Youth Baseball Clinic helps younger players learn new skills

By Matt Pascarella

Windham’s varsity baseball team conducted its final week of a youth baseball clinic at Windham High School on Sunday, March 23 and called it a success as both varsity and younger players gear up for exciting seasons.

Windham fifth grader Jacoby Penney keeps his focus on the
ball while in the batting cage at Windham High School
during the Windham Youth Baseball Clinic on
Sunday, March 23. PHOTO BY MATT PASSCARELLA   

This six-week clinic is a perfect opportunity for youth to work on the skills of the game, while learning new techniques from current Windham High varsity baseball players and coaches.

“To practice and get better for a new season is why I’m here,” said Windham fifth-grader Alex McGonagle. “It helps me to get better and more in shape for the new season. I’ve learned how to control the ball more and hit better. I’ve learned how to just scoop the ball up when you’re running. It feels like you are one of the varsity players when practicing with them – my dream is to play varsity – they inspire me so much that I want to pursue my career in baseball and become a Major League Baseball player. Thanks to the community for letting us come here and learn so much.”

The youth clinic was broken up into three sections: infield/outfield, pitching and hitting.

“The goal of the clinic is it goes right in line with the culture and perspective of our program so we’re trying to build everything from the ground up,” said Windham High varsity baseball coach Chris Doughty. “That starts with T-ball, AA, AAA, Little League, Middle School until eventually they make it to the end goal for us which is them being at the varsity level.”

The varsity team emphasizes their culture, making sure younger players have characteristics of what they want in their program like positive attitude, hustle and good character.

When Doughty first started participating in these clinics three years ago, they had 30 kids sign up, and this year there were about 70 kids who participated.

Doughty said Windham baseball is on people’s minds, and they want to be a part of what the varsity program is doing and that starts at the youth level.

“I need the extra help to get better and I’m learning new fundamentals and skills to be just as good when the baseball season starts up,” said Windham fifth-grader Jacoby Penney. “I’m working towards playing varsity baseball.”

It's good life experience for varsity players and Doughty tells them before every single clinic that the younger kids look up to them. “You’re their heroes, talk to them, instruct, but most importantly give them your time because that goes a long way,” he said.

Doughty wants them to remember what it felt like when varsity players were young and a varsity player worked with them, and how cool that felt.

“It gives us a chance to give out our knowledge to these younger players and it boosts our program as a whole and teaches these kids essential lessons that they need starting out,” said Windham varsity senior Joshua Plummer. “The idea is we teach them what we know and by the time they are our age, they’ll already be ahead of the game. This helps us with our game the way we field the ball ... it’s good to teach them the things that I know. It feels great to be able to share knowledge in a sport that I know and am passionate about – this is a really fun thing for me; I really enjoy working with these kids.”

It's been a great six weeks for the varsity players and the coaches. Participants have seen steady improvement in at least one area of a youth player’s game.

Varsity players say that it feels great for the team to be able to give back to the community. <

WHS graduate leads by example for Saint Joseph’s lacrosse

By Matt Pascarella

Windham High School 2023 graduate Reed Wescott has had a love for lacrosse since his dad introduced him to the game in fourth grade.

Windham's Reed Wescott makes a save for Saint Joseph's 
College during a men's lacrosse game at Salve Regina 
University in Rhode Island last October. 
PHOTO BY JAIME RANGER  

In his very first game, a goalie was needed and Wescott volunteered without giving it a second thought. Now a sophomore at Saint Joseph’s College earning a degree in history/political science with a pre-law track, Wescott is now the goalie for the Saint Joseph’s College men’s lacrosse team, showing his skill and positive character as a teammate and player.

“To be given this opportunity to go to school and be able to play a sport I have been working at my whole life has made me stick with it,” said Wescott. I would be a completely different person than I am right now if it wasn't for this sport and the people I met through it. For me, lacrosse has been an outlet to let go of anything that was bothering me off the field; I knew no matter what day I was having, I could go to practice and leave it all out on the field with me.”

Playing lacrosse at WHS under Coach Peter Small taught Wescott how to overcome and deal with adversity, both on and off the field, he said.

Being able to go out onto the field and adapt to any changes that can occur during the game is a skill that Wescott cherishes from Small.

Saint Joseph’s College men’s lacrosse coach Matt Gilbert said that Wescott’s commitment and leadership skills have earned him the privilege of being selected to serve on the team’s leadership council. The goal of the council is to spread leadership throughout the team so if a teammate needs help, there are team leaders who they can go to besides the main captains.

“Playing goalie in our sport is very tough and the leap from high school lacrosse to our level is a jump for anyone,” said Gilbert. “Reed made that jump look easy at times. He's a fierce friend, devoted teammate and hardworking member of our team. He is intensely focused and works hard to prepare for game days and knows what it takes to be successful in those moments.

“He also has an ever-present and potent sense of humor and is always willing to lend a listening ear to his teammates,” Gilbert said. “He not only supports them emotionally but also is helping to scout shooters and organize our defensive efforts in real time whether on the field, on the sideline or in the film room.”

Wescott has put up some impressive numbers in his short tenure on the team. During this freshman year, he had 21 saves in a game against Emmanuel College in Massachusetts. The Monks went on to win 15-7 in an important Conference Game. Wescott had 147 saves, and 32 ground balls tallied his first year.

In a recent home game against Gordon College on Wednesday, March 19, he had 11 saves; and the Monks won 7-6.

His advice to anyone looking to play a sport in college is to never stop pushing yourself.

“If you get the chance to play collegiately, don’t take it for granted,” Wescott said. “Take every opportunity you are given and give it everything you’ve got with no regrets.”

His teammates have noticed his strong work ethic.

“Reed has been a leader on our team since day one,” said Saint Joseph’s College senior teammate Anthony Samiotes. “He was a freshman who had no fear speaking up in team huddles or making his voice heard to our upperclassmen. Reed is a very supportive and positive teammate. When in a close game, having a solid goalie is incredibly important, and Reed is always up to the task.” <

Players work on fundamentals during Windham Youth Softball Clinic

By Matt Pascarella

Every year, the varsity softball team runs youth clinics for kids in Windham and surrounding areas as an opportunity for younger players to get to know coaches and learn from the older varsity players.

Windham High School varsity softball player Kennedy
Kimball instructs an group of younger players in fundamental
skills during the Windham Youth Softball Clinic at Windham
High on March 16. PHOTO BY MATT PASCARELLA 

The clinic lasts six weeks and is open to ages 6 to 12. Their second-to-last clinic of the year was conducted at Windham High School on Sunday, March 16. It was a great opportunity for younger players to learn more about the mechanics of the game while also having fun and getting to know the WHS coaches and varsity players.

“It's important for me as a high school coach to empower my athletes and I think putting them in situations where they can lead and teach youth athletes gives them more confidence when they step onto the high school field,” said Windham varsity softball coach Darcey Gardiner. “I get to know the kids and probably more importantly they get to know me and the high school athletes. My goal is to see those girls all come to tryouts their freshman year of high school. It’s important for me as a varsity coach to interact with kids all the way down to coach-pitch, that’s what we had here today. The more girls that we can keep interested in softball then the better our program and culture is as a whole.”

By participating in these softball clinics, when these younger players get to high school, they know exactly what is expected of them and are already familiar with the drills and what they want to get out of each drill they do. The growth that coaches see from the start of the clinic to its finish is tremendous.

Windham catcher Eva Doughty, a fifth grader, said she can’t wait to get better and play this year. At the clinic, Doughty got a chance to catch for a varsity player and she said it was hard but she tried her best and had a lot of fun.

