Windham High varsity field hockey preparing for 2025 season

By Matt Pascarella

Windham’s varsity field hockey team has been preparing for the fall season all summer long and they are ready and excited to start their preseason on Aug. 18; with the regular season beginning on Sept. 5. The team has a new coach this season, Maddy Perfetti, a graduate of Colby College.

Windham sophomore Mia Kri, left, goes after the ball in a
prep field hockey game against Noble at Windham High
School in August 2024. The WHS varsity field hockey
team has been establishing their skills over the summer
as they prepare for the start of a new season.
PHOTO BY MATT PASCARELLA

“We’ve done a lot of basic stick work and talked through a bunch of field awareness so I think coming into the fall we can focus more on strategic and elevated things,” said Windham senior Abby Trainor. “Our team will definitely be very young; I think it helps with the majority of our team being underclassman; there’s a lot of room for growth through the season.”

Trainor said Perfetti brings new skills and ideas to their play. Perfetti has helped elevate their play because she’s very knowledgeable. Perfetti has introduced new stick work drills through the summer that helps their stick work in tight spaces and short distances. They will definitely have success this season and Trainor can’t wait to start competing.

“Being a young team, and losing a strong class of 2025, I am learning what gaps we need to fill–whether that's a leadership role off the field or in the backfield, all roles are up for redefining,” said Perfetti. “Through the summer I saw girls trying out these potentially new roles while also being open to my coaching style and approach to the game.”

The summer was an opportunity for the players and its new coach to bond as well as the players to start to coalesce on the field. They’ve made some good progress.

“Getting the team together early in the summer, definitely helps bond the team and get us more comfortable before the regular season,” said Windham junior Sarah Smyth. “It is important to get to know ... players before jumping into the season. It also helps us get well conditioned and in shape before preseason week and the regular season. I have seen the team’s overall skills improve with every practice and summer game. Communication is a big part of the game, and at the beginning of the season it was difficult to communicate with new teammates, but the more games we played we got more comfortable with communicating and learning how everyone plays.”

According to Smyth, it is really cool to experience different coaching styles. Since Perfetti played at Colby College, a lot of the drills they do are unique from past seasons and very effective. Smyth said she realized she (wants) to be a leader and is happy to step into that role and be a good example for the underclassmen.

“The team improved a lot over the summer,” said Perfetti. “There are a group of committed members to the team that showed up to three sessions a week for the whole summer. This progress will only continue through the fall season. The summer is an opportunity for the girls to prepare for the fall season, and it is up to them how much they utilize that. We spent time playing together in a low-stakes environment this summer in an effort to build relationships between the girls that were there. I would say this was a success. Preseason will take on a new energy with very intentional team building. My goals as a coach are to create an environment where players can be themselves, compete with intensity, and care about winning.” <

Windham I girls’ varsity soccer team shuts out Greely in final summer game

By Matt Pascarella

The Windham I girls’ soccer team, similar to the WHS varsity soccer team, played their final summer game of the season against Greely at the Twin Brooks Recreation Area in Cumberland on Wednesday, July 16. Windham played hard for two halves and mowed down the Rangers, 7-0.

Windham sophomore Maria Rose is the first player to the
ball during a girls' varsity summer soccer game against
Greely at the Twin Brooks Recreation Area in
Cumberland on Wednesday, July 16.
PHOTO BY MATT PASCARELLA

“The takeaway from this game is how strong the team’s going to be, working together and how we can build throughout the season,” said Windham junior Maya Dries. “At the beginning of summer soccer we were starting to piece things together and getting comfortable with everybody and having this be our final game really showed how we can piece things together with our hard work and determination. Today, our defense went well, throughout the season our communication has really built (up), which has helped. Our passing through the middle has gotten way better and being there for our teammates when we need them and our communication out of the back has been really helpful.”

In the first half, both team’s defenses were strong, and no one scored until roughly midway through the half. Windham senior Nola Bryant scored on a direct kick that went out of reach of the goalie.

Windham players took multiple shots at the Greely goalkeeper, and a short time later, senior Marley Jarvais scored, followed by Dries. At the half, Windham led, 3-0.

Intensity did not dip for the Eagles despite the heat. Jarvais scored twice at the top of the half.

“This was probably our best summer soccer game (of the season),” said Jarvais. “Our passing, our building out of the back, our goals, everyone was there ... to finish. Our crosses were amazing; we just played amazing as a whole team tonight.”

Windham controlled the field, and their defense remained tough. Dries scored and then sophomore Maria Rose found the back of the net.

“From this game, I think we’ve grown even from just like a month of soccer,” said Rose. “I think our season is going to be really good, we have very strong relationships on the team and we’re going to have a great year. I saw good communication, we’re fast, our passing and everything is really coming together.”

Windham varsity girls’ soccer coach Deb Lebel said they had some big holes to fill after losing nine seniors last year. Initially, they thought this might be a bit of a down year but quickly realized this could be a team they have the most depth on; they’re going to be able to rest kids a little bit. Last year, kids didn’t come off the field, and there’s more opportunity for that this year which has been a goal of Lebel’s; to get more players in and to get more kids involved and they should be able to do that in the fall.

“Great chance for some of the underclassmen to step up and give everyone a lot of playing time,” said Lebel. “We’re really starting to communicate better, so when they keep the width and play with each other that’s starting to really come together, making runs and it’s that second ball that they’re automatically getting there. That’s evolved over the summer. We’re still figuring out, where we can get the most out of kids; as we continue to gain confidence, we’ll still be in the thick of things come tournament time.” <

Windham boys’ freshman basketball pulls ahead in final moments of Gorham game to earn win

By Matt Pascarella

The Windham boys’ basketball first team squad, comprised of all freshman players, traveled to play Gorham on Monday, July 29 and ended the summer with a victory.

