands that you have left out since last season for rotted tie down straps, support poles that may have slipped, and debris that may have accumulated on the foot platform and seat. Climb up and sit in the stand as you would when hunting to see if you need to trim any vegetation that may be blocking your view and shooting lanes. As I return to my truck from a stand location, I clear my path of any downed limbs and install reflector tacks so I can find the stand in the dark. I put some ground blinds out yesterday and was amazed at how much the undergrowth has grown up. Don’t you be surprised on the morning you had hoped to hunt… good hunting! <

Field hockey coach aims for players to develop life skills outside of sports

By Matt Pascarella

Like many coaches, Windham Middle School field hockey coach and seventh-grade English and Language Arts teacher Emily Grudzien began playing sports at a young age, but it wasn’t until she tried field hockey that she felt she really succeeded in a sport. It was a way for her to grow her confidence in middle and high school and feel like she was part of something outside her social circle.

WMS field hockey coach and
seventh-grade English and 
Language Arts teacher Emily
Grudzien has just finished 
coaching field hockey where
here team went undefeated. She 
says coaching is a way for her
to connect with students outside
of the classroom.
SUBMITTED PHOTO 

Grudzien just finished her first season as a middle school field hockey coach and the team finished the season undefeated with an impressive record of 6-0-1.

She stopped playing field hockey in college and began working in outdoor education, where she focused on whitewater canoeing instructing. Working with young people to develop technical skills while creating a community and sense of belonging has transferred well into her position as a field hockey coach.

“Coaching is a great way for me to connect with students outside of the classroom, much in the way I would with students on backcountry trips,” said Grudzien.

Originally from New Hampshire, Grudzien graduated from Saint Lawrence University where she studied English and environmental studies. When she worked in outdoor education, she would lead trips in cross country skills, backpacking and downhill skiing. Her mom was a teacher, and she considers it to be her dream job.

What drew Grudzien to coaching field hockey was it had always been a catalyst for her to break out of her shell in middle school. She could redefine herself apart from stressful social dynamics during the school day. She wanted to provide that same opportunity for her team, many of whom she has currently or has had previously as students.

“She would help the team out if anything happened or there was a situation where the team needed [it],” said Windham seventh grader and field hockey player Hayley Johnsen. “I learned how to take a hard drive and be responsible [and] I learned how to have good positioning in games.”

Johnsen had fun this season and plans to play again next year.

The Windham Middle School field hockey team had a great turnout this season with a variety of player abilities that were able to learn and grow from watching each other. Grudzien gives credit to Windham High School field hockey coach Cory DiDonato and others who have invested in players year-round at the youth level.

“At the middle school level, we are often teaching more about life lessons than field hockey skills,” said Grudzien. “Concepts like preparedness, teamwork, compromise, leadership and timeliness are all lessons we tried to impress on our players this season.”

The squad impressed her and Windham Middle School assistant field hockey coach Alexandra Belaire with their energy and excitement around their winning streak and also with their supporting of members of their team.

“Being her assistant coach was so much fun,” said Belaire. “Emily brings enthusiasm around the sport of field hockey and brings the 'why.' She constantly was managing players who were at a lower level all the while running corner plays. She is such an asset to WMS athletics because she has experience and is young. The players learned how to have fun and love the sport.”

Grudzien’s goal for her first season was to develop fundamental skills for beginning players, introduce more advanced players to higher-level skills and create a sense of belonging and unity among players. Regardless of skill level, how players feel when they come to practice or play in a game has a big impact on whether they return in the future; she wants everyone to return next season.

“I love being in an environment where I can focus on building relationships with students [and] players,” said Grudzien. “This is the part I miss most from working in outdoor education—bonding with a group of kids around a common cause.”