“I have done this clinic years before and I always thought it helped start the season,” said Windham eighth-grader Niyah Cummings, who helped out during the clinic this year. “It helps me build relationships with the high schoolers as well as the younger kids. The varsity high school players are having fun and showing what it’s like to be a ‘big kid’ in the sport they love.”

The clinic is split into three sections: baserunning, fielding and hitting.

Coach Gardiner and the varsity players make it exciting for the younger players with a high level of enthusiasm.

“I love softball, and I love sports in general,” said Windham fifth-grader Colby Sargent. “I’ve just been playing since I was very little. I like how the high schoolers come in because they are very inspiring; we have the potential to be on the varsity team, so they’re basically just teaching us how to be good like them.”

Another positive aspect of the clinic is for the older and younger players to meet and lessen any intimidation that might be there for the younger players. The varsity players also might gain a new fan or two.

Varsity players and Gardiner want younger players to come watch them play. The varsity team also wants to continue to be role models for the community.

“I think it’s a good way for us to see some of the young talent coming up,” said Windham senior varsity player Kennedy Kimball about the clinic. “It’s good for us to see them and for them to meet older girls and to see and get some experience from us as well as have Coach Gardiner be able to look at what’s to come and keep girls in the program. It’s nice to be able to talk to them and know that you’re not just one of the people on the team, and that you actually help them.”

There’s one more clinic left; it will be at 1:30 p.m. Sunday, March 23 in the Windham High School gymnasium. The cost to participate is $15. <

WHS graduate Talon successful on both sides of the basketball court

By Matt Pascarella

Windham High School 2020 graduate Hannah Talon has been tenacious on the basketball court since she was little.

Windham High graduate Hannah Talon
was honored as Greater Northeastern
Conference Basketball Tournament
Most Valuable Player in 2023.
PHOTO BY ALLISON TALON 

While earning her degree in exercise science at Saint Joseph’s College she’s been on both sides of the court. When she was injured before her senior year of college, she became a student-assistant coach.

A month before graduation she was asked to officially become an assistant coach of the women’s basketball program, and she has made a big difference.

She is currently attending Merrimack College online pursuing her master’s in clinical mental health counseling. She will continue to coach at Saint Joseph’s College as she works toward her master’s degree. Talon says she would like to build a career in sports psychology, supporting the mental health of athletes on and off the court.

“Hannah was a very strong player for us,” said head Saint Joseph’s College women’s basketball coach Mike McDevitt. “She was a very versatile player; she was a match up nightmare for our opponents. She used her time on the sidelines watching and learning like a coach. Not everyone can make the transition from player to coach and coach players they played with. She has been able to do that without any problem at all. I know when Hannah speaks with a player during a game, they really value her input.”

In third grade, Talon began playing basketball. In the seventh grade, she became passionate about playing the sport.

By eighth grade, she knew she wanted to play college basketball. This realization fueled countless hours of training in the gym. Although she tore her anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) twice while in high school, her determination to play at the next level never wavered.

“Playing for the women's basketball team under Coach McDevitt was an incredibly special experience that shaped me both on and off the court,” said Talon. “My time at Windham with Coach Brody Artes laid the foundation for my collegiate career, instilling in me the values of hard work, resilience, and leadership. The lessons I learned extended far beyond basketball, preparing me for the challenges of college athletics and life beyond the game.”

In 2023, the Saint Joseph’s College women’s basketball team won the Greater Northeastern Athletic Conference Championship. Talon finished that game by scoring 27 points and was named as the Conference Tournament’s Most Valuable Player; she says this was one of her most unforgettable moments as a player on the team.

Before her senior year of college, Talon tore her ACL again and made the tough decision to medically retire. She transitioned into a student-assistant coach role in 2024 where she was able to observe the game, and it was an eye-opening experience that gave her a new perspective.

According to Talon, she gained a deeper appreciation for the immense effort that coaches put in behind-the-scenes.

“My journey wouldn’t have been possible without my parents unwavering encouragement, pushing me forward even on the toughest days of recovery,” said Talon. “I also owe a great deal to my physical therapist, Ryan Brown, and my sports psychologist, Jan Veinot. Their expertise and guidance were instrumental in both my physical and mental comeback to basketball.”

During her time on the sidelines, Talon learned that one of the most valuable lessons is patience. She adapts her approach while maintaining a steady and supportive presence. Growth doesn’t happen overnight, and it takes time, repetition and encouragement to help athletes reach their full potential.

“I think her ability to take her experiences as a player and implement that into coaching is key,” said teammate and Saint Joseph’s College graduate student Angelica Hurley. “Hannah stepped up in the moments that we needed it most and brought important energy all around. Hannah is a great coach, and I am grateful that I got the opportunity to be coached by her in my last year.”

Talon says that success is the ability to achieve goals while learning and growing from your mistakes along the way. She said life has a way of opening doors you never expected; success looks different for everyone but setting goals, staying disciplined and being consistent are key to making the most of any opportunity. <

Four Windham seniors sign college athletic letters of intent

By Matt Pascarella

Four Windham seniors signed their letters of intent at Windham High School on Thursday, Feb. 27.

Stella Jarvais will attend the University of Maine Orono to play soccer, Grace Joly will attend Colby-Sawyer in New Hampshire to play lacrosse, Luke Cunniffe will attend Bates in Lewiston to play soccer and Sarah Inman will attend Wheaton College in Massachusetts and be a member of the swimming team.

Windham senior Grace Joly signs a letter of intent to
attend Colby-Sawyer College in New Hampshire to
play lacrosse and study nursing at the school.
PHOTO BY MATT PASCARELLA

Stella Jarvais

“Stella is the rare, dying breed of a three-sport athlete,” said girls’ varsity soccer coach Deb Lebel. “She’s a tremendous player, but an even better person. Teams have an additional coach when Stella’s their teammate.”

While Jarvais is undecided on her college major, she chose UMaine Orono because of the community environment.

She began playing soccer at a young age through travel and recreational soccer.

Jarvais said it was surreal for her to sign a letter of intent. She reminds underclassmen to remember the process is about what you love and not what people expect from you.

She said she would like to thank all her coaches, teachers, family, and friends that have shown her unconditional love and support through the years.

Grace Joly

Joly will major in nursing at Colby-Sawyer College and might eventually work in pediatrics.

She began playing lacrosse when she was 4 because her club coach, Taylor Colangelo, was a referee for her games.

“It’s amazing to sign the letter of intent,” said Joly. “I feel like people wait for this day and it’s a really good feeling to look in the crowd and see all my family and friends, coaches.”

Her advice to underclassmen is to put in the work and make connections at a college before committing.

“We were afraid she was going to get broken the first time she got hit on the lacrosse field,” said girls’ varsity lacrosse coach Matt Perkins. “Right away she had that smile and personality, and she has really brought our program to a place where everybody is involved.”

Joly said she would like to thank WHS lacrosse coaches Perkins, Babb and Ludka; Coach Colangelo and her parents for everything they’ve done for her.

Luke Cunniffe

“He is a student of the game,” said varsity boys’ soccer coach Jeff Neal. “Anyone that’s watched him and what’s he’s done with our program and how he’s carried himself is so heartwarming.”

Econometrics is what Cunniffe will major in at Bates College and he says that he would like to get a position in finance after that.

Signing a letter of intent was something Cunniffe always saw his friends do and he was grateful to have his moment.

His interest in soccer began during youth sports. He had tried several sports, and soccer quickly became a good outlet for him. He said soccer keeps him making good decisions and motivates him to work hard and to be a good person on and off the field.

His advice to underclassmen is to keep working; keep pushing and working toward their ultimate goal.