Windham freshman Colton McLeod goes up for a layup
on Monday, July 29 in the final game of the boys' First Team
basketball summer season against Gorham.
PHOTO BY MATT PASCARELLA

Windham trailed the Rams for most of the game, then took the lead with roughly a minute left and held off Gorham to earn a 33-30 win in the final game of the summer basketball season.

“I think one of the biggest things is they stayed composed,” said Windham First Team coach Cameron Brown. “We’ve had a lot of close games this summer and there’ve been times we kept our composure and times we kind of lost it. It reflects on the scoreboard when we play within ourselves and we know what we want to do; towards the end of the game, don’t get too sped up, those are the things that have been successful for us. Just being down three, you know [Gorham] is going to go for a quick three-pointer ... the biggest thing for us was high hands without fouling and they executed really well.”

Windham was slow to start, but this would all change later in the game. Gorham held a small lead but Windham’s Quraunte Pender put the Eagles on the scoreboard.

After battling hard, Windham came within one point of a tie game. They worked hard to get rebounds, though Gorham kept the lead by getting several turnovers. Windham was rebounding and tied the game at 14. Gorham took the lead 18-16 at the half.

“They had the lead most of the first half and that was tough,” said Windham’s Boston Krainis. “But moving the ball, cutting, spacing, and obviously Jalen [Stephens] with the big three [-pointer] at the end and we were able to pass it around, move it in the last two minutes and finish up the game there.

In the last 30 seconds, Windham looked to see who was open, tried to get open, moved around and waited until Gorham fouled – they just didn’t want to turn the ball over.

Pender tied the game at 18 in the second half. Gorham still led, but the game was within reach. Windham snagged a few rebounds, and Gorham led by four with six minutes remaining.

Windham’s Parker Frost hit a three-pointer and Windham is now down by one point with just four minutes left. Stephens sunk a three-pointer with a minute left in play.

“We really took pride on defense when they were driving down the court,” said Windham’s Mason Rulman. “We tried to make no turnovers while on offense, that helped us win. We focused on what we were doing, not trying to make mistakes, we were able to get to the basket and score. We put a lot of work in at practice and it shows when we come out here and play.”

Coach Brown said that his biggest takeaway from the summer season is that the team came in and they wanted to learn, they wanted to get better; and they put themselves in situations so they could get better.”

He said they know what this program can be, and they want to be a part of it. <

Windham I girls’ soccer upsets Freeport in substantial victory

By Matt Pascarella

Windham’s girls’ summer soccer team, known as Windham I, and made up of returning varsity players, played Freeport in a mid-season game at Windham High School on Monday, July 8. Windham was an incredibly cohesive unit and dominated the field to shut out Freeport, 6-0.

Windham junior Myla Vercoe looks to pass on Monday, 
July 8 during a summer soccer game against Freeport at
Windham High School. PHOTO BY MATT PASCARELLA

“I think that the team’s communication and how well we connected our passing tonight helped us a lot,” said Windham junior Marley Jarvais, who scored three of Windham’s six goals. “Every game this summer we’ve managed to do a very good job at those two things, and I think that’s what is helping us out with scoring a lot. The bond we all have with each other off the field as a team helps us so much when we step onto the field.”

The goal of the summer soccer season is to come together and play as a group, it helps identify leaders among the team and allows athletes to play a variety of positions before preseason starts. The team is able to bond and really get to know one another. It’s a laid-back atmosphere and while winning is nice, the goal is for athletes to improve themselves.

Despite the heat, Windham kept up their intensity for two halves. 55 seconds into the first half, Jarvais scored. A short time later, she launched a ball that found the back of the net.

Windham moved the ball well, communicated and had rock solid defense, which limited Freeport’s chances significantly. The Lady Eagles commanded the field with multiple shots on goal and led 2-0 at the half.

“Our chemistry is definitely getting a lot better, especially as a team,” said Windham junior Myla Vercoe, who scored in the second half. “We know each other’s strengths and weaknesses, which really helps on the field with who can do what and having trust in our team with who can finish and make those goals. I’ve benefited [from playing summer soccer] a lot from becoming more self-confident ... through obviously practice and getting a lot closer with the team it’s made me go out of my comfort zone and try new things and get new skills. I’m really excited for this upcoming season because we work so well together.”

According to Jarvais, playing summer soccer helps her get extra touches on the ball and try new stuff before fall begins. It also gives her the opportunity to see how her opponents may play before the regular season starts.

In the second half, Windham kept the pressure on Freeport. They had multiple shots on goal early on and remained a strong team. Jarvais and Vercoe both scored; freshman Emily Wardwell followed, and sophomore Isabella Vassoler knocked one in.

“We’re off to a great start,” said Windham varsity girls’ soccer coach Deb Lebel. “I feel like kid’s dedication ... they’re trying things in the summer that they’re afraid to do in the regular season. Here we’re like ‘make all the mistakes you want,’ and it’s really taken their game to another level. Tonight, we saw kids all over the place ... and that was fun to see. Our bench is going to be pretty strong this year. We’re looking forward to the fall. Our switching fields went really well tonight; we’re learning to not take those outside shots right at the goalie, we’re putting them more on the six to give our teammates the opportunity to score rather than kicking it right to the goalie. A lot of Windham players have played together for a while, so they are communicating really well.” <

Windham varsity boys’ basketball wraps up successful summer session

By Matt Pascarella

It’s been a busy and productive summer for the Windham High School boys’ basketball team. They became Gold Rush champions during a basketball camp at Thomas College in Waterville. The entire team has been working hard each morning showing up for early morning practices. In the final game of the summer season, Windham boys’ varsity beat Edward Little at home, 56-49, on Thursday, July 27 in a game that showcased their hard work and dedication.

Windham's Conor Janvrin dribbles past two Edward Little
opponents during a summer basketball game at Windham
High School on Thrursday, July 27.
PHOTO BY MATT PASCARELLA

For the first time, the boys’ high school basketball program invited Windham seventh and eighth graders to join them in a week of practices as they finished their summer season.

