Coach: Travis Magnusson (first year)

Last year’s record: 19-3, Western Class C champions, lost to Lee Academy in state final

Returning players: Seniors — Caleb Turner (5-11 guard), Josh Turbide (5-10 guard), Cody St. Germain (6-4 forward), Ben Holmes (6-2 forward), Mitch Stanley (6-5 forward), Jake Dowland (6-0 forward): Juniors — T.J. Frost (5-10 guard), Hunter Ross (5-8 guard).

Key losses: Spencer Ross, Arik Fenstermacher.

Promising newcomers: Senior — Nick Blodgett (6-0 forward); Juniors — Robbie Babb (6-2 forward), Chad Snowman (5-10 guard); Sophomore — Dylan Kidder (6-0 forward); Freshman — Tyler Frost (5-9 guard).

Outlook: Dirigo has already been in uncharted territory and now could achieve the unthinkable — four straight Western Class C titles under four different coaches. Magnusson moves over after a succcessful run with Livermore Falls. He inherits a team that returns eight of its top 10 players, including four starters and the sixth man. St. Germain emerged as the dominant big man in the MVC last year. Turbide is a dangerous outside shooter, and Holmes is an all-around talent who can score, rebound and play tenacious defense. The Cougars hope to take the next step after losing in the final three straight years.

Coach’s comment: “Our expectations are high this season, but we also know that we have a lot of work to do to get to where we want to be.” — Coach Travis Magnusson

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