Meet Maine’s 18 new high school football coaches
Maine High School Football Programs Experience Widespread Leadership Changes This Year
Across Maine's high school football circuit, a noticeable wave of new leadership is reshaping the sport. According to recent data, 22.8 percent of state programs now operate under freshly appointed head coaches—a figure that underscores a period of significant transition in the state's secondary football landscape.
The most prominent example involves Lewiston High School, where interim coach Justin Bisson assumed the official head coach role earlier this year. Bisson had previously led the Blue Devils as interim during the latter half of the 2021 season before his promotion to permanent head coach position.
This surge in coaching turnover extends beyond Lewiston. In Class A, Bangor's Jack Hersom took over from Dave Morris, while Massabesic's Cory Woodsome was succeeded by Lucas Labbe. Portland's Dylan Rottkov replaced Nick Cliche, and Sanford's Ethan Stump followed Todd Hildebrand.
The Class B division sees changes at Camden Hills with Nate Walrath replacing Chris Christie, Falmouth's Brandon Dorsett stepping into Spencer Emerson's role, and Lawrence's Pete Curtis moving past John Hersom. Marshwood's Andrew Elwell joined Alex Rotsko, and Oak Hill's Jim Palmer partnered with Chad Stowell.
Class D brings further shifts: Issiah Bachelder leads Cape Elizabeth under Pete Cekutis, TJ Grassi at Gray-New Gloucest follows Mike Caiazzo, and Keith Libby at Mt. Ararat succeeds Frank True. Old Town's Timothy Ellis III remains under David Gross, while Waterville's Mike Hamel works alongside Isaac Leblanc.
Smaller schools also feel the impact. St. John Valley's Jordan Hodgkin replaces John Edwards, though the program will sit out varsity competition this season due to low participation. Similarly, Telstar's Mike O'Leary follows Tim O'Connor, and Washington Academy's Jon Solomon oversees Will Granieri.
These changes reflect broader trends in high school athletics, with many programs seeking fresh leadership to adapt to evolving competitive landscapes. The statewide percentage suggests a growing emphasis on innovation and renewal within Maine's football programs.