“We couldn’t wait for the summer to start, just because of the guys we had coming back,” said Windham varsity boys’ basketball coach Chad Pulkkinen. “Summer has been great, because we get to hang out with these guys, but also helping fuel their passion for the game. It’s very rewarding for me.”

During the final game of the summer season, Edward Little jumped to an early lead. Windham tied the game with the Red Eddies several times and the game was tied at 22 at the half.

At the start of the second half, Windham really increased their intensity and took the lead. Windham remained out in front and made it difficult for Edward Little to get this win.

Windham junior Creighty Dickson said they pushed the pace, finished at the rim and played fast pace on defense; it was a solid game.

When Pulkkinen opened practice up to seventh and eighth graders, he said he’s seen his players start to understand their roles as role models and that gives them a sense of how to hold themselves as players and athletes. It’s a win-win for both sides. It’s been very collaborative and powerful for the program.

“It’s been good we all work out together a lot,” said Windham junior Conor Janvrin. “We all worked together, everyone knows their role and plays a part in the team; I’m looking forward to the upcoming season [this winter].”

Windham sophomore AJ Moody, sunk 3 three-pointers during the Edward Little game, said this was the last summer with some of the seniors. He really wanted to show up for them and put everything on the line; he couldn’t ask for a better coaching staff. He likes teaching the upcoming high school players new things and he can’t wait to play with them.

The varsity players got to show the middle school players how they do things offensively and strategically. The overall comradery has been really fun. Pulkkinen enjoyed seeing his team as a great set of role models. It was fun for him to see varsity players giving back to the youth program.

“It was really fun to watch and play against a bunch of high-level players and being able to learn from them,” said Windham eighth grader Sean Lebel. “They showed me the pace that high school basketball is played at and is a very big step up from middle school. It was a great way for me to work on fundamentals and get up a lot of shots. It was nice to build relationships with a lot of the high schoolers too.”

Windham junior varsity and assistant varsity coach Geoff Grigsby said the commitment and dedication he’s seen on the court from players of all ages this summer really proves Windham is a basketball community on the rise. <

Windham Parks and Recreation’s summer track and field team showcases skills at state meet

Windham freshman Karl Longstreth receives
congratulations from Windham Parks and
Recreation track and field coach Katherine
Slomczynski after he became state champion
in javelin with a 120-foot throw during the
United States of America Track and Field
Meet at Cony High School in Augusta on Aug.
13. PHOTO BY MARINA LONGSTRETH

By Matt Pascarella 

The Windham Parks and Recreation summer track team competed in the Maine United States of America Track and Field (USATF) state meet at Cony High School in Augusta on Saturday, Aug. 13. Windham performed with distinction, sending a squad of 16 athletes from ages 8 to 15 to represent the town.

To participate in the state competition, athletes had to place in the top four at the qualifier meet.

The COVID-19 pandemic had temporarily halted the summer state meets for a while and Windham had not competed in one since 2019.

“The kids missed being able to do the meets the past few years, so they were excited to be back,” said Windham Parks and Recreation track and field coach Philip Jackson. “The kids liked being able to see their progress from meet to meet. The 13 to 14-year-old boys were a cohesive group. They were very supportive of each other and were good at pushing each other as well. I am especially proud of the sportsmanship of our athletes.”

At Augusta, Windham freshman Karl Longstreth was the boys’ javelin state champion with a throw of 36.62 meters – about 120 feet. He also placed second in the 100 meter, and third in the 200.

Many other Windham athletes also racked up exceptional performances in the state competition including:

· Windham freshman Meg Kingsley finished second in the 400, third in the javelin, fourth in the girls’ 100 and fifth in the long jump.

· Windham seventh-grader Peter Funk finished second in the boys’ shotput and fifth in the discus.

· Windham’s Josephine Sanborn placed third in the 9 to 10-year-old 800 race-walk.

· Windham’s relay team of freshmen Aaron Sanborn, Marek Slomczynski, Connor Witham, and Karl Longstreth finished in second place.

Windham’s Mason Bragdon finished third in the 13 to 14-year-old boys’ 3000 run and also competed in discus.

· Windham freshman Nick Verill finished third in the boys’ high jump.

· Windham freshman Connor Witham finished fifth in the boys’ javelin.

· Windham seventh-grader Renner Gerrity finished fifth in the boys’ 80-meter hurdles.

· Windham sixth-grader Jacoby Burton finished fifth in the boys’ triple jump.

“The whole Windham team worked so hard all summer putting all of our effort in every meet,” said Longstreth. “Every practice we try our hardest pushing our limits and making us stronger which made us faster and better for the state.”

Longstreth said he felt like a champion when he heard how far he threw the javelin before he became state champion.

He’s been working hard at track and field for seven years now, and that hard work has finally paid off.

According to Longstreth, he’s very proud of everything he accomplished during this year’s state meet in Augusta. <

WYSA’s Windham 2 team ends summer season with narrow loss to Freeport

Windham 2 team sophomore Preston Stretch heads across 
the pitch during a youth soccer game July 28 at Freeport.
PHOTO BY MATT PASCARELLA

By Matt Pascarella 

It was a defensive battle in the first half as Windham Youth Soccer Association’s Windham 2 team prevented opponent Freeport from scoring, but a second half goal was the difference as Windham 2 fell to Freeport 1-0 on the road on Thursday, July 28.

Windham offense was strong and had many shots at goal throughout the game against Freeport but was unable to capitalize.

Freeport narrowly found the back of the net early in the second half and despite a very strong effort by Windham, they were not able to tie or get ahead and lost by a single goal.

“We did good, we could’ve played better,” said Windham freshman Aidan Difiore. “Our defense was spacing out. We were getting through well; we just couldn’t finish.”

Difiore said passing in the midfield area, clearing the ball and spacing went really well. 

As soon as the game began Windham had a solid attempt with an early shot at goal. Windham worked hard and gave 100 percent the entire game.