“As long as you’re playing the game for the right reasons, and you have people around you supporting you, and motivating you, it’s great,” said Cunniffe.

Cunniffe said he would like to thank his mom, dad, brother Sean, grandmother and his grandfather Bob Witham.

Sarah Inman

Inman says that it felt good for her to sign a letter of intent. She will major in biochemistry at Wheaton College and would like to someday make natural medicine with fewer side effects.

When Inman found swimming, she realized she was naturally born for water. She quickly moved through various swimming groups and pushed herself to do well.

“One of the very few to come through Windham and medal in both the regional championship and the state championship for four years in a row,” said WHS swim coach Peter Small. “She’s an ambassador of the sport and a true leader who approaches everything with grace.”

Her advice to anyone who wants to sign a college athletic letter of intent is to speak the truth and be confident in your choices; do what feels right and know there are people supporting you.

She would like to thank her coaches, teammates and friends who supported her through high school. <

Windham Unified basketball ends season with positivity

By Matt Pascarella

It was a big night for Windham’s Unified basketball team, which joins people with and without intellectual disabilities on the same team. Monday, March 10 was the last home game of the season and Windham took on Scarborough at home.

Windham junior Zachary O'Brion takes a shot from just 
inside the paint during a Unified basketball game against
Scarborough at Windham High School on Monday,
March 10. PHOTO BY MATT PASCARELLA

It was also Senior Night for the Windham Unified team as Devan Kennie, Talia Campobasso, Colby Schmid and Jacob Smith were presented with a gift to thank them and their parents for their time and dedication to Windham Athletics.

The Eagles started strong and held onto their lead until the end of the game, emerging with a 57-41 victory.

“We did good,” said Smith. “Our partners were able to tell us when to not shoot. Talia told me to back down when (it was appropriate). What I saw that went well was we did better at communicating with each other and we did better at helping out our own team. I am so excited that we won that I’ll be thinking about it for a couple days.”

Windham came out strong and moved the ball well. They rebounded and went hard at the hoop. Schmid got a turnover and a basket. Then it was a parade of Windham athletes scoring; there was solid teamwork. The crowd roared in support for all Unified players.

Windham jumped out to a big lead early. Windham junior Mary Jean had a turnover and scored. Junior Zachary O’Brion hit a three-pointer before the end of the half where Windham led 27-18.

“I went around and scored some baskets from the left (side of the court),” said Windham freshman Tristan Stanley, who scored 12 points.

“It felt pretty great to score so much; getting good baskets went well,” Stanley said.

In the second half, Scarborough closed the gap a bit, but Windham was not letting up. Just a few minutes into the second half, Windham led by over 10 points.

Smith sank a three-pointer, and it was nothing but net. Schmid also hit a three-pointer for Windham and scored 15 points in the game.

Windham’s defense kept Scarborough at bay throughout the contest.

WHS Freshman Maddi Small connected for a basket before the final buzzer to end the season on a high note.

“They were really excited for tonight,” said Windham Unified assistant basketball coach Connor McNeil. “They were excited for Senior Night. We do usually come out to a pretty good lead; the problem has been holding on to it. They did a really good job playing with energy today. They really passed the ball pretty well. We saw a couple give-and-goes which we’ve worked on in practice, that I haven’t seen in the game, so we were pretty pleased to see that. It’s a great team; they play with a lot of energy, and they have a lot of fun. I think the most important thing about Unified basketball is it brings the community together. We had a big event at school to encourage people to come, we had a good turnout – I think Senior Night means a lot to them for that reason. It’s really nice for us to win, so we’re really happy to see everybody come out and support us; that means a lot to us and to the players.”

McNeil said Unified sports are inspired by a simple principle: training together and playing together is a quick path to friendship and understanding. <

Windham varsity basketball coach Pulkkinen earns 100 career wins

By Matt Pascarella

Before winning his second straight boys’ state basketball championship, Windham High varsity basketball coach Chad Pulkkinen notched his 100th career win during the state semifinal game against Portland on Thursday, Feb. 20 at the Cross Insurance Arena in Portland, just 10 years after becoming the team’s head coach.

Windham High varsity boys' basketball coach is interviewed
after his team won the state championship defeating South
Portland on Saturday, March 1. Pulkkinen posted his
100th career victory earlier in the state playoffs 
during the state semifinals against Portland.
PHOTO BY MATT PASCARELLA 

“I am truly grateful for the opportunity to coach and to play a small role in the success of the kids at Windham,” said Pulkkinen. “It (100 wins) means I’ve had the privilege of working with so many great young men who share the same passion for basketball that I do. Our culture has been a priority from the very beginning. The true foundation of our program is the people within it—starting with my assistant coaches. They are instrumental in shaping our culture, embodying the same character, work ethic, and attitude we expect from our players.”

Pulkkinen has always had a personal goal of giving back to the town where he grew up. He is grateful for the opportunity to do so.

After college, Pulkkinen got the opportunity to achieve a lifelong goal – to play basketball professionally. He was invited to several pro-camps where he was scouted internationally and selected by the Northampton Neptunes in England. He was involved in the team’s developmental program, working with nearly 400 kids from ages 8 to 16 teaching them basketball. It has become one of the most enriching experiences of his career.

“Working with Chad, and the rest of this staff, is one of the most rewarding parts of my life,” said Windham assistant coach Geoff Grigsby. “Chad, specifically, is why I wanted to join the program in the first place. Watching a couple years of him coaching at WHS showed he had a lot of potential as a coach. I appreciate the culture he's built and the relationships that will last a lifetime because of his leadership far more.”

In 2015, it was Pat Moody who recruited Pulkkinen for the WHS head coaching position. Pulkkinen and his wife had just had their second child and coaching wasn’t on his mind. Although hesitant, Moody could sense this and continued insisting he could excel in the coaching role. Eventually, Pulkkinen took the job and says that he’s glad he did.

“From the start, Pat set me up for success, including introducing me to two incredible assistant coaches who had already been part of the program: Peter Brown and George McCrillis,” said Pulkkinen. “They are two of the best people in this town. I was fortunate to have their experience and guidance in those early years.”

McCrillis is still coaching with him today alongside three other coaches including Grigsby, Noah Estey and Chris Sargent.

“It’s hard for me to explain what a big part (coaching) is in my life,” said McCrillis. “It’s more than just basketball; it’s the kids, it’s the relationships, it’s their families, the community – and that really starts with Chad. We demand high standards and good sportsmanship. To us it’s about the big picture ... it’s not just about wins and losses (for Chad) and trying to feed our own personal egos. He talked about this right from the get-go that he wanted to develop a culture in Windham that Windham would become known throughout the state as a basketball town.”

Pulkkinen was so intensely focused on the team’s success that McCrillis had to remind him the semifinals victory was his 100th win.

Basketball is a vehicle for life and Pulkkinen, along with his coaches, want players to leave the program feeling prepared for life’s challenges through basketball. The game teaches invaluable lessons about resilience, teamwork, discipline, and perseverance. It means a lot to him to know that he has played a small part in his players’ success, hopefully, has had a positive impact in their journey.

“The impact that he has on us is tremendous, he builds confidence in us on the court as people, students, children,” said senior AJ Moody. “He’s the best coach I’ve ever had; he pushes us through walls to make us the team we were during the State Championships.” <

German foreign exchange student excels on basketball court

By Matt Pascarella

Windham foreign exchange junior Eduard Pertuch played soccer growing up in Germany. Now as part of the Foreign Exchange program at Windham High School for the 2024-2025 school year, he played on the WHS junior varsity basketball team this winter and also played American football for the first time during the fall season.

