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1. Edward Little Alpine: The Red Eddies were strong last year and are likely headed for another outstanding season. Sophomore Ellie Porter, one of the best skiers in the state, could sweep the KVAC slalom and giant slalom titles. Senior Maddie Ranger will also contend in those events at the conference level and is the top slalom returner in Class A. Sophomore Caroline Bosse is another strong skier, posting top-10 finishes in both KVAC races last year. Add in seniors Lola Cunningham and Clara Wilson, and the Red Eddies return all five skiers who competed at KVACs last season.

2. Mt. Blue Nordic: Although one of the biggest dynasties in modern Maine high school sports has suffered some graduation hits, expect the Cougars to challenge for a fifth consecutive Class A state title. Senior Elizabeth Strickland is a podium threat in the Kennebec Valley Athletic Conference and statewide, and won the individual Waterville Sprint Festival title Dec. 14. Junior Abby Dorr is another top skier, the No. 3 returner statewide in Class A. She competed with senior Molly Patterson in the Sprint Festival team sprint, finishing fourth as a duo. Juliette Poussier, another senior, should also rack up points.

3. Leavitt Nordic: The Hornets have the pieces to put together another strong season despite losing key skiers from last year. Leavitt boasts one of the best skiers in the state in senior Haley Marston, the top returner in the KVAC and a state title contender in Class B. The Hornets also bring back five juniors: Elizabeth Buckley and Eris Cloutier, both of whom performed well at the Waterville Sprint Festival, as well as Kiera Bean, Acadia Cloutier and Julia York.

4. Mt. Blue Alpine: Despite having no seniors on the roster, the Cougars should not be counted out. Junior Malina McKendry will be a podium threat in the KVAC this season and should also compete for top-10 spots in both slalom and giant slalom at states. Sophomore Scout Simpson is another potent skier for Mt. Blue, finishing 13th in the GS and 14th in slalom last year. Junior Izzy Hanson could be in the mix for top-15 KVAC finishes, while sophomore Lily Bachelder provides more depth.

5. Oxford Hills Alpine: After finishing fourth in the KVAC slalom and giant slalom last year, the Vikings are hoping for another strong season. Senior Alyson Cash returns after placing fifth in giant slalom at KVACs, as does fellow senior Sam McPhail, who finished 10th in slalom and 14th in GS. Coach Carter Bowers also has high hope for one of his freshmen, Elise Knapp, who leads what he believes will be an exciting group of younger girls who can help the Vikings rack up points this winter.

Also keep an eye on: Gray-New Gloucester Nordic