Windham pressured Freeport and kept the ball almost exclusively in front of the Freeport goalie for the entire first half. Windham had many shots at goal that included a direct kick that hit the top bar of the goal.

The Windham defense prevented Freeport from scoring in the first half, ending in a 0-0 tie at intermission.

“We had more chances to score I feel,” said Windham Youth Soccer Association’s Windham 2 coach Mitchell Hodge. “I think just nerves and excitement and all of that flowing [led to] some split-second mistakes or miss hitting the ball or little things like that.”

Hodge said that it was a pretty positive game overall, which is what he’s looking for. He said the season has been good, he’s seen a lot of growth and excitement about the upcoming high school fall season.

Hodge said the team made some adjustments in the second half that worked really well, along with spacing and positioning with their mid-field and forwards.

In the second half, Freeport scored within the first minute of play.

Windham continued to work hard and hustled in the second half as they worked to score. The Eagles again had multiple shots at goal, even one that bounced off the goal’s side bar.

“I think we did good; it was just those final passes we got to capitalize more on,” said Windham freshman Camden Patin. “The final 15 minutes of that last half, we wanted it more than they did. It’s a tough loss, but I think we’ll be a good team coming up this year.”

Patin said he could see their improvement from the first game in the beginning of the summer season to this one with Freeport. He said communication and one-touch passes went well against Freeport. <

Eagles’ summer basketball camp great opportunity to make friends, learn skills

Windham varsity senior and volunteer JC Chouinard teaches
basketball skills to students during the Eagles' summer
basketball camp on Wednesday, July 27 at Windham
High School. PHOTO BY MATT PASCARELLA 

By Matt Pascarella

For as long as Windham varsity boys’ basketball coach Chad Pulkkinen can remember, Windham basketball has had a summer camp, where younger kids can learn the skills of the game as well as meet new people, who could one day be their teammates.

Pulkkinen has been running the camp for six years and next winter will begin his eighth year as the head boys’ basketball varsity coach. He’s had a tremendous response to his annual camp with almost 100 kids signing up.

Things are starting to come back to normal as far as kids’ camps go following the pandemic and Pulkkinen and his assistant coaches Geoff Grigsby and Noah Estey say that they were glad they could help the younger, aspiring players of the community out by hosting the K to 8 basketball camp at Windham High School during the last week of July.

“The No. 1 goal is to have fun,” said Pulkkinen. “It gives them an outlet to learn the game and have some fun.”

Every day of the camp there were themes like teammate, hustle, body language or coachability. Along with essential basketball skills, Pulkkinen and his coaches teach the kids the importance of being kind on the court and what it means to be a good teammate.

 

Basketball has given Pulkkinen a lot of life skills, so part of his goals for this camp is to teach life skills to the future group of varsity players.

“Overall basketball has been a tool for me to apply in all that I do,” said Pulkkinen. “Commitment, dedication, discipline, how to handle adversity, how to be a good teammate. It's shown me when you work hard at something and put the time in it pays off. You get what you put in.”

Players from freshmen to seniors volunteered their time and set a good example for the young athletes and participants appreciated the new skills they worked on at the camp.

“I’ve learned new ways to dribble and new ways to throw,” said Windham fifth-grader Kingston Mack.

Mack’s goal is to make over 1,000 shots in his lifetime.

Windham senior and varsity player JC Chouinard remembered attending this camp himself when he was much younger and how he looked up to high school varsity players.

“It’s pretty cool it’s come full circle now that I’m a senior here,” said Chouinard.

Chouinard has volunteered at the camp for the last four years and likes that it brings the community together. He likes seeing the younger kids learn the game.

Basketball has helped Chouinard out a lot in his life, so if he can use basketball to help another young athlete, that means a lot to him.

Chouinard said that his goal during the week was to have the kids remember the camp and the fun they had, skills they improved upon and new friends that they made.

Windham second-grader William Hanf had been working on making baskets and drills during the Eagles’ Basketball camp. He said he wanted to become better at playing basketball and has been having fun learning new skills and meeting new people.

“I just think it helps everybody come together and get to know each other. The camp shows you how to be a good teammate. And that really goes beyond the court in everyday life,” said Chouinard. <

Windham basketball falls short in games against Scarborough

By Matt Pascarella

The Windham varsity and junior varsity summer basketball teams walked off the court with losses at Scarborough on Wednesday, July 20, but both teams put in strong efforts.

Windham varsity senior Owen Combes rises toward the
hoop at Scarborough in a summer league basketball game
against the Red Storm on Wednesday, July 20. 
PHOTO BY MATT PASCARELLA 

The Windham varsity team had a close game to start, but Scarborough pulled ahead. Windham was able to come back within two points of tying the game in the second half, but Scarborough held them off and secured a 41-35 win.

Windham’s JV team took a lead away from Scarborough early. Windham was able to maintain that lead for the entire first half. In the second half, Scarborough turned the tables and got a 47-35 victory.

Varsity

“Guys were playing hard, playing pretty well on defense,” said Windham varsity boys’ basketball coach Chad Pulkkinen. “They’re a tight-knit group and it shows on the court; they’re pretty well connected as a team.”

Pulkkinen thought it was a close battle, but sometimes the ball just doesn’t go your way.

Windham took a small but early lead in the first half.

Scarborough was not far behind. Windham fought hard and worked to be first to the ball. At the half, Scarborough led 18-11.

The second half was a different story. Windham’s determination was there and as the clock wound down, the Eagles closed the gap. Windham freshman AJ Moody hit back-to-back three-pointers and

now Scarborough only had a two-point lead.

With two minutes left in the game, Windham was down by five. A short time later, Windham trailed by two points again.

Scarborough was able to expand their lead with less than 20 seconds on the clock.

“Our team did really good,” said Moody. “Our effort was there but we didn’t move the ball enough in the second half. Our defense wasn’t really collapsing as we wanted it to be, and Scarborough just had the better offense in the second half.”

