• CLASS A

BIDDEFORD

Coach: Brian Heal, second year

Last year: 7-11

Returning starters: 3

Impact players: Heather Fecteau, sr., G/F; Allison Roy, sr., G; Bryanna Michaud, sr., G; Carissa Gelinas, fr., PG; Bailey Cote, soph., C

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Outlook: The Tigers will be their usual scrappy selves on defense, trying to dictate the tempo. Offensively they need to develop some scorers with the graduation of Keila Grigware. Fecteau can play anywhere and will be counted on to do just about everything. A lot may depend on the development of young stars Gelinas and Cote, who’s coming back from a broken foot that sidelined her last year. They’ll help the Tigers keep an up-tempo game, looking to create some transition offense. 

BONNY EAGLE

Coach: Sue Rondeau, sixth year

Last year: 8-12, lost in Western A quarterfinals

Returning starters: 3

Impact players: Alicia Hoyt, sr., C; Jessica MacDonald, sr., G; Shannon Sanborn, jr., F; Samantha Campobasso, jr., G; Olivia Dalphonse, fr., PG; Danielle Day, sr., G; Jordan Ray, jr., G; Cassidy Mitchell, jr., G

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Outlook: Twelve players return from last year, making the Scots one of the most experienced teams in the SMAA. Hoyt and MacDonald have been the top two scorers the last two seasons, and also bring intensity to the defensive end. There is plenty of depth, obviously, and the addition of the freshman Dalphonse fills a hole. She is expected to be one of the better first-year players in the league. 

BRUNSWICK

Coach: Sam Farrell, third year

Last year: 12-7, lost in Eastern A quarterfinals

Returning starters: 1

Impact players: Becky Champagne, sr., G; Liz Faulkner, sr., G; Melanie Bryant, sr., F

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Outlook: Not only did the Dragons take a hit from graduation, but one player transferred and another didn’t come out. This will be a young team. Faulkner should provide great inside play and leadership. Look for the Dragons to be as disruptive as they can be on defense and push the ball offensively to try to create mismatches. 

CHEVERUS

Coach: Richie Ashley, sixth year

Last year: 14-5, lost in Western A quarterfinals

Returning starters: 4

Impact players: Alexandra Palazzi-Leahy, sr., G/F; Brooke Flaherty, jr., F/C; Kylie Libby, jr., F; Mikayla Mayberry, jr., PG; Georgia Ford, soph., G; Abby Maker, soph., G/F; Allie Thomas, sr., F

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Outlook: The Stags look to be one of the top challengers to McAuley in the SMAA with experience, size and depth. Palazzi-Leahy is one of the top perimeter players in the conference. Flaherty and Libby provide great inside presence. Ashley has moved some of his players around to compensate for roster losses (such as Morgan Cahill returning to Yarmouth). If the Stags adjust to their new roles quickly, they will be tough to beat. They’ll push the ball and harass teams defensively all over the court. 

DEERING

Coach: Mike Murphy, fourth year

Last year: 19-2, lost in Western A final

Returning starters: 3

Impact players: Ella Ramonas, sr. F; Marissa MacMillan, jr., C; Chelsea Saucier, jr., PG; Keneisha DiRamio, jr., G; Emily Cole, sr., G; LeeAnn Downs, soph., G; Katryna Gilson, sr., F

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Outlook: The Rams have a lot of points and leadership to replace, but have the talent to be one of the better teams in the SMAA. Ramonas is an under-rated player who does a lot to help the team. This year she needs to score more. MacMillan, at 6-4, is a force at the defensive end. If her offensive game comes around, she’ll be one of the top inside threats around. This is a team that can play any style and could make another long run into the tournament. 

GORHAM

Coach: Laughn Berthiaume, fifth year

Last year: 15-5, lost in Western A semifinals

Returning starters: 2

Impact players: Kiersten Turner, sr., PG; Kristin Ross, jr., G/F; Jessica Rexrode, soph., G

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Outlook: It will be a different type of year for Gorham without the explosive Mia Rapolla scoring points in chunks. But the Rams certainly have the ability to contend. Turner returns after missing last year with an ankle injury and is an exceptional performer. As always, the Rams will play an aggressive defense, looking to fuel their offense with turnovers and transition points. If the younger players develop quickly, this is another tourney contender. 