Windham foreign exchange student Eduard Pertuch, a junior,
navigates his way through Deering players during a JV
basketball game at Windham High School on Friday, Feb. 7.
PHOTO BY MATT PASCARELLA 

“Going all the way back to tryouts, Edi's leadership, character, and positivity were captivating,” said Windham boys JV basketball coach Noah Estey. “He has only been playing for two to three years, but he consistently came to me wanting more coaching and feedback because he was extremely motivated. He consistently asked what he could continue to work on to become the best player he could, both for this year and for when he returns to Germany. His work ethic was second to none and was one of our most important players this year due to his leadership, work ethic and contagious positivity.”

Windham is a much bigger school than Pertuch is used to, but he’s enjoyed his time on the court and in the classroom. He likes that there are more and more people to meet and different things to experience.

While he struggled a little at first, he quickly adapted.

“I really like the community,” said Pertuch. “They picked me up from day one, everybody was really, really friendly.”

In Germany, basketball is very popular. Pertuch is a big fan, and it was one of the main reasons he wanted to come to the United States was to experience how Americans played the game.

“It’s an amazing program,” said Pertuch of Windham’s basketball program. “I really love that from the first steps they took to putting a team together that you can trust on the court and off the court. I love competing, I love competition ... seeing your friends out there ... just makes me happy and makes the team happy. It was a great experience.”

Coach Estey said Pertuch was a pleasure to work with and coach. They had many good conversations about the difference between how the game is played in Germany versus how it’s played in the United States.

It’s not an easy adjustment to make coming into a program with student-athletes who have been in the program playing together for years.

According to Windham sophomore and Pertuch’s basketball teammate Sam Redlon, he is one of the kindest, generous, and friendliest people he’s ever met; an outstanding teammate who makes others around him better with his positivity and never gives up on the team.

Redlon said it was fun to play basketball with him. Pertuch was a mentor, a team guy and it was good to have his knowledge at Windham.

“I had him as a teammate for both football and basketball and no one cared more and cheered harder for his teammates than Edi did this year,” said Windham freshman Boston Krainis. “It was impressive to watch how quickly Edi picked up American football after never having been exposed to it. In basketball he was a willing shooter, diving on the floor and celebrating with his teammates. One time the referee misunderstood his enthusiasm and gave him a technical foul. The entire team declared him the happiest person to ever get a technical. The season was much better with him on the team.”

Pertuch says he wants to thank his coaches for their kindness, time and the effort they put in and gives a special thanks to Coach Estey for his patience and to the team for all they’ve done for him. He’s grateful for everything and this was a season he won’t forget.” <

Windham boys’ basketball eliminates Edward Little in regional finals

By Matt Pascarella

After knocking out Portland in the semifinals 65-56, the Windham High School Eagles advanced for the third time in recent history to the regional final on Saturday, Feb. 22 at the Cross Insurance Arena in Portland. Second-place Windham took down fourth-place Edward Little, 55-49.

Windham sophomore Colin Janvrin gets a shot off in time 
during the regional boys' basketball final against Edward
Little at Cross Insurance Arena in Portland on Feb. 22. 
PHOTO BY MATT PASCARELLA 

“It means a lot (to head back to the state championship) ... this is an awesome feeling,” said Windham sophomore Colin Janvrin. “I’m super excited to get on that state championship floor and ball out again. We weren’t really nervous because we’ve been here before and ... we were ready for this. I think (Edward Little) built up a lot of their team chemistry and they got a lot better throughout the whole season, so props to them. We just stayed through and fought through. AJ (Moody) played great defense on (Edward Little’s Maiwen) Diing; he’s a great player and AJ shut him down really well. Everybody on the offensive end just moving the ball around and finding whoever’s hot – getting it done. I think we just got to move the ball around and find our good shots instead of forcing shots on offense. They were playing really good defense, and we got to work around it.”

Edward Little jumped out in front early on. After Windham junior Tyrie James sank a three-pointer, the game got closer. Windham defense went hard after the Eddies.

Windham sophomore Colin Janvrin hit a three-pointer. The game remained tight; not all Windham shots fell. Eagle defense caused several turnovers. Moody had a three-point buzzer beater at the half and Windham led, 23-19.

“It was our best basketball that was needed to win, and, in these games, anything can happen,” said Windham boys’ basketball coach Chad Pulkkinen. “The guys did a great job holding their composure. I think our team is as united as it’s been, which is important especially down the stretch when you miss some foul shots and adversity hits ... all kinds of bad things can happen, and I think our team was ready for those moments. We have great kids who have great experience, it just makes it easy for me as a coach. They were super hungry for it ... we had to come out and match that energy that they wanted revenge; we wanted to make sure we were prepared for that. I thought we rebounded the ball really well; I thought AJ played about as good as you can on Diing. AJ is the best defender in the state, and he stepped up to that challenge today, AJ wanted that challenge, and he took it. Diing is an unbelievable player, and AJ is an unbelievable defender, so I just thought that matchup was fun to watch.”

Windham senior Braycen Freese hit a three-pointer in the second half. More Windham shots were falling, and they led by 10.

But Edward Little was catching up. Windham senior Joseph Blige picked up a turnover and passed to Janvrin who sank a three-pointer.

As the clock ticked away, the game remained tight in the fourth quarter. Six points separated the teams with 2:38 left. With 34 seconds left, three points separated the teams. Janvrin hit two crucial foul shots to expand the WHS lead.

Windham then held down the Eddies until the final buzzer to win their second regional championship.

“It means a lot (to be going to another state championship),” said Moody. “Battling through adversity ... knowing what it takes and executing at practice. I’m proud of us all, I love all my brothers, our community loves us. After a bucket, after a steal, after a rebound, after a timeout, they’re there cheering ... you have our whole community roaring when a three-pointer goes up – they’re there to support us. What we executed in practice (led to this win); practice is our main focus all the time. I’m proud of these guys – rebounding is a main factor, Diing what a great player he is ... I thought we executed pretty well. (Edward Little) came a long way – what a great team they’ve become. We just saw that, and we had to take another step, another level to beat this team; we did a great job at that. Boxing out, trying to rebound (went well). We just need to get back on defense ... transition defense, help-side defense, getting to our spots and after that we’re golden.” <

Her Mainely Girl Adventures: The Curse of the Sunday Buck

By Staci Warren

I have been hunting for 16 years now, and although I’ve gotten my Grand Slam, I still don’t have a Big Buck Club patch. In fact, I’ve never harvested a deer bigger than 8 points. As many hunters do, I dream about shooting a big buck, but I’ve yet to figure out the secret to being at the right place at the right time. I scout. I hunt the wind. I try to be scent-free. I use buck lure and calls and try to be as quiet as possible. And when that doesn’t produce, I change it up by not using any call or lure at all. I hunt every morning and afternoon that my schedule allows, including sitting in the rain.

Staci Warren took a photo of this buck that she observed in 
Maine on a Sunday when hunting was not permitted during
deer season last fall. PHOTO BY STACI WARREN

I watch deer all season but the last three years, deer seemed to disappear as soon as rifle season started. The rut season seemed almost non-existent, with a handful of does moving early mornings and evenings.

Last year, three smaller bucks sporadically showed up on my cameras. I really thought there were no big bucks where I was hunting. With no intention on shooting a little buck, I started calling the curled spikehorn, Loki, and the young buck with a tall-webbed antler, Crab Claw. I had not seen Big Guy, the ten-point buck that had been in area for the last three years, until September and then I didn’t see him again all season. After seeing more big bucks than ever, tagged at the nearby store and posted on Facebook, I assumed Big Guy was one of them.