Moody said pushing the ball in transition and getting back on transition defense and offense went well.

JV

It was a very close game early in the first half with only a couple points separating the teams. Windham pulled away. Windham had a significant lead at the half when they were up 24-14.

“We did a really good job in transition defense,” said Windham sophomore Braycen Freese who hit two three-pointers during the game. “I think we played better defense than we usually do.”

Freese said Windham struggled to find a way to get past Scarborough’s zone defense in the second half, which resulted in Scarborough taking the lead. Freese said the season has been solid and they’ve built a good foundation for the winter.

In the second half, Scarborough caught up. Windham tied the game at 27.

Scarborough pulled ahead, but a three-pointer and Windham trailed 33-32.

Unfortunately, Scarborough overtook the game and expanded their lead by 10.

“Against Scarborough’s man defense Windham did a good job of running their offense and getting good shots,” said Windham JV boys basketball coach Geoff Grigsby. “Defensively in the first half there was a ton of effort; guys did a great job of talking and identifying getting back.”

Grigsby said Windham got outworked in the second half. When Scarborough switched to zone defense it became harder for Windham, especially in the last 10 minutes. Windham worked hard but struggled to communicate. <

Windham girls’ soccer play strong games against Scarborough

By Matt Pascarella

Windham’s girls’ varsity and junior varsity summer soccer teams played two very close games against Scarborough at Windham on Monday, July 25.

Windham varsity senior Abbey Thornton stays ahead of her
Scarborough opponent in a summer soccer game on Monday,
July 25 at Windham. PHOTO BY MATT PASCARELLA

The girls’ varsity team was down 2-0 at halftime and came back in the second half to put three goals between the posts. Unfortunately, Scarborough stayed ahead to win 4-3.

Windham’s JV team was tied at 1-1 at the half and came back to outscore the Red Storm and took home a 3-2 victory.

Varsity

Windham was a little slow to start in the first half, but they would find their momentum later on. Scarborough scored twice early in the game.

Windham had multiple shots at goal and was aggressive during parts of the half but not able to score.

The Windham defense stopped a couple scoring opportunities for Scarborough who led 2-0 at the half.

Yet Windham continued to take shots at goal in the second half. Windham sophomore Stella Jarvais sent the ball in the net.

Later in the game, Windham senior Abbey Thornton scored off a corner kick from Windham senior Liz Levesque.

Thornton said the team had a good connection during the game; they are close, and communication

went well. Windham’s goal in the second half was to get out there and work harder to go after the win.

Windham defense kept Scarborough’s score low. Although the Red Storm did score twice in the second half, Windham contended when sophomore Jaelyn Poitras scored later in the game.

“We connected a little bit more in the middle,” said Windham varsity girls’ soccer coach Deb Lebel. “We started going to the ball better at times; some of the upperclassmen really stepped up and decided they were going to take over.”

Lebel said the summer season shows where the team might need work in a fun relaxed manner.

JV

Windham pressured early but Scarborough scored. Then Windham freshman Sydney Broadbent found the back of the net.

Windham continued to move the ball well. They took several shots at goal. Windham had solid defense and communication.

The game was tied at one at the half.

Windham JV girls’ soccer coach Lisa Anderson said communication and teamwork were key in this

game because they had to play a hard defense. They had leadership from goalie to sweeper to stopper.

Anderson said the season has gone very well. A lot of the players have played together over the years, and this puts them in a good spot for the upcoming fall season.

In the second half, Windham didn’t let a momentary downpour stop their efforts. Windham kept the pressure up until the final whistle.

Scarborough scored.

Broadbent scored again, assisted by freshman Brianna Duarte.

“We played our hardest and made sure to pass-defeat instead of playing straight up the field,” said Broadbent. “We all wanted to win so we put our effort into it.”

Broadbent said passing and communication were big factors in Windham beating Scarborough.

Later on, Windham freshman Neve Ledbetter got the ball by the goalie to send Windham past the Red Storm. <

Tales from the Outdoors: Summer Doldrums

By Bob Chapin

This is the time of the year that is considered the lazy time. The weather is balmy (when it is not raining), the rental places around the lake are doing a brisk business, area farmers’ markets are chock full of fresh offerings from the garden and the area ice cream parlors all have long lines. The lake waters have warmed up enough that swimmers and tubers are active most of the daylight hours. Life is good. 

For the outdoors men and women this is the time when food plots need caring for, trail cameras can identify what and who is moving about your hunting property, and relations with landowners can be massaged so you have a place to hunt once the seasons resume.

For those who hunt from tree stands this is the time to check the safety of and the shooting lanes from your favorite stands and a time to install new ones as the deer movement patterns may have changed. Land use near your stands may also have changed necessitating a stand movement.

For those of you fortunate enough to have been chosen during the Moose Lottery, now is the time to line up your recovery crew, find lodging and food sources, and a guide, should you feel the need for one. Most of the prime areas for moose are fairly remote and there is not an abundance of lodges and camps up in the unincorporated townships so reserve yours early.

Prices will probably surprise you a bit but remember in some of these areas hunting is the primary source of revenue for those who live there. You will probably only do this once in your life and when the last piece of delicious meat is safely stored away in a cooler you will agree that it was money well spent.

These summer evenings are a great time to take kids fishing. The weather is great, the fish are biting, the insects are not usually bothersome out on the water, and we are blessed here in Maine with an abundance of choices of where and what to fish for.  Fishing can be as simple as a cane pole, a worm, and a hook fished from the shore.

You don’t need a $50,000 bass boat decked out in $10,000 in electronics to catch fish. Some of the most enjoyable and productive fishing I have done has been from a 14’ aluminum boat with a 10-horsepower outboard. The beauty of a boat or a kayak or canoe is that it can get you to more of the fishing water on a lake or pond.

We have a tremendous variety of fish to fish for and most are present in our local lakes and ponds.