KENNEBUNK

Coach: Rob Sullivan, 16th year

Last year: 0-18

Returning starters: 3

Impact players: Maddie Kasprzak, sr., G/F; Janelle Bourchard, sr., F; Alissa Fallon, sr., G; Allie Bush, sr., G; Jennifer Davis, sr., F; Samantha Carey, jr., C

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Outlook: Sullivan is looking to get the program, with just two wins the last three years, back on track. What he likes about this group is its mental toughness and willingness to work hard. With eight seniors, the Rams should get some nice leadership. He’s hoping the younger players feed off the older players and improve as the season progresses. 

MARSHWOOD

Coach: Lee Petrie, eighth year

Last year: 8-10

Returning starters: 4

Impact players: Jorden Mitchell, sr., F; Aubrey Folger, sr., G; Ali Bartlett, sr., PG; Tatum Schladenhauffen, sr., F; Nicole Lachance, sr., F

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Outlook: The Hawks bear close watching this year. This is a deep, experienced, talented team that could create a lot of havoc with its full-court pressure defense, paced by Folger, who was third in the SMAA in steals (3.9). They go to the boards strong and also can take the ball outside. The Hawks have several players who will be match-up problems. Look for them to run at a top spot for the tournament. 

MASSABESIC

Coach: Holly Brassard, first year

Last year: 7-11

Returning starters: 3

Impact players: Morgan Reny, sr., G/F; Emily Schatz, sr., C; Holly Ledoux, sr., G; Christina Fetter, sr., F; Mickey McConihe, sr., G; Stephanie Guay, sr., G

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Outlook: Brassard, a former head coach at Wells, likes what she sees in her new club. The Mustangs have seven seniors who have been on the outside the last couple of years and hope to get back into the tournament. They’re not tall, but very athletic and quick, which should work well in Brassard’s running tempo. 

MCAULEY

Coach: Bill Goodman, first year

Last year: 20-2, won state championship

Returning starters: 3

Impact players: Alexa Coulombe, sr., C; Allie Clement, soph., PG; Sadie DiPierro, sr., G; Olivia Smith, soph., F; Molly Mack, jr., F; Victoria Lux, fr., F

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Outlook: The defending state champs are ready to do it again. And they have the talent to accomplish a back-to-back feat. The 6-2 Coulombe, heading to Boston College after high school, and Clement present perhaps the top 1-2 punch in the state. Both play great defense and can do almost anything on offense. Smith, a 6-3 transfer from Yarmouth, is a great young talent who allows Coulombe to play on the perimeter, where she can knock down a 3. The Lions have experience, height, talent and a desire to repeat. 

MT. ARARAT

Coach: Kelly LaFountain, 12th year

Last year: 9-10, lost in Eastern A quarterfinals

Returning starters: NA

Impact players: Molly Estes, sr., F; Leah Hitchcock, sr., F; Kristy Willey, jr., G/F; Chelsea Crawford, jr., G; Mallory Nelson, jr., F; Micaela Mitchel, jr., G/F; Caitlin LaFountain, soph., G/F

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Outlook: The Eagles have a lot of versatile, interchangeable players who can create matchup problems. They’re not tall — Hitchcock is the tallest at about 5-11 — but can all handle the ball. Look for Mt. Ararat to push the ball and challenge teams full-court. Defense will be the team’s strength. If the Eagles find some consistent scorers, they could be a force in Eastern A. 

NOBLE

Coach: John Coffin, third year

Last year: 2-16

Returning starters: 2

Impact players: Brittany Racicot, sr., F; Chandler Waterman, jr., PG; Jacklyn Colwell, sr., F/C; Molly Prichett, jr., F/C; Amber Kelly, soph., G; Katie Taylor, fr., G; Savannah Woodcock, jr., G

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Outlook: The Knights return their top two scorers from a year ago in Waterman, who’s moving to the point from the wing, and Racicot. They also have some nice size in Colwell and Prichett, both about 6-foot. But they are still relatively inexperienced and will rely greatly on their perimeter game to get points. If they can control the boards, they should be competitive. 