After graduating from college, Grudzien worked for two years at the Chewonki Foundation in Wiscasset, where she led backcountry trips for kids of all ages. She now lives in Raymond in a log cabin and loves to hike and paddle when not coaching. <

Windham boys’ soccer battles through to second penalty-kick round against Portland

By Matt Pascarella

In an impressive defensive battle, top-ranked Windham went toe-to-toe with fourth-ranked Portland in the boys’ varsity soccer semifinal round at Windham High School on Thursday, Nov. 2. In the end, it came down to a second round of penalty kicks where Portland outscored Windham and left the field with a 1-0 victory. Windham ended the season with a record of 14-1-1.

Windham junior Luke Cunniffe looks to get by a Portland
defender at Windham High on Thursday, Nov. 2 in a
boys' varsity soccer semifinal playoff match.
PHOTO BY MATT PASCARELLA

“The players recognize how much is on the line and the stakes of it all,” said Windham varsity boys’ soccer coach Jeff Neal. “At this level, a coach doesn't need to tell the players to dig deep. This group, from well before the season started, wanted to make a deep playoff run. They really care about one another and playing the best soccer possible. That's all the motivation needed when the game gets long. This is an awesome group of young men, and the future is bright.”

When Coach Neal looks back on the season, a lot stands out. Going undefeated in the regular season; defense and goalkeeper notching eight shutout victories, the program beating rivals Gorham and Scarborough, the embracing of players for community events like Red Card Cancer initiative and connecting with Middle School teams and Windham Youth Soccer players. This was a special group on and off the pitch; they all wanted to keep working.

Windham moved the ball well in the beginning of the semifinal match. This was a physical game. The entire team was aggressive and fought to be first to the ball. The Eagle defense prevented several scoring opportunities for Portland. Windham had many runs at Portland’s goal in an attempt to score, but Portland’s defense was strong.

Windham junior Luke Cunniffe had a shot at goal toward the end of the first half.

“The tension was high because we knew Portland was one of the top teams in the state,” said Cunniffe. “We knew we were going to focus on Portland’s midfield and Garrett [Crossman] and Dan [Hancock] did a good job of slowing them down. The game was electric.”

In the second half, Windham worked to get closer to Portland’s goal.

Windham Junior Lukas Hammond recorded save after save in an incredible display of skill and agility. He had nine saves off 11 Portland shots including two saves in the first round of penalty kicks.

“The pressure was definitely there,” said Hammond. “I felt like the whole town had my back, but my defense, my whole team, they were right there with me. Our defense the whole game we kept it even. We were really close; we never got down or mad at each other, we always tried to work through it together. You always face adversity in a season, it’s just a matter of when.”

Windham senior Nick Marion rocketed the ball at the Portland goal late in regulation.

Marion broke the school record for single-season scoring with an amazing 34 goals.

“Credit can go to my teammates and coaches for motivating me and putting me in spots to execute,” said Marion. “Like Coach Neal has always said, the game can make your day and break your heart. This game was just one of those heartbreakers. We fought until the end, and I couldn’t be prouder of my teammates in how much they wanted to win this one. Sometimes it just doesn’t go your way no matter how hard you fight.”

The semifinal game remained scoreless at the end of regulation play.

In the first and second rounds of overtime, every Windham player pushed through any pain and kept fighting. No one let up for even a second.

Windham junior Sam Rogers and Cunniffe scored early in penalty kicks to give Windham the 2-0 advantage.

“We went into the game with zero losses and weren’t super scared to play any team,” said Rogers. “We went into that game like we were going to win it but weren’t expecting the players Portland had because we hadn’t played them this season. We played well getting the ball out quick and finding our forwards as soon as possible. We’re proud that we got that far against a tough team.”

According to senior Connor LeClerc, there wasn't a single person on the team who quit. They stepped on that field, everyone was playing for more than just themselves and that is all he can ask of teammates. The team was closer than any team he’s ever been on. Every day they pushed each other to get better. <

Windham girls fall in varsity soccer semifinals

By Matt Pascarella

The third-ranked Windham traveled to meet second-ranked Gorham on Thursday, Nov. 2 for a repeat varsity girls’ soccer semifinal match similar to the one these two teams played a year ago with one exception, the Lady Eagles made it a lot harder for Gorham this time. Windham forced two sudden-death overtimes and after regulation play ended, it was tied at 1-1. Once it went to penalty kicks, Gorham eked out a 2-1 win.