For example, I live on Thomas Pond and at any given time of year, except for the transitions to hard water (ice) I can go out my backyard and fish. This 556-acre lake has landlocked salmon, largemouth and small mouth bass, white perch which are particularly active right now, Sunnys, yellow perch, cusk, brook trout, pickerel and eels. I am told there are rainbow trout in the pond but in 13 years I have yet to catch one, so I don’t say we have them.

Sebago Lake is right next door, and I can pull my boat and be fishing on Sebago in about a half hour. The attraction there is larger fish, both salmon and the Lake Trout or Togue. The lake has had its ups and downs as a fishing lake and the old timers tell me it is in a down cycle right now.

It used to be a great lake for salmon, in fact, the town of Raymond prides itself as “Home of the Land Locked Salmon.” Reading recent history books available at area variety and gift shops you will note that this area was largely developed as a fishing destination where sports from New York city and places in Massachusetts, Connecticut, and New Jersey used to take a train north then transition to horse drawn wagons to get to sporting camps all around the lake.

The pictures confirm that there were more, and larger salmon easily caught. Lakes, and the fish that are in them, change over time due to a host of factors. Fishing pressure introduced or non-native fish such as pike, bass, and Togue, as well as forage fish such as smelt and alewives affect the fishing.

Uses of more water to a growing Portland population, the stocking of Togue by IF & W, the stocking of saltwater variants of smelt as well as relocating smelt as a food source from other lakes within Maine and the “bucket biologists” that have introduced bass and pike have all had an impact on the fish we see today. Still, it is a tremendous resource to have so close. You should get out and try it! <

Varsity and junior varsity basketball keep Bonny Eagle from getting win

Windham High sophomore Blake McPherson takes a shot
in a varsity summer basketball game against Bonny Eagle
on Monday, July 19 at Windham High School. Windham
defeated the Scots 59-54. PHOTO BY MATT PASCARELLA  

By Matt Pascarella

Windham High School’s varsity and junior varsity basketball teams have been practicing and preparing for their regular season during the summer basketball season.

Both the varsity and junior varsity teams got out ahead of Bonny Eagle during summer scrimmage games on Monday, July 19 at Windham High School and then held onto those leads throughout their games. Windham’s varsity team beat the Scots, 59-54, while JV posted a 42-39 win.

Varsity

The game was close to start but Windham pulled away as senior Will Mannette sunk several three-pointers in the first half. The team was quick to get several rebounds, which helped Windham build and sustain their lead. As the half wound down, Bonny Eagle couldn’t catch Windham and the Eagles led 32-27 at intermission.

Windham’s offense and defense were strong. At the start of the second half, Bonny Eagle tied the game at 34. The Eagles moved the ball nicely and Windham moved back into the lead. The Scots were not able to hold any kind of lead for long. With a little over a minute left in play, Windham was up by four points. Once the game was over, Windham walked off the court with a "W."

Windham senior Will Ledbetter said he thought the varsity team played solid team basketball, saying that it was a fun game where they all passed the ball around and got open looks. Ledbetter said it was evident how several players on the team helped contribute to getting that momentum going that would eventually lead to the win.

“The guys played with a lot of effort; they’re starting to trust each other as a team,” said Windham varsity Coach Chad Pulkkinen. “These guys are doing a great job working on what we need to do ... to reach the potential they want to reach in the regular season.”

Junior Varsity

In the first half, Bonny Eagle jumped to an early lead, but it was short-lived. While the game remained close, Windham took the 22-16 lead after the first half.

In the second half, Windham maintained their lead, but Bonny Eagle wasn’t far behind and worked hard to close the gap. Ultimately they could not and lost by three points.

Windham sophomore Noah Mains said working together as a team coupled with sharp passing led to the JV win.

One minute was left in play and Bonny Eagle had an opportunity to tie the game. Windham gained possession and prevented the Scots from the possibility of tying the game. Windham was able to hold on to the lead as the clock ran out.

“Bonny Eagle is a really tough team; they’re physically tough and mentally tough. They make you work for everything,” said Windham JV Coach Geoff Grigsby. “As the game went along (Windham) slowed down and began to work on the few things we’ve tried to work on this summer.” <

Windham’s Summer Rec Track and Field readies emerging athletes for future competition

Paris Knight walks on air while competing
in the long jump during a Windham
Parks and Recreation Summer Rec
Track Meet.
PHOTO BY REBECCA VERSLUIS

By Matt Pascarella

Windham Parks and Recreation Summer track program looked a little different this year. But their goal was the same: to teach kids the basics and get them interested and excited about track and field. Athletes were given the opportunity to develop their skills in running as well as some field events (javelin, shot put, long jump and discus).

Summer track is associated with the USA Track and Field (USATF) organization. Although athletes, ages 5 to 14 could not compete against other towns, USATF held a virtual track meet during the summer. USATF’s virtual track meet was a competition against athletes on the Windham team.

Coaches got times and distances from events and those scores were sent to USATF to rank and score them against other towns.

Here are some highlights from Windham’s virtual meet:

Andrew Young took first place in the 13/14 year old 400-meter race, the 800, and the 1500. Jalen Stephens won the 9/10 boy's shot put. Karl Longstreth won the 11/12 boy's shot put. Marek Slomczynski won the 11/12 boy's discus and the 11/12 boy's javelin.

Naia Varney won the eight and under girl's long jump. Hanna Miele won the 9/10 girl's long jump. Noah Saucier won the 11/12 boy's long jump. Caitlyn Marsh won the 13/14 girl's javelin and the 13/14 girl’s 400. Mason Bragdon won the 11/12 boy's 3000. Kayo Longstreth won the eight and under boy's javelin throw.

Marin Miele won the 8 and under girls race/walk. Paris Knight won the 11/12 boy's race/walk.