Prior to the season, I had moved stands. I moved cameras so that deer wouldn’t try to avoid them. Then once the season started, I bow-hunted and then rifle-hunted moving to different spots miles apart when I felt like I was over-hunting a spot. It didn’t seem to matter. All I ever saw were a few does, and spikehorn bucks.

Then came the first Sunday sighting. My husband, John, was checking his beaver traps. On his way back he spotted a big buck just staring at him. All he could do was watch him walk away. No rifle as it was Sunday.

The second Sunday buck arrived right after a rainstorm. A big eight-pointer with no brow tines showed for one day, during prime morning shooting hours when I would be sitting in my stand had it not been Sunday. He was a monster, and it was the first and last time I saw him on my camera.

Two weeks later, a small buck showed up 6:40 a.m. – when I’d be sitting in my stand had it not been Sunday. It ate acorns for a good half hour. That same morning, a big wide ten-point buck had strolled right by my stand at 6:04 a.m., before legal shooting hours.

Rifle season ended with no deer. I purchased a muzzleloader permit and spent the next two weeks chasing the dream of a big buck. Every time a buck showed up, I would be so excited that when the alarm went off at 4:30 a.m. it was like the first day of hunting season all over again.

The next Sunday a buck chasing a doe filled my camera, which was also the first real rut action I had seen all season. I continued to see deer on my camera, but now they were strictly night images.

My season ended with seeing eight doe, two spikehorns, and a tall eight-pointer that I saw from my four- wheeler while checking traps. And of course, the bucks came back for a show once the season ended…on Sunday and every day after, of course.

Although I may not have harvested a buck, I’ve learned a lot about deer behavior—that they really do know when we aren’t in the woods. Since Sunday hunting probably will never happen, I can only hope that someday I’ll be able to outsmart a buck, or as others say, luck out. One thing’s for sure. There are big bucks where I hunt, at least on Sundays! My 2024 buck still didn’t get me my Big Buck Club patch, but it’s a beauty, and filled my freezer with meat for the next year, thankfully in time for the upcoming recession.

Congratulations to all of you who were successful in harvesting a deer this season.

Staci Warren provides a unique woman’s perspective and column on the outdoors every month. She is a freelance writer whose blog, My Mainely Girl Adventures, is about a woman hunting, fishing, trapping, foraging and living in the Maine outdoors. She also loves camping, star gazing, wildlife watching, and hunting for fossils. She’s an active member and board member of the New England Outdoor Writers Association and is a monthly columnist and feature writer for The Maine Sportsman Magazine. In her free time, she enjoys mentoring women hunters and trappers. <

Trail Blazers fall to Saint Dominic Academy in regular-season hockey finale

By Matt Pascarella

The Windham/Bonny Eagle/Westbrook Trail Blazers took on Saint Dominic Academy in their final game of the regular prep hockey season on Wednesday, Feb. 19 at the University of Southern Maine in Gorham and although the Trail Blazers fought hard, they came out on the wrong end of a 2-0 score.

Senior Cole Heanssler of Windham maneuvers toward the
goal during a Trail Blazers prep hockey game against
Saint Dominic Academy on Feb. 19.
PHOTO BY MATT PASCARELLA

It was Senior Night and Windham’s Ben Shaw, Erik DuPont, Sam Foley, Philip Traina, Shaun Traina, Cole Heanssler and Bonny Eagle’s Massimo Massaro and Shep Howard were recognized for their time and dedication to the sport of hockey throughout their high school careers.

“We’ve come off kind of a winning streak,” said Heanssler. “We started to get comfortable expecting wins instead of working for them, so we came out pretty slow and ended up going down and it was just a struggle to recover; we weren’t able to generate any offensive plays. We all kind of worked our hardest, especially in the last few minutes of the third (period). I don’t feel like we’re the team that starts losing and gives up, I think we worked until the end there – it just didn’t work the way we wanted to. I think our breakouts were doing pretty good, we were able to get it out of the zone pretty easily. We did have shots on net; I think we need to start working the puck a little more in the offensive zone, especially up to our defensemen. (We need) movement and getting more shots on net; we need it to be a team rotation of all five guys.”

Trail Blazers came out strong with a shot on goal in the first 45 seconds. They were working to be first to the puck. Saint Dominic Academy led 1-0 after one period.

In the second period, Trail Blazers worked hard to score. They were aggressive and battled. Saint Dominic Academy scored again, but the Trail Blazers weren’t discouraged. They had solid puck movement and really pressured toward the end of the period.

“It’s just not really what we’re looking for,” said DuPont. “We had a lot of guys sick; that’s definitely part of it. There’s not really a specific factor – we win as a team; we lose as a team. Definitely when we were working pucks low to high, that works well – we just got to get back to that, I guess. Better puck movement was working ... move our feet more, move pucks faster, get our heads up (needs work); collectively get better chemistry together and get ready to work at that playoff level speed.”

The Trail Blazer defense kept Saint Dominic Academy scoreless during the third period, and Trail Blazer offense were first to the puck and had several solid shots on goal, but didn’t score.

“What went well was our goalie played really, really well,” said Trail Blazer coach Bobby Fothergill. “We’ve asked a lot of him this year and he’s delivered; he’s worked really hard to get better and better before each game. We had glimpses of good offense zone time – I never question their effort, their effort is always there, it was more just poor execution. When we did execute ... working pucks low to high, high to low, getting the d(efense) involved, we had 12 good minutes this whole game.”

As Fothergill looks to the postseason, he said the team needs to play their game and play with intensity, passion and love of the game. He said he doesn’t want his players to make things bigger than needed and to just play hockey.

The Trail Blazers will play Thornton Academy in the playoff quarterfinals at the Biddeford Ice Arena at 5:40 p.m. Saturday, March 1. <

Wolfpack wrestling team turns in solid showing at State Championships

By Matt Pascarella

The Windham/Gray-New Gloucester/Westbrook varsity Wolfpack wrestling team had a total of six prep wrestlers and four alternates qualify for the State Championships, which was held at the Lewiston Colisee on Saturday, Feb. 15. Windham seniors CK Kennedy, Ayden Cofone, freshman Tristen Merchant, Gray-New Gloucester senior Spencer Fields and Westbrook sophomores Jajjad Jumaah and Cole Tanner all qualified to compete in the event.

Windham senior Ayden Cofone flips his Massabesic opponent
during the finals of the Maine Principal's Association State
Championship Meet in Lewiston on Saturday, Feb. 15.
PHOTO BY MATT PASCARELLA 

Cofone won his third state title in four years after he defeated Massabesic in the finals in 43 seconds, with a score of 15-0. The Wolfpack placed 14th overall.

“It always feels good, especially at a state tournament, to do what you want to do,” said Cofone. “I knew I had it locked up, I put him on his back again and I thought to myself, ‘that’s it, I just got my third.’ The ultimate goal is always a New England Championship title, but three state titles are cool. (A New England title) is what I’m striving for and what I’m going to keep working towards. I know what I’m capable of and I’m the best on the mat when I step on the mat. I go in with that mindset ... I thought I did good at top-game, always turning, always looking for another tilt, always getting more points because you rack up the points, you win easy.”

In the quarterfinals, Ayden defeated Kennebunk 8-0. He defeated Cony 3-0 in the semifinals to advance to the finals.

Wolfpack wrestling coach John Nicholas said Ayden has accomplished so many great things in his career and will go down as the best Windham wrestler of all time. He is really impressed by Cofone’s toughness. Cofone has set the bar high for future wrestlers.

Merchant, Jumaah, Kennedy, Tanner and Fields all fought hard, but lost in the quarterfinals and consolation rounds. Fields finished in sixth place.