PORTLAND

Coach: Jan Veinot, fifth year

Last year: 5-13

Returning starters: 1

Impact players: Nyaliep Deng, sr., F; Angie Reali, sr., G; Kristina Brown, sr., PG; Nyador Nguany, sr., G/F

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Outlook: The Bulldogs look to rebound from last year’s disappointing record. And they have some experience. The team is primarily seniors and juniors, many of whom played significant minutes off the bench last year. Deng could be one of the more improved players in the SMAA. Look for the Bulldogs to run and challenge teams defensively. 

SANFORD

Coach: Kristy Parent, 11th year

Last year: 15-5, lost in Western A semifinals

Returning starters: 1

Impact players: Heather LeBlanc, jr., C; Maria Veino, sr., C/F; Sam Adams, jr., F; Taylor Littlefield, jr., G; Janelle Cannon, jr., F; Morgan Fogg, soph., PG

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Outlook: The Redskins lost a lot from last year’s playoff team but still possess enough talent to contend for a tournament berth. Parent is going to have to find some scorers and someone to help the 6-1 LeBlanc inside. Sanford’s defense is always tenacious, which will keep it in games. If the talented juniors come through as expected, the Redskins will find themselves among the league leaders. 

SCARBOROUGH

Coach: Tom Maines, first year

Last year: 6-12

Returning starters: NA

Impact players: Brittany Bona, sr., C; Carly Rogers, sr., F; Taylor LeBorgne, jr., PG; Mary Redmond, jr., G/F; Maria Philbrook, jr., PG; Courtney Alofs, jr., F; Marissa O’Toole, jr., F; Alisha Starbird, soph., G; Ashley Briggs, fr., F/G

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Outlook: The Red Storm should help make Maines’ return to coaching a successful one. They are extremely quick, which should allow them to press and run, a style favored by Maines. Bona, at 6-3, and Rogers, at 5-11, give Scarborough a strong inside presence. Rogers is returning from an injury that forced her to miss most of last year. There’s also some good young talent on this squad, which bears watching. 

SOUTH PORTLAND

Coach: Mike Giordano, 16th year

Last year: 11-8, lost in Western A quarterfinals

Returning starters: 2

Impact players: Danica Gleason, jr., PG; Jillian Legere, sr., C; Brianna Maloney, soph., C/F; Libby Grant, sr., G/F; Logan Neal, sr., G; Emily Gray, jr., F

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Outlook: The Red Riots have some established players returning at key positions. But they need to develop a consistent scorer along the way. Defensively, they’re going to be aggressive and fundamentally sound. Legere and Maloney provide inside skills while Gleason should be one of the better point guards in the SMAA. 

THORNTON ACADEMY

Coach: Eric Marston, second year

Last year: 8-11, lost in Western A prelim

Returning starters: 3

Impact players: Meghan Agger, sr., F/G; Olivia Shaw, soph., C; Jordan Agger, soph., G; Tori Lands, jr., F; Lauren Leskowsky, soph., F/C; Katie McCrum, fr., G

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Outlook: The Trojans suffered a blow with sophomore point guard Hannah Murphy’s preseason knee injury. They’ll need to replace her leadership, but the Trojans have a nice mix of experienced and younger players. Shaw could be one of the best young inside players in the SMAA while the Agger sisters can carry a team offensively. There is potential but it has to all come together for the Trojans to compete. 