Zach Noonan won the 13/14 boy's 100. Taylor Lucas won the 9/10 girl's 1500 and the 800. Dylan Crockett won the boy's 11/12 200 and Renner Gerrity won the 9/10 boy's long jump.

Windham High graduate and Parks and Recreation coach Hannah Langstaff coached the program this year and last year and has participated in Windham’s Summer Parks and Recreation track since she was 5.

“I still remember the coaches that were there and how much of an impact they had on me, so I just hope that I can do that for these kids. I also hope that the summer track program gets kids to continue track into middle school and high school to grow those programs as well.”

She said that her favorite part about being a coach is definitely seeing the kids get excited to run or do field events.

“It’s really awesome to see them so invested in the sport.”

Windham Parks and Recreation made sure participants were being as safe as possible in response to COVID-19 pandemic.

“It took a lot of careful planning for each part of practice to make sure social distancing and other

guidelines were being followed,” said coach Phil Jackson.

When athletes arrived, their temperature was taken, and they used hand sanitizer.

Each coach worked with a small group of athletes so being socially distant was easier. Throwing implements were sanitized after each practice and not shared between athletes.

“We had to wear masks, sanitize, and stay social distanced, although after the first practice I think we had a pretty good system down. Coach Jackson used cones to separate the kids whenever they were not running, so at field events or during stretches,” said Langstaff.

They had close to 80 athletes participate this summer.

“Even during the pandemic, our numbers were still higher than last year. I think given that so many sporting events were cancelled this spring and summer, there was an increased interest for children to be involved in something that allowed for socializing and physical activity,” said Jackson. <

Softball All-Stars leave it all on the field

Addison Caiazzo

By Matt Pascarella

This series started with twelve teams and Windham was one of the final two. In this double elimination tournament, the 9- and 10-year-old softball all-stars had lost one game. On Tuesday, July 9 in a tied game against South Portland, in the bottom of the ninth inning, Windham was able to hold off South Portland to win 5-4.

The Lady Eagles beat Westbrook 7-2 in the seventh inning to force a winner-take-all game for the championship. Windham played Westbrook at the South Portland Little League field on Monday, July 15^th.

The first inning the teams were evenly matched to start, with strong defense on Windham’s part. The Lady Eagles had quick hands and made smart plays to nab runners at first base. They were scoreless after one inning. Then scoreless after two innings.

In the bottom of the third, Westbrook managed to score a run, and Windham ended that inning with multiple Westbrook runners on base.

In the top of the fourth, Sarah Smyth, #16, got a triple and then Addison Caiazzo, #15, got a base hit; Smyth scored. Caiazzo stole her way to third and scored on a passed ball. 2-1, Windham.

Westbrook scored several runs in the bottom of the fourth and took a 6-2 lead.

The girls left it all on the field but weren’t able to catch Westbrook.

“The kids were fantastic,” replied coach Nick Caiazzo. “Throwing all kinds of different concepts at them this season. There was a lot of stuff that might have been uncomfortable for them, but they did not second guess or hesitate. They always did what the coaches asked and I’m proud of them. 

They’re a good group of kids. They are resilient kids; they try hard and that’s all that matters.”

Congratulations to Addison Caiazzo, Evelyn Anderson, Kiley Card, Cami Casserly, Ashley Cloutier, Liliana Gallagher, Lacie Higgins, Eliana Kostopolous, Neve Ledbetter, Kaylee Napolitano, Lucy Rich and Sarah Smyth on a fantastic all-star season.

The whole town is very proud and look forward to seeing you play in the future!

Softball wallop Hermon to become state champs

By Matt Pascarella

In a summer season and a tournament that showcased nothing but talent in the eleven and twelve-year-old girls that played on Windham’s all-star team, it all came down to this game. Saturday, July 13^th the team travelled to Glenburn to take on Hermon in the game to crown the Maine state softball champions.

(L to R): Back row - coaches: Shayne Bryant, Jason McLeod, Kregg Jarvais; Back row: Jaydn Kimball, Stella Jarvais, Kennedy Kimball, Hannah Lee, Lydia Marden, Sierra Sparrow; Front row: Oakley McLeod, Nola Bryant, Addison Leger, Bri Duarte, Caitlyn Marsh, Chloe Edwards, Alyssa Conley

Windham came out swinging...literally. Chloe Edwards, #14, walked and stole second, then third. Stella Jarvais, #9, got a base hit and stole her way to third. Edwards scored. Kennedy Kimball, #34, walked and immediately stole second; Jarvais stole home. Jaydn Kimball, #28, sent the ball into the outfield for a double. K. Kimball scored. Oakley McLeod, #2, walked; Hannah Lee, #10, bunted and the bases were loaded.

Caitlyn Marsh, #42, singled to left field. J. Kimball and McLeod scored. Bri Duarte, #3, bunted and took first. Edwards doubled to left field and brought in Lee and Marsh. Jarvais doubled to center and Edwards scored. K. Kimball singled and brought in Jarvais. After one inning, Windham led 9-0.

The bottom of the first brought four batters to the plate and sent three away, leaving a runner on base at the end of the inning.

The Lady Eagles kept the hits coming in the second. Lydia Marden, #11, walked. Then, Addison Leger, #99, was hit by a pitch. Pinch runner Alyssa Conley, #26, in for Leger. Edwards reached first on a passed ball/dropped third strike. Conley and Marden both scored. Jarvais singled to left field and brought in Edwards.

Windham brought three batters to the plate and sent three batters away in the bottom of the second.

There was no stopping Windham in the top of the third. Lee walked. Conley singled, Marsh got a base hit. Lee scored. Conley scored on a passed ball. Duarte singled and brought home Marsh.

Two strikeouts a walk and another strikeout and the Lady Eagles are undefeated and Maine state champions!

Final 15-0

“I almost wanted them to slow down and enjoy the moment, but they are so focused,” commented coach Kregg Jarvais. “I think that they really care for each other and they wanted to do it for themselves. The best thing about this is just being a part of it; trying to steer them in a direction that is positive, they have a good experience, and they have fun.”