“I like being here because ... it’s something to give my passion to and something to put my hard work into,” said Fields, who qualified for the state championship for his first time. “I put all my passion in tonight. Mentally matches can be difficult as well as physically. I’d say that’s definitely the hardest part about this sport is that mental fortitude and that strive to keep pushing, through that match. I think the team has done really well; everyone has put out 110 percent. Even for these new guys they look great on the mat. Out of the six guys the came to states, we all tried our hardest. For the team (there has been) a lot of improvement technique-wise, physically, mentally – this sport just boosts your endurance overall. I’ve grown overall as a person and as well as just in the sport ... (wrestling) really makes me focus harder on every aspect of my life.”

Nicholas said we were very pleased with Cofone’s performance, and the rest of the team wrestled well and gained a lot of valuable experience.

“This was the most wrestlers we have qualified for the state tournament,” said Nicholas. “We knew we had a strong team this year, but we were plagued by sickness and injuries the entire season. The main goal was to get healthy and to improve our conditioning. We were able to do both of those things heading into the postseason. We are a pretty young team, so it was important for a lot of the kids to experience competition at the state level. Also, wrestling in bigger venues with big crowds should help us in the future. Many of the wrestlers are coming back next year and we are very proud of how our seniors conducted themselves.” <

Windham indoor track and field teams go full strength in Class A State Championships

By Matt Pascarella

As the winter indoor track season draws to a close, a select team from the Windham High boys’ and girls’ teams headed to the University of Southern Maine in Gorham on Monday, Feb. 17 to compete against schools from all over the state.

WHS senior Carter Engelman clears the pole vault bar
during the Class A Indoor Track and Field State
Championships held Feb. 17 at the University of Southern
Maine in Gorham. PHOTO BY MATT PASCARELLA

Out of 23 teams, Windham’s girls finished sixth overall with a score of 33; while the boys finished eighth with a score of 26.

Girls

Senior Tayla Pelletier became a state champ and set a new school record of 8.46 seconds in the 55-meter hurdles. She also placed first in the triple jump with a distance of 36-8.5 feet; she finished third in the long jump with a 17-5.25 distance.

The girls 4x800-meter relay wasn’t slotted to make the podium (top eight), but the team of senior Abigail Dumont, juniors Emma Fox, Demetria Nicholas and Sydney Broadbent earned a seventh-place finish with a time of 10:56.78 minutes.

They’ve been working since July; even working hard in the cold. It was rewarding to place seventh and a bonding experience. The three juniors gave it their all for Dumont.

Windham girls’ indoor track and field coach Jeff Riddle said these girls perfectly fit the mission statement of this team. They exemplify who the Windham team wants to be.

“I just wanted to give it my all, that’s usually how I go into meets,” said Dumont. “I knew I’d been preparing all week; I’m going to be bold; I’m going to be brave; I’m going to have grit ... it definitely helps to have my girls with me, they pushed me through it. I’ve worked hard and I’m just super proud of all of us.”

In the triple jump, senior Ava Gerrity placed seventh with a distance of 33-5. In the long jump she had a distance of 15-6.

Senior Marina Schwarz threw 30-11 in the shot put and finished in seventh place.

Junior Nealie Morey finished seventh in the high jump with a 4-10 height.

“These state qualifiers had to sustain focus, put in real time, and work really hard for each and every inch gained, or time drop earned all season,” said Riddle. “We make the impossible, possible. We ... are very impressed with our athletes' attitudes and capacities to work to overcome the constant hurdles in our way. Senior captains had to lead us to outwit the short cold days of winter, train in hallways, constantly lift each other up, all as they pursued their goals as well. How these senior captains and seniors powered through it all stood out to us.”

Boys

Carter Engelman tied his personal best height in the pole vault and came in second with a vault of 14-6. He came in third in the 55-hurdles with a time of 8.04. In the long jump he finished eighth with a distance of 20-9.75.

“It’s always good to be here, the competitions always great,” said Engelman. “I was mainly just competing against myself. I think I’ve learned a lot about myself today, (even if) the times and heights haven’t been there. It’s definitely a good learning experience.”

In the 55-dash, senior Karl Longstreth beat his own school record with a time of 6.56.

“I thought all of our hurdlers did an awesome job,” said Windham boys’ indoor track and field coach Paula Pock. Carter and Rory (Good) both did excellent in the 55-hurdles; Carter just started long jumping this season and he ended up placing in that which was a bonus event; then he came back and got second, tying the school record in the pole vault. He is now in the top 10 for (indoor) pole vaulters in the state of Maine. Another surprise was Mason Arbour in the high jump, he ended up placing sixth place and he’s coming off a really bad flu ... that’s definitely a highlight.”

In the 55-hurdles, Good came in fourth with a time of 8.06.

In the high jump, jump Arbour finished sixth with a height of 5-10.

Junior Connor Witham finished the 200-dash with a time of 24.90. <

WHS increases energy in second half to shut down Deering on Senior Night

By Matt Pascarella

Windham varsity boys’ basketball played Deering in its final home and regular game of the season on Friday, Feb. 7, and although the Eagles started a little slow, they quickly turned their game around and sent the Rams packing, 68-56.

Windham junior Tyrie James takes the ball to the hoop during
a boys' prep basketball game against Deering High School
at Windham High on Friday, Feb. 7.
PHOTO BY AIDEN HALL 

It was Senior Night for WHS and Joseph Blige, Lukas Hammond, Conor Janvrin, Esa Antonio, James Ammons, Grant Coppi, Braycen Freese, and Creighty Dickson, as well as cheerleaders Morgan Beck, Ella Roberts and Talia Salazar were honored along with their parents, for their time and commitment to Windham Athletics and were presented with a small gift from their coaches.

“It was bittersweet,” said Freese about Senior Night. “I’ve been waiting four years to be in this position and now that it’s finally here, it’s a little sad. You always work for nights like this and once it gets here, it’s gone so fast. Everyone agreed we weren’t playing to our full potential in the first half, and we needed to pick up the energy. I thought we did really good stopping Deering’s best player. I think offensively we could have moved the ball better, had better shots, and not played so timid with the ball in our hands. I think it was their defense and now that we’ve seen that defense, we can grow from it and play better the next time.”

It was a close game for the entire first half. Windham was stellar from the top of the key; Freese, junior AJ Moody, junior Tyrie James and sophomore Colin Janvrin all sank three-pointers in the first half. This fast-paced game was tight, and Windham led 27-25 at halftime.

“Great atmosphere ... I think our energy on the defensive end and overall, we moved the ball around and just kept playing,” said Dickson, who scored 14 points against Deering. “We knew we had to step it up in order to win and bringing that energy we just played better. Our rotations on the defensive end need work. On the good side, I thought our ball movement was good, and our defensive pressure was really good.”

Defense and a more intense offense allowed Windham to take a small lead at the end of the third quarter. Tensions were high and the crowd was electric; early in the fourth quarter, Windham led by 10. As the clock wound down, Windham increased that lead and pressured.

James said it is the energy on and off the court that motivates this WHS team. He said they came out flat with an attitude that they were supposed to win but were more disciplined and came together as a team in the second half.

“It’s just a great group of kids (the seniors),” said Windham varsity boys basketball coach Chad Pulkkinen. “The season goes by quick – the time is now for them. Just seeing those guys play their final home game and play like we wanted to which was with a lot of joy and gave it all they got. We’ve got to trust one another; we’re going to go through a lot of adversity no matter what. Guys have been in tough situations in really big games and really close games, so our starting core has been through a lot and even our bench players will come in and contribute and give everything we need. Our guys were playing really hard and knocking down shots, and we wanted to continue to play together with that energy and effort. If you consistently do that, good things will happen. Our experience helps us hold onto a lead like that against a really good team. Having Tyrie back is nice, having everyone healthy is nice; we’re excited for the team.” <

Windham varsity cheerleading’s hard work evident during state competition

By Matt Pascarella

Windham’s varsity cheering squad qualified for the state competition after finishing sixth in the regional competition on Saturday, Feb. 1. They competed at the state competition against schools from all over Maine at the Augusta Civic Center on Saturday, Feb. 8, where they did a fantastic job.