WESTBROOK

Coach: Chris Aube, first year

Last year: 6-12

Returning starters: NA

Impact players: Paige Baldwin, soph., C; Megan Niehoff, sr., F; Jessica Harris, sr., PG; Kayla Winton, sr., F; Ashlee Richards, jr., G/F; Emily Blackmore, jr., C

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Outlook: Aube returns to coach in his hometown. He graduated from Westbrook in 1989. He inherits a program trying to get back to the top of the SMAA. He has some nice veteran leaders, and also will rely on freshmen Marissa Martel, Amber Richards and Lexi Redmond to infuse some energy. An interesting blend of talent that could be much better later in the season. 

WINDHAM

Coach: Jessie Cummings, fifth year

Last year: 11-8, lost in Western A quarterfinals

Returning starters: 4

Impact players: Meghan Gribbin, sr., PG; Stephanie Frost, sr., G; Bebe Butts, sr., G; Lonnie Staten, soph., F; Sam Frost, soph., PG; Diandra Berthiaumne, sr., F; MacKenzie Cummings, sr., G

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Outlook: The Eagles should be one of the most interesting teams to watch this year in the SMAA. They have great senior leadership, starting with returning All-State point guard Gribbin. They’ll play at a little faster pace than in the past, looking to take advantage of their talented guards. They shoot 3-pointers well and look to play an in-your-face defense. They should be among the SMAA’s best teams.

• CLASS B

CAMDEN HILLS

Coach: Marty Messer, second year

Last year: 9-9

Returning starters: 4

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Impact players: Jordan Knowlton, jr., F; Laura Johanson, sr., C; Taylor Porter, sr., G

Outlook: Camden Hills just missed the playoffs last year. This year it should get in. While two players transferred and two others did not return, Camden Hills still has plenty of experience and talent. Knowlton averaged 23 points and 13 rebounds last year, and is a strong inside threat. If she can get some help, Camden Hills will be tough to beat. The defense will be solid, as usual. Look for a nice run this year. 

CAPE ELIZABETH

Coach: Chris Roberts, fifth year

Last year: 11-8, lost in Western B quarterfinals

Returning starters: 4

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Impact players: Kayla Raftice, sr., F; Marlo Dell’Aquila, jr., G; Kate Miklavic, soph., PG

Outlook: This is a young squad with seven sophomores. Raftice will be the leader, not just statistically but emotionally. The Capers will look to push the ball offensively but a key will be their defense. Roberts hopes her half-court defense can limit teams to one shot, allowing the Capers to get into their running offense. They should improve as the season progresses. 

FALMOUTH

Coach: Mari Warner, second year

Last year: 9-9

Returning starters: 2

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Impact players: Jackie Doyle, sr., G; Anna Hickey, jr., F; Laney Evers, sr., G; Maddie Inlow, jr., G; Nicole Rogers, sr., F; Ashley Burton, sr., G; Morgan Larrabee, sr., G; Ally Hickey, fr., G/F; Dayna Vasconcelos, fr., F

Outlook: The return of Evers, who missed most of last season with a knee injury, is a huge boost. She provides experience and stability in the backcourt. Look for Falmouth to push the ball a little more this year. Warner has a group of versatile, interchangeable players who can run the floor. Two keys for the team: rebounding and defense. The Yachtsmen aren’t tall so they will have to work hard on the boards. 

FREEPORT

Coach: Jen Chon, second year

Last year: 6-12

Returning starters: 2

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Impact players: Leigh Wyman, jr., G; Aubrey Pennell, jr., PG; Alex Mitch, sr., G; Morgan Brown, sr., F; Nina Davenport, soph., F; Jocelyn Davee, jr., G; Ashley Richardson, soph., G; Vanessa Lee, soph., F

Outlook: Looking for a breakout team this year? The Falcons could be it. Wyman (7.6 ppg, 3.3 apg) , Pennell (5.4 ppg, 2.0 apg) and Brown (5.8 ppg, 6.5 rpg, 1.8 blocks) are all experienced, talented players. The addition of Davenport, who played last year at Class A champ McAuley (and was a strong contributor), only bolsters this group more. She and Brown provide a strong inside presence. The defense will be tenacious, led by Wyman, last year’s WMC steals leader (5.6 per game).