Windham junior Stella Jarvais looks to see which of her
teammates is open during a girls' varsity soccer semifinal
playoff game against Gorham.
PHOTO BY MATT PASCARELLA

“This year we had a young team with only two seniors,” said Windham varsity girls’ soccer coach Deb Lebel. “This meant younger players had to step up and play a much bigger role this season. I think because we didn't depend so much on one player everyone contributed in a variety of ways. We can compete with a very talented team even though we are young. We also never gave up; all players played their hearts out ... through both overtimes.”

As time was running out in the first half, Windham junior Kyla Harvie shot the ball from the outer 18-yard line to score. Windham was up 1-0 at halftime.

“We’ve had a tough rivalry with Gorham for a while and we really wanted this win, so we went deep down,” said Harvie. “If we work together and try our hardest, anything can happen – we just have to do our best. It was a long, long game, we just kept fighting through everything. We did a good job defending, passing around Gorham and getting opportunities on the attacking field.”

Gorham responded and scored in the second half which tied the game 1-1. As the clock ran out, the game went into its first overtime. For perspective, in 2022, Gorham won 1-0 in the semifinal after regulation, and now Windham fought hard to get the win.

“Being that it was sudden death, it puts a lot of pressure on everybody,” said Windham senior and goalie Alejandra Hidell, who had 10 saves overall. “It’s extra nerve-wracking for me because I don’t want to get scored on. [My mindset was] if any ball came at me, I’d try my best to save it and do everything I can.”

Windham pressured, passed the ball well, defense kept Gorham at bay and Windham had several shots near goal. At the buzzer Windham held Gorham to another overtime.

When it came down to penalty kicks, junior Stella Jarvais scored. Unfortunately, the other kicks were saved.

“Our team is big in chemistry,” said Jarvais. “We grew as a team throughout the whole season, and I haven’t been on a team that has had that much chemistry. Everyone wanted to win, and we used our power to push us to the next level.”

According to Lebel, Windham really supported each other, cheered for one another no matter what role they played. This was one of the hardest working groups she’s had.

“I think we came out, wanting to win, wanting to get revenge, it didn’t happen, but we tried our hardest – it was very nerve-racking,” said Windham sophomore Marley Jarvais. “Our passing was really good, our pressure from the forwards was really good too. Our team bond and how focused we were during practice really, really helped.” <

Windham football falls in regular-season finale to Bonny Eagle

By Matt Pascarella

In the final game of the regular varsity football season, Windham varsity football put forth a strong effort for four quarters, but fell to Bonny Eagle, 35-21 in Standish on Tuesday, Oct. 31.

Windham senior Marcus Tillery heads in the end zone at 
Bonny Eagle High School in Standish during the final 
regular season varsity football game against the Scots on
Tuesday, Oct. 31. PHOTO BY MATT PASCARELLA 

“I feel like we definitely took some steps improving from last week,” said Windham senior Marcus Tillery, who scored two touchdowns and had 223 rushing yards in the game. “Definitely played a great team with a great running game, it was a challenge for us to get used to that. We definitely ran the ball well, O-line was very physical, came off the ball on both sides, pass game was there and I ... just love the energy tonight; these guys are like freight trains – they don’t stop, if you get in their way, they’ll move you. We need to get a good game plan for Oxford Hills [in the playoffs]. We need to be able to execute better on offense and execute better on defense.”

Bonny Eagle won the coin toss but deferred and kicked off. It was first and 10 Windham from their 31-yard line. Tillery got the ball to the Scots’ 19-yard line. A pass thrown to Windham senior Tobias Perkins was complete and it was third down and three. After a false start, senior Briggs Valliere caught a touchdown pass. The extra point was good, and Windham led, 7-0, in the first quarter.

Bonny Eagle quickly answered, but their attempt at a two-point conversion is blocked and they trailed by a point, 7-6.

