Sports Notes

Student-athletes line up on stage during Sanford High School’s fall sports recognition ceremony at the Performing Arts Center. The evening celebrated their achievements and contributions to the school’s athletic programs.

Photo Credit: Sanford School Department

Sanford High School held its fall sports recognition night on Tuesday, November 12th, in the Performing Arts Center to recognize student-athletes and their teams’ accomplishments.

The event began with SHS Athletic Director Zach Lemelin recognizing student-athletes who maintained a cumulative GPA of 92.5 or higher. The school’s Leadership Council members, who attended 70% of weekly Wednesday meetings, were also honored for their dedication.

Following the leadership recognition, each fall coach had the opportunity to share their season highlights and present team awards.

In Golf, Head Coach Rossie Kearson highlighted the team’s progress throughout the season. “While the season didn’t necessarily go as well as I would like, I can honestly say there’s a lot of progress made,” he said. Brayden Baron earned Second-Team All-SMAA Conference honors and was named Sanford’s Most Outstanding Golfer, while Ethan Burns received Most Improved Player recognition for his dedication in his first year of golf. Noah Corliss earned the Coaches’ Award for his positive attitude and perseverance.

Cross Country Head Coach Nate Smith celebrated significant milestones for his team, including the boys’ team winning the Class A Sportsmanship Banner for the first time in program history. The team achieved 42 personal records and met 23 personal and team goals. Team captains Sophie Therrien, Eliza Allen, Gabe Waterman, and Jack Van Gieson were recognized for their “superlative leadership.”

In girls’ soccer, head coach Dave McCall said leadership led the team to steady improvement throughout the season. “Our varsity team was very competitive. We played against the top teams in the league and were right there with everybody,” McCall shared. Sophie Olivo, Savannah Knight, Kya Duprey, Ava Hudson, and Adeline Fiandaca each received conference honors.

Despite facing the third toughest schedule in Maine, according to head coach Mark Boissonneault, the Football team showed tremendous heart. Rhylen Avery was named the team’s Offensive MVP, accumulating 1,022 yards on 164 carries. Brady Boissonneault was named Defensive MVP, recording 63 tackles and demonstrating exceptional leadership as linebacker.

Volleyball head coach Ryan Geary praised the team’s growth and resilience throughout their challenging schedule. Emmy Chase was recognized as Most Improved Player, while Samone Gallagher was named Most Valuable Player.

Field Hockey head coach Marti Kane celebrated the program’s continued improvement, noting the team’s best regular season record in recent years at 10-4. The team had five players earn All-Conference recognition, with Audrey Payeur receiving First-Team honors and consideration for All-American status. Hailey Payeur, Paige Sevigny, Sadie Sevigny, and Linda Rose Krol received the other conference recognitions.

Boys’ soccer head coach Bill Puffer maintained optimism despite a challenging season. “I’m extremely proud of all the boys, all the hours that they put in, the hard work and the dedication.” Puffer celebrated a few standout players with Levi Mann earning Defensive Player of the Year and All-Conference recognition for the second consecutive year. Cole Adawadkar and Gavin Hebler were also highlighted for their commitment and dedication.

Cheerleading head coach Catrina Woodard recognized several outstanding members through awards voted on by the squad. Amelia Walker earned Most Improved Player, transforming from a timid sophomore to a confident athlete willing to try new skills. Madison Osborne received the Most Spirit award for her enthusiasm and energy, while Natalie Lam was voted Most Valuable Player. Taylor Coffey earned the Coaches’ Award for going “above and beyond for the football players, for cheerleaders and for me and literally everybody,” including taking a leadership role during homecoming week.