FRYEBURG ACADEMY

Coach: Dan Leland, fourth year

Last year: 5-13

Returning starters: 3

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Impact players: Maggie McConkey, sr., PG; Skye Dole, soph., C/F; Kendra Fox, jr., F; Brenna Gerchman, sr., G

Outlook: The Raiders might be a year away from being one of the top teams in the WMC, but could be pretty good this year if younger players develop. They have some strong leadership with McConkey, who was also last year’s leading scorer. Leland doesn’t want to get into a running game with his opponents, and will look to slow things down and set up good shots. 

GRAY-NEW GLOUCESTER

Coach: Mike Andreasen, first year

Last year: 12-8, lost in Western B quarterfinals

Returning starters: 3

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Impact players: Maggie Chaplin, sr., F; Leandra Grant, sr., C; Haylee Cote, jr., F; Sammie Wilkins, jr., PG; Michele Dehetre, jr., G; Maria Valente, fr., F

Outlook: The Patriots have low numbers (only 20 in the program) and little experience (12 of the 20 are freshmen), but they are athletic and in some cases fearless, which is what Andreasen wants to see from his players. If the younger players can settle into their roles, the Patriots could surprise some teams. Chaplin should be the calming influence in tight games. 

GREELY

Coach: Kim Hilbrich, first year

Last year: 15-5, lost in Western B semifinals

Returning starters: 2

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Impact players: Caroline Hamilton, sr., G; Jackie Storey, jr., F; Haylee Munson, sr., G; Taylor Readio, sr., C; Caton Beaulieu, jr., G; Ashley Storey, fr., F; Ellie Weickert, sr., C

Outlook: Traditionally the Rangers are one of the top programs in the WMC and this year should be no exception. They have some nice experience at every position and some top talent. Hamilton is one of the better 3-point shooters in the conference. The returning players have been together for several years, so that should help. Look for the usual tight defense and a strong showing in the standings. 

LAKE REGION

Coach: Paul True, eighth year

Last year: 17-3, lost in Western B semifinals

Returning starters: 4

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Impact players: Sydney Hancock, jr., PG; Tiana-Jo Carter, soph., C; Kelsey Winslow, jr., F; Rachel Wandishin, sr., G; Abby Craffey, sr., F; Allison Clark, sr., F; Kasey Huntress, jr., G; Shannon VanLoan, sr., C

Outlook: The Lakers are regarded in most circles as the team to beat in the WMC and they look the part. They have outstanding skills at every position and are very deep. Hancock is as good a point guard as there is in the class. Carter is one of the top young inside players in the state, and gets plenty of help from Winslow and VanLoan. Lake Region can play any style. Its defense is smothering. The Lakers will be tough to beat if they can stay out of foul trouble and healthy. 

LINCOLN ACADEMY

Coach: Conrad Lewis, third year

Last year: 5-13

Returning starters: 1

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Impact players: Merissa Look, jr., G/F; Kelsey Peaslee, jr., C/F; Jenn Genthner, soph., F/C; Rachel Hughes, soph., F; Danielle Pierce, soph., PG; Kayla Brackett, soph., PG; Danielle Pinkham, fr., PG; Leslie Sandefur, fr., F/G

Outlook: Lewis said the Eagles might be the youngest team in the state — no seniors, two juniors, four sophomores and five freshmen. The future looks bright and this year might not be as challenging as you expect. Look, the lone returning starter, provides excellent leadership to a team of promising youngsters. The goal is to improve on a daily basis. If that happens, the Eagles could surprise some teams. 

MEDOMAK VALLEY

Coach: Randy Hooper, seventh year

Last year: 18-3, lost in Eastern B final

Returning starters: 2

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Impact players: Alanna Vose, sr., G; Mallory Conary, sr., G; Mallory Robbins, sr., C

Outlook: The Panthers graduated a ton of talent and stats from last year’s squad. Hooper has only three players back with any varsity experience, with eight players making the jump from the junior varsity. Vose is a clutch performer who made big plays all last season. If the younger players develop as hoped and improve, they can make a run at another tournament berth. 