Windham junior Maddi Kovats, front, with the Windham 
High Cheerleading Team behind her, synchronize a jump
as part of a cheer routine at the Augusta Civic Center 
during the state cheerleading competition on Saturday,
Feb. 8. PHOTO BY MATT PASCARELLA
 

Making it to the state competition was a huge goal for the team, so it was already a win, before they even took to the mat. Every Windham cheerleader was integral to the team’s success.

“They continued to come in every day with a positive attitude and mindset,” said Windham varsity cheerleading coach Amber DiRenzo Bushey. “They worked together as a team to perfect skills and gain new ones. It truly was a successful season. Our opening stunts I thought went really well, our dismount was a little off on one of them, but the actual skill itself went very well. The girls were determined and never gave up.”

DiRenzo Bushey said the Windham team changed all their tumbling routines before the state competition, and she thought that it went well.

“Our goal is to come out and do the best we can do. We just want to do better than last year and keep improving,” she said. “We improved our partner stunt technique as well. They put on a great performance at states; we couldn't ask for a more determined hard-working group of kids. I had a blast with these kids; they are all willing to work so hard, get new skills and try new things, it’s been awesome.”

The team dealt with a lot of challenges near the end of the season and had to rework the entire routine. The team has worked consistently on improving their stunts and tumbling skills. It worked all season to perfect their 360-switch up, and half-switch up, which they performed perfectly.

According to DiRenzo Bushey, Windham’s cheerleaders worked hard to hit coed switch-ups in their pyramid, which are extremely difficult. She said the team also worked hard to perfect their toe touch back handsprings and running tumbling and they all came together to put out the best routine possible.

“It was kind of sad that we didn’t have as many baskets,” said Windham senior Ella Roberts. “We did have one basket in the back that went high; our pyramid was pretty good because it showed off our coeds – when you only have two people under a stunt. As long as we’re proud of ourselves, it’s good either way, whatever we place, as long as we’re happy with (how we performed). Be proud of how far you’ve come, because inside it’s a lot.”

Windham senior Morgan Beck said that the team definitely got stronger through their performances and every time it was better and better. She said that she was happy with how the team performed and was glad she experienced her final competition with this team and was proud they gave their all.

“I’m so proud of us, we’ve been through a lot,” said Windham senior Talia Salazar. “We had to switch things around and I’m really proud of what we did today. I really love all the girls on this team.” <

Windham Unified basketball falls to Portland/Deering by one point

By Matt Pascarella

In a hard-fought game where Windham’s Unified basketball team gave their all, the clock wound down and Portland/Deering edged Windham, 40-39, on Wednesday, Jan. 29 at Windham High School.

Windham senior Colby Schmid rises above his opponents
to make a one-handed shot during a Unified basketball
game against Portland/Deering on Wednesday, Jan. 29
at Windham High School.
PHOTO BY MATT PASCARELLA

Windham took several solid shots that just did not land late in the game.

“I think we did very well this game,” said Windham senior Colby Schmid. “We did better at getting inside (the paint). My buddy Zach and I struggled with the three-pointers. I think we did great at scoring, and I think we do need to work on passing.”

There were a lot of positive aspects shown during this game, including Windham players giving other players an opportunity to move the ball or go in to take a shot. Windham had several stellar opportunities they took full advantage of with Mary Jean, Maddi Small, Zachary O’Brion, Tristan Stanley, Colby Schmid, Jacob Smith and Jack Shirley showing true sportsmanship.

Windham moved the ball well and soon they were on the scoreboard. The Eagles had a small lead to start, but after some time the game was tied.

Portland/Deering took the lead, then Windham snatched it back; this was a very tight game. Windham defense worked hard to limit scoring opportunities for their opponent.

O’Brion had a nice turnover, and the game was tied 14-14 with less than four minutes left in the first half.

Midway through the game, Portland/Deering led, 18-16.

At the start of the second half, O’Brion hit a three-pointer; a few moments later he did it again. This remained a very close game. Windham rebounded and continued to work hard.

Schmid sunk a three-pointer. The game was tied at 24-24.

Portland/Deering took the lead. Windham tried very hard to flip the score, but time ran out.

It felt good for O’Brion to sink his two three-pointers he said. This was a very tough loss and Windham was so close. They need to work on defense and rebounds.

“A ton of rebounds (during this game) we’re hitting the board so much better,” said Windham Unified basketball coach Anne Blake. “Our problem is we’re not moving in to do the close, confident shots; we’re (attempting) too many three-pointers. The rebounds have improved and the team’s playing with a lot more unity. I just think all the partners and athletes worked really well together; we played in a festival last weekend, and this is our third game for the season, so I think we’ve really improved since our practice with the festival. I think the team is starting to improve and the teamwork is showing. Layups (need work).”

Unified Sports joins people with and without intellectual disabilities on the same team. It was inspired by a simple principle: training together and playing together is a quick path to friendship and understanding. <

Windham girls’ basketball crushes Falmouth on Senior Night

By Matt Pascarella

The Windham varsity girls’ basketball team crushed Falmouth 73-19 on Tuesday, Feb. 4 at Windham High School.

Windham senior Stella Jarvais takes the ball to the basket
during a girls' prep basketball game against Falmouth on
Tuesday, Feb. 4 at Windham High School. 
PHOTO BY MATT PASCARELLA 

Before the game, the team honored Stella Jarvais on Senior Night and presented a gift for her and for her parents for their time and dedication to Windham athletics during Stella’s high school career.

“It’s something really special coming through the years of this program,” said Jarvais, who scored 26 points against Falmouth. “I love this team, and it’s really cool for them to recognize all the years I put into it. It’s kind of surreal (to maybe have played my last home game) because I will not be playing basketball beyond these years. It’s something special to share the court with my sister, because I will not be playing with her in college; so being able to spend this time with Mackenzie (Delewski) and my friends and my sister, it’s something really special.”

Windham came out strong and put up 19 points in just the first quarter. Windham sophomore Denali Momot sank a three-pointer. The squad’s incredible defense held Falmouth to just five points.

In the second quarter, Windham junior Marley Jarvais hit a three-pointer. Windham led by 20 and their offense would not be stopped. At the half Windham led, 37-12.

“I thought our team defense went very well tonight,” said Windham junior Chloe Delewski. “We did a great job defending the perimeter followed by boxing out and rebounding. I thought that tonight our offense was executed well but when we face stronger defenses, we will need to be sharper. It felt great getting this big win because we got the whole team involved and it was just an amazing show that we put on for the crowd. Stella leaving means ... we are losing one of our closest friends and outstanding players on the team. It won’t be the same without her next year.”

At the start of the second half, Windham’s lead grew to 30 points. They rebounded and Windham’s defense kept Falmouth scoreless in the third quarter.

“Passing, getting into our offense, being able to cut and read the defense, so stuff like that went well,” said Stella Jarvais. “Our shooting percentage went up. Just communication I feel like is always a thing that teams can work on; and turnovers, in a lot of the games that came close and came down to the last minute were due to turnovers, so limiting turnovers we can work on.”

In the fourth quarter, a block from Windham freshman Eliana Kostopoulos showed Falmouth who was in control.

