SOUTH PARIS – The format is certainly intriguing because there will be nowhere to hide.

That will be the case at the first-ever Viking Preseason Duals, which provide teams with a test of endurance Saturday at Oxford Hills High School.

This is the initial attempt at holding a dual meet format in Maine.

The challenge is comprised of 12 teams from throughout the state and each will participate in a series of dual meets. The teams will be divided into three pools and wrestlers could potentially compete in five matches, prior to reaching the medal rounds. Each pool is comprised of four teams.

“I’ve been thinking about this for a long time,” Oxford Hills coach Mark Dolloff said. “Granted, it required a lot of planning, but something of this magnitude has been needed in Maine. There will be a lot of competition held throughout the day.”

The first pool features Lisbon, Foxcroft, Biddeford and Belfast. Comprising the second pool are Dirigo, Noble, Marshwood and Dexter. Mountain Valley is joined by Bucksport, Sanford and Oxford Hills in the final pool. A mat will also be available for junior varsity matches.

“It’s going to be extremely interesting,” Lisbon coach Mark Stevens said. “I’m excited because our team doesn’t normally see any live competition prior to the start of the regular season. The top five teams in Class C will be there.”

Class C Dirigo will be stepping into the fire right away with the first two meets against Class A favorites Noble and Marshwood.

Numerous states hold dual meet challenges, following their respective state meets. The concept is popular because there has already been preliminary discussions about holding a dual-meet championship in Maine. This would be held one week after the state meet and prior to the New England championships.

“Its a chance for my kids to get some mat time before we head off to the opening tournaments,” Mountain Valley coach Gary Dolloff said.

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