Class A outlook

There aren’t many teams in Class A that can honestly claim to be after the state title this year. Of the 28 teams in Class A, there are approximately 10 with a legitimate shot at the top, and of course the usual suspects all weight in in the top ten.

Edward Little lost a couple of solid players, primarily on the blue line, but will have more offensive power than most teams will see in their dreams. That could translate into two things, but with the proper coaching the primary objective of repeating as state champions is within reach.

St. Dom’s, North Yarmouth Academy, Cheverus and Lewiston are all in the mix as well (as usual). St. Dom’s graduated just two players last year and have eight solid seniors, including sniper Shawn Longley and sophomore studs Tyler Martin, Mike Carpenter and Pat O’Neill. Goaltending won’t be an issue, with Brandon Gervais back betwene the pipes.

Lewiston will have its biggest question mark in goal, as three inexperienced boys vie for the job. Offense won’t be a problem for the Blue Devils, but defense will be reliant on three veterans.

Cheverus and North Yarmouth both suffered considerable losses in the offseason, but are known to rebuild well. Both teams have solid coaches and will both be in the mix by the end of the season.

Darkhorse teams this season include Skowhegan, Waterville, Bangor, South Portland and Portland.

Skowhegan is loaded with senior talent, while Waterville may be on its way back up after a down year last year. Bangor has also reloaded, and its coaches are optimistic about the season.

South Portland’s coaching staff considers this team to its best in several years, while Portland will look to regain its form from two years back, when it upset St. Dom’s and reached the finals.

Class B outlook

Three solid Class B teams have moved on to Class A, leaving just two of the perennial Western powers to battle it out for the title.

As usual, Yarmouth and Cape Elizabeth are on the tip of every coach’s tongue as the teams to beat in the West.

Greely should have a strong team this season, as will Gorham. Freeport could contend with the addition of Old Orchard Beach skaters to its roster, and Maranacook, Fryeburg, Leavitt and Win-Dale will all be fighting for playoff positioning.

In the East, Gardiner looks like it may return to form this season after an off-season last year, as will Orono and Winslow.

Houlton/Hodgdon looks strong again, also, and should contend with Presque Isle, Stearns and John Bapst for a playoff spot.

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