Late in the first quarter, Tillery ran the ball in for a touchdown, and the Eagles led, 14-6, after one quarter.

In the second quarter, Bonny Eagle, scored and their two-point conversion was good, resulting in a 14-14 tie.

Windham was unable to score in the second quarter and the half ended with Bonny Eagle scoring two more times to go ahead, 28-14.

“I thought we really executed well offensively,” said Windham varsity football coach Matt Perkins. “We had some really big runs, and everyone on offense took a major step forward. Marcus had a great night, but there were some great blocks. We went nose-to-nose with a team that had a chance to beat Oxford Hills in the last minutes, had a chance to beat Thornton Academy – and we’re obviously taking major strides. We hurt ourselves, special teams tonight, we had three major mistakes, and you just can’t do those things against good teams. Defensively, we’ve got to keep continuing to get better at stopping the inside run. It’s been a chink in our armor all year. We’ve done numerous things to fix it and we’ve just got to continue to battle at that.”

In the second half, it was first and 10 Windham from their 34-yard line, then it was second and six. Tillery got the wheels going and scored another touchdown. The extra point was good, cutting Bonny Eagle’s advantage to 28-21, after three quarters.

Bonny Eagle scored one more time before the clock ran out to secure the win.

“Our offense [went well tonight], our blocking was a lot better than it’s been; we definitely stepped up,” said Valliere, who had 17 receiving yards. “Getting those big stops on defense definitely contributed to our line getting better, just making plays. We definitely need to work on defense, making tackles, and on offense we just got to make big plays. We’re going to playoffs 0-0, whole new season.”

Windham will travel to Oxford Hills for the Class A Northern Division playoff on Monday, Nov. 6; kickoff is scheduled for 6 p.m. <

WHS varsity basketball tunes up for upcoming season

By Matt Pascarella

Last month, the Windham varsity basketball team opened its fall basketball schedule in preparation for the upcoming season and on Sunday, Oct. 29 at XL Sports World in Saco, the squad took on Falmouth and Edward Little. Windham fell, 73-48, to Falmouth but turned it around in a much closer game against Edward Little. While Windham had the lead for most of the game, Edward Little pulled away in the end to win, 51-45.

Windham senior Matt Searway drives past defenders at XL
Sports World in Saco during a fall basketball game against
Edward Little on Sunday, Oct. 29.
PHOTO BY MATT PASCARELLA

“This is a great group,” said WHS coach Cam Brown. “I’m a new voice in the program, so I’m really thankful that they listen and get everything. Some things we did really well were getting out in transition [during the Edward Little game]; we got to limit second chance points, turnovers and fast break points. A huge thing for them is communication. Overall, I think the kids did great.”

Falmouth

Windham was tied with Falmouth early in the first half, but after a short time, Falmouth pulled away. Windham kept it somewhat close by getting rebounds and staying aggressive. Falmouth led by six points at halftime.

Windham kept up the intensity and worked to bridge the gap between teams in the second half. Falmouth got several turnovers that worked against the Eagles. Windham did not give up, though shots weren’t falling. They made a last-ditch effort in the final minutes of the game, but Falmouth was too far ahead.

“At the beginning we came out strong,” said Windham senior Quinton Lindsay. “We were running, playing defense, talking, switching, getting rebounds, doing everything. In the second half we kind of just lost focus – Falmouth was getting rebounds, hitting transitions, getting shots and we just couldn’t match it. To improve we can work on defense, get our stamina back up and just be ready to hit shots when you’re open. We had a lot of open shots [that were missed].”

Edward Little

This was a different game. Windham tied it up very early on in the first half. Their intensity gave them a small lead, though Edward Little wasn’t trailing by much. Windham offense continued to sink shots and its defense blocked Edward Little’s scoring opportunities. Windham got several turnovers and maintained a lead. Windham led 33-26 midway through the game.