MORSE

Coach: Mike Hart, fourth year

Last year: 17-2, lost in Eastern A quarterfinals

Returning starters: 2

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Impact players: Tori Field, sr., G; Katie Henrikson, sr., G; Kerry Cummings, sr., G; Sadia Crosby, jr., C; Brianna Bigelow, sr., G/F; Crystal Leavitt, sr., G

Outlook: The Shipbuilders not only move from Class A to B, but from East to West. Still, more than half their games are against East schools. Hart is looking for his players to push the ball and play at a faster pace than last year to take advantage of their talented guards. The Shipbuilders have some skilled players. If they can develop some consistent scorers, they could contend in their new region. 

OCEANSIDE

Coach: Teel Foster, third year

Last year: Competed as Georges Valley (11-9, lost in the Western C quarterfinals) and Rockland (1-17 in Eastern B).

Returning starters: NA

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Impact players: Kennedi Grover, jr., F; Rachel Frye, jr., C; Jill Bradbury, sr., G/F; Jenn Denault, sr., G; Hannah Plourde, jr., F; Phoebe Ferraiolo, jr., F; Brooke Dugan, soph., G

Outlook: The first consolidated team from Georges Valley and Rockland could be in the thick of the race in Eastern B. Foster said players are pushing each other daily in practice. In total, seven players who started at the two schools are on the roster. There is a strong physical inside presence with Grover, Plourde, Frye and Bradbury. If they get strong guard play and everyone keeps playing together, the Mariners could be in for a long tournament run. 

POLAND

Coach: Darren Littlefield, first year

Last year: 2-16

Returning starters: NA

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Impact players: Katrina Seeley, sr., G; Brittina Maheux, jr., G; Emily Bolduc, soph., G; Michaella Arsenault, fr., G

Outlook: Littlefield makes the move over to the girls’ program after coaching the boys. He inherits a team with eight returning players and some strong newcomers. Bolduc was a second-team WMC selection last year as a freshman. This is a very fast team that will play an up-tempo game at both ends of the court, looking to create some havoc with its defense and get easy transition points. Still young, but the talent is there. 

WELLS

Coach: Donnie Abbott, sixth year

Last year: 9-10, lost in Western B prelim

Returning starters: 2

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Impact players: Mariyah Heath, sr., F; Kelly Beisswanger, sr., PG; Abby Moody, sr., G; Jeni Wallingford, sr., G/F; Allison Furness, soph., F; Nicole Moody, soph., G

Outlook: The Warriors don’t have a lot of size and the roster includes seven sophomores. But it also includes some good shooters, scrappy defenders and athletic players. And the five seniors provide good leadership. Look for Wells to push the ball and try to disrupt opponents with an all-over-the-floor defense. It should be in the thick of the tournament race. 

YARMOUTH

Coach: Jay Lowery, first year

Last year: 1-17

Returning starters: 2

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Impact players: Grace O’Donnell, soph., F; Maddie Woods, sr., G; Jeanna Lowery, sr., F ; Morgan Cahill, sr., C; Sean Cahill, soph., F; Monica Austin, soph., G

Outlook: Jay Lowery makes his first venture into high school varsity coaching. The Clippers should be much improved, if only because Morgan Cahill transferred back after a year at Class A Cheverus, where she was one of the league’s best. If the Clippers can handle full-court pressure — a problem last year — they should be able to set up offensively. They will push the ball more and look to make a big improvement in their record. 

YORK

Coach: Rick Clark, 30th year

Last year: 20-1, lost in Western B final

Returning starters: 2

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Impact players: Andrea Mountford, sr., G; Addison Labonte, sr., G; Emily Campbell, jr., F; Marquis MacGlashing, jr., C; Ruby Cribby, jr., G

Outlook: For the first time in several seasons, the Wildcats aren’t THE team to beat in the WMC. That’s OK with them. They’re still going to be very, very good. Defensively they’ll be strong again, as all Rick Clark teams are. Offensively, they need to find some consistent scorers. Several players could fill that role, including Campbell, one of the league’s rising stars. Mountford and Labonte provide excellent leadership in the backcourt. 

