High school sports coverage is proudly supported by Maine State Credit Union. 

Coach: Mike Hathaway (16th year)

Region: C South

Last year’s record: 2-7, lost in Class B South quarterfinals

Returning athletes: Seniors — Aidan Parmenter (T/DT), Nolan Cabral (G/LB), Tim Albert (QB), Caleb Bowen (Slot/CB), Bryce Hudson (TB/LB), Trey Bubier (T/DT), Zach Rogers (Slot/CB).; Juniors — Bradley Moreau (TE/DE), Cole Melanson (C/DT), Stephen Gray (WR/FS); Sophomores — Camden Jordan (TE/DE), Cole Morin (TE/DE), Riley Parmenter (G/LB), Alan Peabody (TE/SS), Eli Lind (K/C/LB).

Key losses: D’Andre James (QB/WR/FS), Jack Sylvester (LB), Hunter Sirois (TB/DE),  Hunter Marshall (T/DT), Drake Goupil (WR), Josh Chouinard (WR), David Estabrook (DT).

Promising newcomers: Senior — Tristan Swan (TE/DE); Juniors —Trevor Lafrance (G/DT), Max Pelkey (T/DT), Oren Shaw (WR/CB); Sophomore — Dasean Calder (Slot/CB), Damion Calder (Slot/CB), Mark Herman (Slot/FS), Bryce Luce (T/DT), Hayden Varney (TE/DE).

Season outlook: After a rebuilding year in 2016, the Hornets should see their patience start to pay off this year in their new home, Class C South. Albert will be the full-time starter at QB after splitting time last year. Hudson steps in for Hunter Sirois at tailback, with Bowen Rogers and the tight ends figuring to get the ball, too. Morin, Peabody, Jordan and Riley Parmenter saw significant playing time as freshmen, and part of an offensive line that is big and experienced. They also have more size on the defensive front and should be stout if the young secondary develops.