Windham sophomore Leandra Woodman sank two three-pointers and Windham freshman Lauren Valle hit a three-pointer too.

“Tonight was about celebrating Stella and honoring her and her four years with us,” said Windham varsity girls’ basketball coach Brody Artes. “It was good for us to get out and run and put some points on the board. We had a lot of kids do that; we had a lot of kids score today. Good opportunity to kind of get up and down and climb ... the ladder towards the playoffs, just trying to get better every day. We were able to dip in that bench a bit earlier than we usually do and get some kids some experience and everybody did a good job. I think at times, we need to get them up and contest shots a little bit better on the perimeter. We got to contain shots a bit better – we did well today, but against better teams we’ve got to make sure we do that. Offensively we’ve got to move the ball, I thought we did well with that today. We’ve got to be strong at the rim, finishing inside and making our free throws when we need to.”

Artes said when Stella Jarvais came in as a freshman, her ability was raw, but she worked at it and improved over the course of her career. She’s a good teammate, plays hard, is a great defensive player and a great kid. <

Cheverus/Windham/Medomak girls’ hockey holds off Yarmouth/Falmouth

By Matt Pascarella

An early goal and strong defense from the Cheverus/Windham/Medomak girls’ hockey team made a real difference during a late-season game against Yarmouth/Falmouth. Cheverus/Windham/Medomak were able to keep their opponent scoreless and posted a 1-0 win on Thursday, Jan. 30 at the William B. Troubh Ice Arena.

Cheverus junior Ashley Cloutier of Windham goes after the
puck during a girls' prep hockey game against Yarmouth/
Falmouth on Thursday, Jan. 30 at the William B. Troubh
Ice Arena in Portland. PHOTO BY MATT PASCARELLA  

“I thought we were playing a really good third period and we made some adjustments to our forecheck, until we took that penalty with about five minutes to go,” said the Cheverus/Windham/Medomak coach Scott Rousseau. “I thought we handled the last two minutes well; it’s always hectic ... but a great learning experience. We managed the puck well, we did not panic and not take icings and in the last minute I don’t think they really got a scoring chance. We only have four players back and I really hope these eight first-year players are ready for what’s coming; the playoffs are even more intense than this. If you interview (Yarmouth/Falmouth’s) coach, we made each other look bad, it was 1-0, it’s what good teams do to each other. We kind of took some of their strengths away, they took some of our strengths away. At the end we did show a lot of heart and character and find a way to win – and that matters.”

Cheverus/Windham/Medomak hit the ice with strong defense as these two teams were very evenly matched. Cheverus/Windham/Medomak moved the puck well and had intensity the entire game.

Cheverus sophomore Caroline Rousseau scored roughly halfway through the first period. Windham freshman Taylor Lucas had a solid check before the first period buzzer. It was 1-0 Cheverus/Windham/Medomak after one period.

In the second period, Cheverus/Windham/Medomak’s intensity remained, and their defense made sure to cut off scoring opportunities for Yarmouth/Falmouth. Cheverus goalie Ellie Skolnekovich had super-fast hands and kept a lot of pucks away from the back of the net.

“I see it as just another game,” said Skolnekovich, who had 21 saves during the game. “That’s my hometown – I get fired up when I play them, and I know their roster. It’s a 0-0 game in my head the whole way through and it’s really great. I think from the top down, we played really well; we played well as a team. We’re together ... and I think the biggest thing is I can’t thank my defense enough; I cover a puck and they’re right there to get people out of the way, I cover the puck, and they are right in front of me not letting anybody get to me and that’s really, really what builds our team up. I think we can pass the puck more and I think we can make less mental mistakes in the last two minutes of the game. I think we had a lot of adrenaline going and since it was a 1-0 game, it got a little bit intense at the end and I think that we can just build from there. I play a 0-0 game; my adrenaline was going, and I just played my game.”

Tensions built in the third and final period as both teams worked hard to put something up on the scoreboard. A block by Skolnekovich with a little over a minute left coupled with Cheverus/Windham/Medomak’s defense only amplified this team’s tenacity. They kept back Yarmouth/Falmouth until the last buzzer.

“I think our forecheck was able to set it up differently so we can contain their better players,” said Lucas. “Our goalie played amazing tonight; she saved us. We had some good forechecks towards the beginning of the third period that went well. I think that we just need to work on getting the puck out faster in ... the defensive zone and move our feet.” <

WHS boys’ basketball drops home matchup against Cheverus

By Matt Pascarella

Windham boys’ varsity basketball came out strong in their second game against Cheverus this season at Windham High School on Friday, Jan. 24. The Eagles were neck-and-neck with the Stags until late in the third quarter when Cheverus pulled ahead and stayed there until the final buzzer with Windham falling, 66-51.

Windham senior Creighty Dickson cuts toward the hoop
during a boys' prep basketball game against Cheverus
at Windham High School on Friday, Jan. 24.
PHOTO BY AIDEN HALL

“I thought we played well; we kind of didn’t play our game and kind of just let off the gas a little bit in the third and they started coming back and they are a totally capable team of doing that,” said Windham junior AJ Moody. “It just didn’t go our way; sometimes fouls get in the way and they had some good free-throw shooters. We need to play defense with our hands up, stay in front of our man help side and try not to slap down the ball and get fouls. We came down and beat ourselves tonight. I saw even though we got fouled we got back up and got right back at them, we shot our best, and I was really proud of all of our guys. We tried to do our thing, sometimes the outcome is not what we want.”

When Cheverus pulled ahead, Windham answered early and tied the game at 13. Windham senior Braycen Freese sank a three-pointer, then Moody followed Freese and connected from long range too.

At halftime, the game was tied at 27-27.

In the first two minutes of the second half, sophomore Colin Janvrin hit a three-pointer, then did it again a short time later.

The game remained tight until late in the third quarter, when Cheverus grabbed a small lead. By the fourth quarter they pulled away even further.

Freese hit another three-pointer, but as the game progressed, Windham was unable to make up the difference against the Stags.

“We got the right shots and the open shots,” said Windham senior Creighty Dickson, who scored 16 points. “We just weren’t hitting tonight – sometimes that happens. I thought our effort was there, we played hard until the end. I think our defensive intensity in the first half was really good, our ball movement was fantastic in the second half and the first half too. Getting back on defense, rotating and getting to the help side (needs work). This is a bump in the road, this is more motivation for the main goal.”

According to Janvrin, this loss will only make the team stronger. They will embrace it and turn up the intensity during practice, taking it game-by-game. Janvrin said they went in with a stronger mentality the last time they played the Stags; this time, they didn’t play as hard as they could and let up a bit toward the end. They’ve got to come out after halftime with the same mentality they had going into the game.

“Our guys played hard and it’s going to be a good game every time we play Cheverus,” said Windham varsity boys’ basketball coach Chad Pulkkinen. “We had opportunities, we really liked what we got for looks and we missed them and that’s part of basketball. The fact that our guys fought the entire time that’s what I was proud of. (Cheverus) is a good team and we have some guys (injured) right now, and that’s ok and we’re just taking this game as a learning experience. We’ve got a lot of guys on our bench that are ready to play and ready to step up and that’s a great opportunity for them tonight and that’ll just only make us better and stronger. Colin’s a sophomore, he’s started two games now for Tyrie – that’s huge moments for him, we’re going to need him to step up big and he has. We’re extremely confident in who we have for guys. (What went) well (was) composure and fight, consistency in that was really good. Offensively, we got the shots that we wanted. At the end of the day, it’s being ready for those shots, and they weren’t bad misses, but it changes the game. We’re not fazed by this; this is only going to fuel us.” <