• CLASS C

BOOTHBAY REGION

Coach: Dan Wolotsky, third year

Last year: 9-9

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Returning starters: 4

Impact players: Sarah Caron, jr., G; Alex Clarke, jr., C ; Meghan Smith, sr., C; Alexandra Andrews, sr., PG; Allison Crocker, jr. F

Outlook: The Seahawks had a 7-2 finish to their season a year ago and hope to carry that over to this year. With four starters returning, the momentum is there. Clarke, at 6-1, and Smith, at 5-10, give a great inside presence for this team. If the guards can hold up to pressure and limit their mistakes, the Seahawks could make a run. Andrews, the point guard, is a heady player who can do just about anything. 

LISBON

Coach: Julie Wescott, first year

Last year: 6-12 in Western B

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Returning starters: 3

Impact players: Jessica Campbell, sr., F; Denise Thomas, jr., F; Bailey Madore, jr., PG; Alexa Harmon, sr., G; Haley Eck, sr., F; Sarah Giraldo, sr., G/F; Briana Moore, sr., F/C

Outlook: Wescott is familiar with these players, having been the junior varsity coach the last three years. The move to Class C should benefit the Greyhounds, who look to get back to the tournament. They’ll play an up-tempo game and look to create havoc with an intense defense. It should be a promising season. 

NORTH YARMOUTH ACADEMY

Coach: Liz Smith, third year

Last year: 10-9, lost in Western C prelim

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Returning starters: 3

Impact players: Morgan Scully, sr. G; Charlotte Esancy, soph., F; Mallory Ianno, jr., G; Chloe Leishman, soph., G; Lillie Reder, jr., G

Outlook: As usual, the Panthers have some talented, versatile athletes. Most also have the ability to play on the perimeter or inside. That could lead to some tough matchups for opponents. NYA will play an up-tempo game, looking to score quick points off turnovers. If they stay healthy — an issue last year — the Panthers should make a playoff run. 

OLD ORCHARD BEACH

Coach: Dean Plante, second year

Last year: 9-10, lost in Western C prelim

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Returning starters: 2

Impact players: Anna Foss, jr., F; Christina Colman, jr., C; Daphne Allen, jr., F; Olivia Dubois, jr., G

Outlook: Plante looks to keep up the frenetic pace the Gulls like to use, rotating in 10 players regularly. They’re all versatile, capable of playing inside or out, so he has plenty of options. One huge key will be foul shooting. The Gulls get to the line regularly but hit only 30 percent of more than 400 free throws last year. If they can improve offensively, the Gulls can make another run at the playoffs. 

SACOPEE VALLEY

Coach: Chris Hughes, fourth year

Last year: 10-8

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Returning starters: 1

Impact players: Cassondra Miner, sr., F; Chelsey Burnell, sr., G/F; Danielle Pierce, sr., G/F; Kristen Lyle, jr., G/F; Elizabeth Moulton, jr., G; Morgan Sanborn, soph., G; Dakota Miner, soph., G

Outlook: The Hawks suffered a big blow when forward Melissa Mayhew, a returning starter, suffered a knee injury that could end her season. Still, this is a very athletic team that can cause problems with its pressure defense. The scoring load likely will come from the quartet of Lyle, Sanborn and the Miner sisters. If the Hawks can overcome Mayhew’s loss inside, they can still make a playoff run. 

TRAIP ACADEMY

Coach: Paul Marquis, 12th year

Last year: 11-7, lost in Western C semifinals

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Returning starters: 3

Impact players: Selena Lorrey, sr., F; Katherine Volpe, sr., F; Alli Barrett, soph., G

Outlook: The Rangers have the components to be very competitive in Western C. Lorrey is one of the most versatile and dangerous players around. And Volpe complements her extremely well. Traip plays a rugged schedule with eight Class B games. That should prepare the Rangers well for the tournament. Look for the Rangers to run as much as they can to take advantage of their athleticism. 

