As Week 11 of Maine high school football approaches, excitement builds with two Gold Balls set to be awarded in the eight-man division. The Camden Hills Windjammers are poised to face the Spruce Mountain Phoenix for the eight-man Large School state title this Saturday at Edward Little High School in Auburn.
Camden Hills, boasting a record of 9-1, broke through to the finals after a dominant 35-0 victory over Mount Desert Island in the regional championship. Their quarterback, Hollis Schwalm, was recently honored as the Campbell Conference Eight-Man North Player of the Year, showcasing his pivotal role in leading the team.
On the other side, Spruce Mountain (8-1) secured their spot in the title game by overcoming Mt. Ararat in a closely contested match, finishing 20-14. The Phoenix feature standout players such as quarterback and defensive back Dylan Jewett and running back/linebacker Austin Armandi, both of whom have made significant impacts on both offense and defense throughout the season.
Eight-Man Small School Championship Rematch
Unlike the excitement of a first-time state champion in the Large division, the eight-man Small School final will see a familiar face as Old Orchard Beach and Stearns meet again. This matchup marks the continuation of a storied rivalry, with Old Orchard Beach winning last year”s encounter.
Old Orchard Beach, appearing in their fourth consecutive Small School final, aims to secure their tenth state title. They face Stearns, who is competing in their thirteenth state championship game, looking to capture their first title since 1998.
The two teams previously met this season on September 19, when Old Orchard Beach triumphed in a 34-20 victory, demonstrating their ability to perform under pressure.
Potential Rematches and Other Class Finals
Class A could see a repeat of last year”s title game if both Portland and Thornton Academy win their respective regional finals. Portland (8-2) faces Bangor (6-4) in the North final, while Thornton Academy (9-1) hosts Bonny Eagle (9-1) in the South final. A rematch between these two teams would rekindle the competitive spirit, given their recent history.
In Class D, the chance for an all-central Maine championship looms large, with Winthrop/Monmouth/Hall-Dale (9-0) and Winslow (8-1) on the verge of meeting in the finals. Winthrop seeks their first regional title since 2008, while Winslow aims to avenge their only loss this season against John Bapst (9-0).
The Class C semifinals promise drama as well, with rematches between Greely and Wells, and Leavitt against Hermon, both of which will determine who advances to the state finals.
This weekend is set to be a thrilling conclusion to the high school football season in Maine, with teams vying for glory on the gridiron.