The team travels to Bristol, Connecticut to play their first game of the Regional Tournament of the Little League World Series on Saturday, June 20.

Good luck ladies!

Softball All-Star beat South Portland in true definition of barn burner

Sarah Smyth

By Matt Pascarella

The nine and ten-year-old softball all-star team travelled on Tuesday, July 9^th to play South Portland in a tournament game to determine who will play Westbrook for the District 6 championship.

Windham started strong when Cami Casserly, #8, singled in the first and stole her way to third. She stole home shortly after. 1-0 Windham.

South Portland answered back and scored in the bottom of the first tying the game at one.

Windham’s strong defense stopped several runners in scoring positions.

In the fifth inning, South Portland managed to get a run in and take the lead, 2-1.

In the sixth, Casserly bunted and got on base. She scored to tie the game at two and forced the bottom of the sixth inning.

Windham’s defense stayed solid as they brought three South Portland players to the plate in the bottom of the sixth and sent three South Portland players back to the dugout.

The game headed into extra innings and tension was palpable. The seventh inning passed and still the score remained tied.

At the start of the eighth inning, a runner was placed on second base. Windham’s defense did a stellar job and held South Portland’s runner at second; eventually they threw that runner out at third. Windham ended the inning with South Portland runners on second and third.

As tensions rose with stomachs knotted, the game headed into the ninth inning. Eliana Kostopolous, #5, was placed at second. Casserly got a base hit and Kostopolous advanced to third. Sarah Smyth, #16, got a single on a bunt. Bases loaded. Addison Caiazzo, #15, got a base hit and Kostopolous scored. 3-2, Windham.

But the Lady Eagles weren’t done. Casserly advanced to third. Smyth was at second. Casserly stole home and Smyth stole third. Caiazzo stole second. Smyth stole home. Caiazzo made it to third. 5-2, Windham.

Bottom of the ninth. A runner on second – this reporter is tense just reliving the details. South Portland scored. Then the first out, then the second out. South Portland scored again. The tying run was on second. Strike one. Strike two. One strike away...and STRIKE THREE!

WINDHAM WINS!!! Final: 5-4.

“The kids showed great perseverance; they’re tough kids,” commented coach Nick Caiazzo. “It doesn’t matter what happened to them in the game previous, they do a really good job. They stayed positive, they rooted for each other, pulled for each other, which is really, really cool to see. They put in a lot of great time, energy and effort.”

Safety tips for outdoor enthusiasts this summer

When participating in water sports like rafting, adults and children alike should wear flotation devices at all times. 

Outdoor enthusiasts typically cannot wait to get outside and make the most of a beautiful day. But in their haste to enjoy the great outdoors, men and women can easily overlook safety precautions that protect them from potential hazards.

Though it's easy to get excited about a sunny day, it's important for outdoor enthusiasts to take safety seriously. No matter your activity, always bring adequate sunscreen to protect your skin from the sun, and remember to bring enough water to stay hydrated throughout the day. In addition to packing sunscreen and water, outdoor enthusiasts can employ various additional safety methods depending on which activity they choose to enjoy.

Cycling

Cyclists must always be on alert for those with whom they are sharing the road. While many motorists respect cyclists, there are some who see cyclists as a nuisance, and such motorists may drive recklessly around cyclists in an attempt to scare them off the road. Cyclists are oftentimes at the mercy of motorists, so it pays to stay as attentive as possible. Never listen to an MP3 player or another music player while riding a bike. Such a distraction could prove deadly if it takes your attention away from the road. Alertness is important when cycling, as are the following precautionary measures:

* Always wear a helmet and reflective clothing that makes it easy for motorists to see you.

* Obey the traffic laws.

* Always ride with traffic.

* Inspect your bicycle and address any mechanical issues before each ride.

Hiking

When the weather permits, few activities combine the benefits of physical activity with the aesthetic appeal of nature as well as hiking does. Hikers should never hike on poorly developed trails or trails that are too difficult for them to handle, and they should have at least a basic understanding of the symptoms of altitude sickness. Always share your route with friends or family members before embarking on a hiking trip. This protects you if you should get lost or injured and you need a rescue team to find you. Hikers should also pack the following supplies before hitting the trails:

* Compass

* Flashlight and extra batteries

* Whistle and signal mirror

* Map of the park that includes the trails you plan to hike

* Waterproof matches

* First aid kit

* Blanket

Inline skating and skateboarding

Inline skating and skateboarding are popular activities for adults and children alike. But even though you may associate such activities with your childhood, that does not mean the risk of injury is insignificant. In fact, even seasoned skateboarders and veteran inline skaters have suffered broken bones or head injuries while skateboarding or skating. Proper attire is essential for skaters and skateboarders hoping to prevent injury, so be sure to wear the following gear the next time you hit the half-pipe or go skating by the boardwalk:

* Helmet

* Knee pads

* Wrist guards

* Elbow pads

Water sports

Water attracts the sun, so it's imperative that anyone planning to spend ample time on or around the water take steps to protect their skin. Wear appropriate clothing and apply sunscreen with a minimum sun protection factor of 15.

Never take to the water after you have consumed alcohol. Alcohol can dull your senses, making you less likely to recognize a dangerous situation should one present itself.

If you plan on entering the water, always enter feet first and do your best to avoid swimming alone. When you employ the buddy system while swimming, you are ensuring there is someone there to help you should you begin to struggle or to alert lifeguards or other safety personnel should something go awry.

If you to plan to fish on a boat, let your loved ones staying behind on land know where you plan to fish so they can share this information with authorities if your boat has problems or you don't return on time. While on the boat, always wear a flotation device and make sure the boat is not running as you board and dismount.

The great outdoors can be enjoyed throughout the year. But outdoor enthusiasts will have a much better time if they take the necessary steps to reduce their risk of injury. EL136236