WAYNFLETE

Coach: Brandon Salway, sixth year

Last year: 16-4, lost in Western C semifinals

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Returning starters: 5

Impact players: Martha Veroneau, jr., PG; Catherine Veroneau, jr., G/F; Leigh Fernandez, soph., G; Rhiannan Jackson, jr., G; Ella Millard, soph., F; Juliana Harwood, fr., F; Suzy Moore, sr., G

Outlook: The Flyers look to continue their impressive play this year and have the talent to do it. Martha Veroneau is one of the best 3-point shooters around. Catherine Veroneau is back from her knee injury and ready to contribute. Fernandez, Jackson and Moore provide a lot of leadership. Defense and rebounding will be key points for the Flyers. They play a tough schedule, which should prepare them well for the tournament. 

WISCASSET

Coach: Patrick Quinn, second year

Last year: 3-15

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Returning starters: 3

Impact players: Kayla Connors, sr., C; Briana Goud, soph., F; Carolyn Footer, sr., G/F; Heidi Pinkham, jr., G; Kasey Cromwell, soph., G; Alecia Faulkingham, fr., G; Kayla Gordan, fr., G; Sam Sutter, soph., F

Outlook: The Redskins finished strong down the stretch, winning three of their final seven games. They carried that momentum into a nice summer program. Connors provides a strong inside threat, averaging 11 points and 11 rebounds last year, while Goud and Cromwell are up-and-coming players. If they can develop, along with other younger players, look for the Redskins to be in the competition for a playoff berth. 

• CLASS D

GREATER PORTLAND CHRISTIAN

Coach: Keith Dawson, second year

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Last year: 13-5, lost in Western D quarterfinals

Returning starters: 2

Impact players: Suzanne Gonzalez, sr., C; Robyn Waugh, sr., F; Elaine Beech, jr., PG; Kimberlee Dawson, jr., G/F

Outlook: This is a young team, with two eighth-graders on the bench. But there is some talent and experience. Gonzalez, at 5-10, provides an edge inside as a tenacious rebounder and outstanding interior defender. Waugh does the same. Beech and Dawson show good court sense in the backcourt. The Lions play some top C teams such as Traip and Waynflete, and should be well prepared for the playoffs. 

HYDE SCHOOL

Coach: Eva George, third year

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Last year: 3-12

Returning starters: 2

Impact players: Elsa Veron, sr., G; Weina Kong, sr., G; Katie Comeaux, jr., F; Kara Fischer, jr., PG; Jailene Martinez, fr., F; Carolyn Moore, soph., G

Outlook: The Phoenix have a young squad with just two seniors, but are very athletic and should be in most games. George wants to push the ball at all times, looking to score quick, transition baskets. She’s been focusing on defense throughout the preseason. 

PINE TREE ACADEMY

Coach: Norm McGuire, first year

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Last year: 2-14

Returning starters: 4

Impact players: Becky McGuire, soph., PG; Gentille Sandy, sr., C; Hanna Keoster, soph., G; Taylor Johnson, soph., F; Rebecca Moore, soph., F

Outlook: The Breakers may be young but have some up-and-coming talent. The sophomores have played together for years and form a strong group. As they improve, so will the Breakers. Pine Tree also has a much deeper team this year with a roster of 13, up five from last year. That will allow McGuire to implement an up-tempo pace designed to wear down opponents. 

SEACOAST CHRISTIAN

Coach: Charlie Johnson, ninth year

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Last year: 10-8, lost in Western D quarterfinals

Returning starters: 4

Impact players: Ruth Towne, sr., F/C; Kirin DeSmith, sr., PG, Jenny English, sr., G; Shannon Kunz, jr., F; Kylene DeSmith, fr., G

Outlook: The Guardians are annual tournament contenders and this year should be no exception. Towne is one of the premier Class D players in the area, coming off a season in which she averaged 16 points and 14 rebounds. Kirin DeSmith blossomed in the second half of last year, when she averaged nearly 15 points. They have quickness that could cause match-up problems. 

– Mike Lowe


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