In the second half, Windham’s shots weren’t falling early on which gave Edward Little the chance to catch up. Windham junior Creighty Dickson hit a three-pointer. Windham got rebounds and continued defense. As the clock wound down, Edward Little gained a one-point lead. Then the game was tied at 42. Edward Little led by a couple of points and slowly began to pull away. Despite a strong effort, Windham was unable to recover.

“Our energy was up,” said Windham sophomore AJ Moody. “Our defense in transition was going really good at the start and ... it was going well until they got a one-point lead, and we kind of shut down and kept digging ourselves in a deeper hole. I think getting back on transition defense would help [us improve], not digging ourselves in a deeper hole, but stepping out of that hole and keep rising up.”

Dickson said the team played aggressive and that they pushed the pace a lot. They knocked down some clutch shots at the end, but their tempo wasn’t very good – technical fouls did not help, and their lead decreased. They can improve on transition defense, offensive rebounding and limiting their turnovers.

Both Brown and Windham coach Pat Moody said that the benefits of a fall basketball league are getting in with the same group of guys and building team chemistry as they prepare for the winter season. <

Windham’s cross country teams finish extremely strong in regional championships

By Matt Pascarella

Pouring rain did not stop the Windham cross country team from showing they were ready to compete in the Class A Regional championship on Saturday, Oct. 21 at Twin Brooks Recreation Area in Cumberland. The Windham girls’ team all qualified for the state championship and the boys earned a 10th place finish; just one team spot shy of going to the state championship.

Windham sophomore Sydney Broadbent keeps a steady pace
early in the Class A girls' Cross Country Regional
Championships race at Twin Brook recreational area on
Saturday, Oct. 21 in Cumberland.
PHOTO BY MATT PASCARELLA  

Girls

“We knew it was going to be rough,” said Windham sophomore Sydney Broadbent, who finished second for Windham and 19th with a time of 21:56.44 minutes. “We knew that everybody was running in the same weather and conditions were going to be the same for everybody and in some ways, it could help us because we’ve worked so hard and prepared since July for this. We were ready for it, and we came and fought, and we did it. We all kept fighting and ... kept going, kept pushing, and we put in the work this season and it paid off today. Everybody worked extra hard – we gave it our all, we gave it everything.”

Junior Tayla Peletier finished first for the team with an 18th place finish overall and a 21.56.32 time.

Sophomore Emma Fox finished third for Windham and 47th overall with a 23:40.61 time. Right behind her was senior Elizabeth Bearce with a 23.50.52 finish.

Sophomore Abigail Dumont finished fifth for Windham with a 24:09.41 time; she knocked off more than a minute from her 2022 Regional Championship finish time.

Boys

“It’s a good day to race, with the rain, it cools you off, it makes you feel fine,” said Windham junior Andrew Young who finished first for Windham and dropped over 20 seconds off his 2022 Regional Championship time with a 2023 time of 18:04.92. “Definitely a little slippery ... definitely a good race. As a team, we were really unified; we were hyping each other up, we all felt good. We met our expectations; I was very pleased with my performance. I have to give credit to my team, everything our coaches and our team has done has prepared us for this race.”

Seniors Graden Joly, Jinqi Li and sophomore Gavin Lawler all dropped times. Joly finished second for the team and 35th overall with a time of 18:32.53. Li finished third for Windham with a 19:41.63 time.

Lawler finished fourth for Windham with a time of 19:42.76. He dropped an entire minute off his previous Regional Championship time.

Freshman Mason Bragdon finished fifth for the team in his first ever Regionals Championship race. He had a fantastic time of 19:56.47.

“We think the weather was an asset because we made it so,” said Windham cross-country coach Jeff Riddle. “We needed to work extremely consistently and extremely well together to have a shot to do what we did today, and they responded and did it. I think the biggest thing that's going well is that the girls are a tight, tight true team and the boys are progressing to that end.”

According to Riddle, they will treat the State Championships no differently than the Regional Championships; they will reset and get back into it. States is not a finishing point; it is a goal and that has opportunities of things to qualify beyond there.

The State Championships will take place in Belfast on Saturday, Oct. 28. <