Meet Varsity Maine’s 10 unsung heroes of October

Maine high‑school athletes earn “unsung heroes” nod for October performances

In a statewide effort to recognize the players who quietly turn the tide of a game, Varsity Maine has spotlighted a dozen students who made decisive contributions in October. From the net of a volleyball court in Saco to the sidelines of a football field in Hermon, these athletes earned the title “unsung hero” for their performances in the month of the press release.

Volleyball

Gorham – Kasey Plaud

The Rams’ fourth straight Class A title was capped by Plaud’s all‑round effort in the state final against Scarborough. In the championship match she tossed six aces and logged a double‑digit tally of kills, helping Gorham take a 3‑2 win. Earlier in the tournament, Plaud recorded two aces and five kills—including a clutch set of three in the decisive set—against Thornton Academy. The coach noted she “filled whatever role the Rams needed defensively, at the net or at the service line,” underscoring her versatility.

Greely – Maddie Hussey

The Rangers’ 3‑1 victory over Gardiner was propelled by Hussey’s presence at the net. She finished the match with four kills and two blocks. Freshman Lilah Rosenfeld, who helped set up the Rangers’ serves, described Hussey as a “big help” in the middle, praising her impact on both offense and defense.

Mt. Blue – Gwen Lesperance

Lesperance’s performance in the Cougars’ double‑overtime 2‑1 triumph over Messalonskee was highlighted by four saves. One of the stops came during the first overtime’s break‑away, a “game‑saving” moment that kept the Cougars alive. Though the final score was tight, her composure in the clutch played a key role.

Field Hockey

Yarmouth – Gianna LaBella

In a regular‑season win over Freeport, LaBella’s defensive work at center back was pivotal. She consistently halted the opposition’s attack and often turned defensive stops into quick counter‑attacks. Coach Bre Page praised her, saying she was a “brick wall” who “can play anywhere.”

Mt. Blue – Gwen Lesperance

(See above – Lesperance’s double‑overtime game also showcased her goaltending prowess.)

Soccer

Scarborough – Amarine Laine

The Red Storm’s 2‑1 victory over South Portland featured Laine’s disruptive defense. She stepped in front of passes and derailed several attacks, creating space for the team’s offense.

Thornton – Griffin Ayres

During a 1‑1 tie against Gorham, Ayres’ relentless defensive pressure was key. He battled a Moises Ntango for a loose ball, denying a potential second‑half goal. His tenacity helped the Golden Trojans secure the draw.

Edward Little – Brodyn Rodrigue

Rodrigue’s steadiness in goal was on display in the 4‑2 quarterfinal win over Mt. Blue. He made seven saves, weathering a busy start to the second half and helping the Red Eddies advance in the Class A North tournament.

Football

Greely – Rocky Axelsen

In a 28‑14 win over Hermon, Axelsen contributed on both offense and defense. He made a 46‑yard screen pass that set up a touchdown and, on the defensive side, held Hermon receiver Griffin Dunton to just one catch for 11 yards.

Skowhegan – Cael Hamilton

Hamilton’s shift from tackle to left guard in the River Hawks’ 28‑21 win over Messalonskee proved decisive. He opened holes for junior Austin Lancaster’s 176‑yard, five‑touchdown outing. Coach Brad Cyr called Hamilton “the leader of that unit,” noting his versatility and impact on the offense.

Wells – Robert Stevens

When Wells’ defensive line suffered injuries, 5‑5, 120‑lb. Stevens—normally a running back—was thrust into the defensive tackle role. He recovered a fumble in a 28‑24 victory over Freeport, showcasing his adaptability and determination.

The Theme of “Unsung Heroes”

Varsity Maine’s monthly series highlights players who, while not always in the headlines, consistently provide the backbone of their teams. In October, the spotlight fell on athletes whose defensive stops, clutch plays, and behind‑the‑scenes work turned games in their teams’ favor. The stories, which range from volleyball aces to football tackle improvisation, underscore that victory often depends on more than just the stars.

“After every victory, the conversation starts with who played the starring role in the triumph,” notes Varsity Maine. “But the real game‑changers are the ones who make the blocks in front of the touchdown rushers or dive to the ground for a dig before their teammate hammers the ball back over the net.” The October cohort of unsung heroes demonstrates exactly that: quiet excellence that translates into wins across Maine’s high‑school sports landscape.