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Bonny Eagle and Thornton Academy Set Stage for Class A South Championship
SACO, Nov. 15, 2025 – The high‑school football field in Saco will host a clash that has the potential to write another chapter in Maine’s football lore. The Bonny Eagle Scots, fresh off a dominant 2024 season and carrying a potent offensive line, will take on the Thornton Academy Golden Trojans, a program that has been a perennial contender in the Class A South for years. The game is scheduled for 2 p.m. in the evening, and it promises to be a showcase of talent, strategy, and coaching experience.
Bonny Eagle – Building on a Strong Offense
Bonny Eagle enters the championship with an offensive line that has been the backbone of its success. Four starters – senior tackles Corbin Richard (6‑3, 325 lb.) and Logan Varney (6‑4, 295 lb.), senior center Landon Reynolds (6‑2, 260 lb.), and junior guard Maddox Butler (205 lb.) – will guard the quarterback and protect the running game.
Coaching veteran Kevin Cooper, who has amassed a 187‑86 record and seven state titles, says the team has confidence in its offense. “Some people might think we’re hurting at quarterback,” Cooper told reporters, “we’re not.” His words underscore the squad’s belief that the new starting quarterback, three‑year starter Lucas Klehn, can manage the offense effectively. Klehn’s experience on the line and familiarity with the system have earned him the trust of the coaching staff.
The wide‑receiver corps is bolstered by New England 100‑meter champ Drew Gervais, who recorded 32 catches for 625 yards and eight touchdowns last season. Complementing him are Ben Noe and Ben Havu at running back, while senior wide receiver Wes Pinkham (also a safety) and senior tight end Finn Leavitt (nose tackle) round out the passing attack. Bonny Eagle’s roster includes several two‑way starters, so the coaching staff is focused on developing depth to sustain the team’s high level of play through the playoffs.
Thornton Academy – A Legacy of Dominance
Thornton Academy has made it to seven straight Class A championship games, claiming four state titles in that span, including a 28‑0 victory over Portland in 2024. Head coach Kevin Kezal reached his 200th career win in that game, tying him with Cooper for the most state titles among active coaches. The Trojans are entering the championship with a seasoned offense and defense but must replace the record‑setting rusher Connor Ayoob, who won the Fitzpatrick Trophy last season.
Brennan Tabor is the likely lead back, but he will also serve as the top linebacker—a role Kezal traditionally balances with depth. On the quarterback position, senior Noah Fullerton will be responsible for throwing to a trio of capable receivers: Quinn Cook, Logan LeBlanc, and Aiden Morin, the latter expected to start at cornerback.
Thornton’s offensive line features returning seniors Quinn Purvis (left tackle), Jaden Stevens (center), and Sam Damborindegui (right tackle). On defense, Tabor, outside linebacker/defensive end Chase Paquette, and linebacker Josiah Blain will shoulder leadership duties.
Other Class A South Contenders
While the championship game is the headline, other teams in the South bracket are also shaping up for the season. Noble Knights, coached by Keenon Blindow, have emerged as a top‑three contender with senior quarterback Mark LaPointe and defensive standout Carter Ouellette. Portland Bulldogs, under new head coach Dylan Rottkov, are building on three straight Class A North titles and have a robust offensive line featuring senior Dan Gallagher and Law Nguyen.
Key Match‑ups and Storylines
Offensive line battles: Bonny Eagle’s line will face Thornton’s stalwart offensive line. The matchup between the senior tackles of Bonny Eagle and the seasoned tackle Quinn Purvis of Thornton could be pivotal.
Speed on the ball: Drew Gervais’ speed will be tested against Thornton’s defensive backfield. The ability of the Trojans’ secondary to contain a 100‑meter athlete could determine the outcome.
Quarterback play: While Cooper’s confidence in Klehn is clear, Thornton’s Noah Fullerton will have to navigate a defense that has lost eight starters. The game will test Fullerton’s decision‑making and accuracy.
Depth and resilience: Bonny Eagle’s two‑way players and Thornton’s use of a single player at two positions highlight the importance of depth. The outcome may hinge on which team can better handle injuries or fatigue as the game progresses.
A Game Worth Watching
The Class A South championship is more than a single contest; it reflects the culmination of years of hard work, strategic planning, and community support. Both schools have built traditions of excellence, and the game will provide a platform for future stars to showcase their talents.
With the field set and the fans eager, the stage is ready for a battle that will be remembered in Maine high‑school football annals. Whether the Scots can hold onto their offensive line advantage or the Trojans can leverage their championship pedigree, the 2 p.m. showdown in Saco promises excitement, drama, and a celebration of the sport that brings Maine communities together.
