It’s a new season with new expectations, but there will be quite a few familiar names challenging for soccer supremacy in boys’ action this fall.

Traditional powers like Brunswick, Mt. Ararat, Falmouth, NYA and Richmond could be contenders. Local clubs like Lewiston, St. Dom’s, Maranacook and Mt. Blue could make some noise as well.

Class A

Brunswick and Mt. Ararat, the two Eastern A finalists, likely won’t miss a beat this season. They rarely do. Waterville and Messalonskee both lost a significant number of seniors. Lewiston, Mt. Blue and Edward Little each reached the quarterfinals last year and should be chasing playoff berths again. The Blue Devils have to replace an all-star goalie but have an experienced and competitive squad that could be a threat. Mt. Blue had a relatively young team last year and won nine games, including a prelim. The Cougars could be poised to better that standing, while EL has some holes to fill but should be solid in net and on defense. Leavitt returns 11 players from last year, including its midfield and front line. So the Hornets are hoping to be in the playoff hunt. Oxford Hills also has a large contingent back looking for improvement.

Class B

Maranacook was regrouping last year after losing 10 seniors. The Black Bears have the bulk of a quarterfinal team back to contend in Western B. The WMC squads should certainly make up much of the playoff field. York has eight starters back, while Yarmouth and Freeport should remain contenders despite some loses. Falmouth had an early exit after being the top seed. The Yachtsmen should be a team to beat as well. Winslow had a young squad that earned the second seed last year and should be one of Eastern B’s best. Oak Hill hopes to better its standing in the KVAC class B and work toward a playoff berth.

Class C

After meeting in the regional final last fall, St. Dom’s and NYA could be on a collision course again. Both teams should be gunning for gold and return potent teams. Traip could be a strong WMC offering with eight starters back, and Waynflete will be in the mix also. The MVC will have Georges Valley back with solid a club. Mt. Abram and Telstar suffered through heavy graduation losses last year, and could be poised to be among the MVC’s best. Winthrop boasts playoff potential as well.

Class D

Richmond lost in the Class D state final but could get another shot at it with another strong club. Rangeley and Buckfield will battle for playoff positioning and hope to improve upon last year’s efforts.