Here’s the 1st Varsity Maine football honor roll of 2026

Maine High‑School Football: Friday’s Friday‑Night Fireworks in Standish, Kennebunk, and Beyond

In a Saturday‑morning sun‑lit tableau of teenage grit and athleticism, the high‑school football gridirons across Maine buzzed with competition. Friday night, a swath of teams met in a string of contests that delivered explosive play, standout individual performances, and a few nail‑biting finishes. From South Portland’s resilient run of Christopher Salamone to Madison’s clutch game‑winning catch, the day showcased the talent and determination that fuels the state’s football culture.

South Portland Red Riots vs. Bonny Eagle – Standish

The Red Riots opened the game with a statement, as running back Christopher Salamone ripped a 32‑yard touchdown on a fourth‑and‑two play. Salamone’s drive, however, did not end there. Over 20 carries, he amassed a season‑high 142 yards, including a 32‑yard burst that put the ball in the end zone and a 1‑yard touchdown in the second half. Despite Salamone’s effort, South Portland fell 21‑14 to the Bonny Eagle Eagles in a hard‑fought contest that kept fans on the edge of their seats.

Kennebunk Rams vs. Falmouth Navigators – Kennebunk

The Rams’ victory over the Navigators was a testament to balanced play‑calling and defensive resilience. Running back Ethan White led the way with 181 rushing yards on 19 carries, highlighted by a 77‑yard touchdown run that electrified the crowd. White’s second touchdown—a single‑yard plunge—sealed a 33‑28 win that kept Kennebunk’s season on the right trajectory. Tyler Samson also contributed, adding two rushing touchdowns and two interceptions, including a pivotal goal‑line pick‑off that preserved the Rams’ lead.

Cony Rams vs. Fryeburg – Cony

Cony’s first varsity start for quarterback Drew Lindquist proved a memorable one. Completing 21 of 36 passes for 229 yards, Lindquist fired two touchdown passes, the last of which hit Oliver Odom with 2.9 seconds remaining for a 25‑21 victory over the Fryeburg Vikings. Lindquist’s debut underscored Cony’s promising future, as the Rams’ offense found rhythm in a tight finish.

Dirigo Cougars vs. Poland – Dirigo

Dirigo’s dominant performance yielded a 52‑28 win over Poland. Quarterback Hudson Lufkin combined for a staggering 343 passing yards and five touchdowns, while also adding a 127‑yard rushing touchdown of his own. His efforts were complemented by defensive play: 12 tackles and a blocked field goal. The Cougars’ balanced attack and defensive tenacity kept Poland on the sidelines throughout the game.

Leavitt Hornets vs. Medomak Valley – Leavitt

Leavitt’s 39‑8 win over Medomak Valley was driven by quarterback Landon Marquis, who completed 10 of 17 passes for 185 yards and tossed four touchdown passes. Marquis also rushed for 31 yards, showcasing his dual‑threat capability. The Hornets’ offensive efficiency was matched by a defense that stifled Medomak’s run game and forced critical turnovers.

Marshwood Hawks vs. Sanford – Marshwood

The Marshwood Hawks’ 50‑27 victory over Sanford was defined by the play of running back Greg Castoras, who rushed for four touchdowns. His long 89‑yard run and two 2‑point conversion runs highlighted the Hawks’ aggressive offense. Marshwood’s success came in spite of a tough defense, which held Sanford to a modest offensive output.

Madison Bulldogs vs. John Bapst – Madison

Madison’s 46‑40 win over John Bapst featured a dramatic finish. Running back Logan Dawes recorded 20 tackles, a blocked punt, and five receptions for 57 yards, including a game‑winning touchdown catch with just 22 seconds left on the clock. The Bulldogs’ resilience in the final moments exemplified their championship‑prone mindset.

Maine Central Institute Huskies vs. Oak Hill – MCI

Maine Central Institute’s 42‑6 drubbing of Oak Hill was a showcase of balanced offense. Caleb Rush accounted for all six Huskies’ touchdowns—three passing and three rushing—while amassing 195 passing yards and 132 rushing yards. Rush’s performance underscored MCI’s depth and versatility.

Falmouth Navigators vs. Kennebunk – Falmouth

Falmouth’s 33‑28 loss to Kennebunk was a story of early dominance turned into a defensive showdown. The Navigators’ offense struggled to maintain momentum, and Kennebunk’s defense held firm. The game’s final minutes were a testament to both teams’ tenacity, but Kennebunk ultimately secured the win.

The Big Picture

The day’s games highlighted several themes that resonate across Maine’s high‑school football landscape: the impact of individual performances, the importance of clutch plays in the waning minutes, and the continuing development of young athletes poised for future college careers. Whether it was Salamone’s breakout rushing effort or Madison’s last‑second touchdown, each contest added a chapter to the season’s unfolding story.

High‑school sports coverage is proudly supported by the Maine State Credit Union.