Female athlete of the year: Lily Posternak, York
She was a two-sport athlete at York – a center midfielder on a Wildcats team that won three consecutive Class B state field hockey championships and a starting guard on the basketball team.
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The Fab Freshman: Emma Gallant, Cheverus
After just one track season, Emma Gallant already leads the state with the fastest times and two state titles.
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Team of the Year: Girls’ basketball team, Vinalhaven
The Vikings overcome a tough travel schedule including ferry rides and bus rides, going 14-4 in the regular season and then rolling to their first Class D state championship.
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The Role Model: Austin Dutremble, Biddeford
Austin Dutremble’s coaches at Biddeford High say the senior treats everyone as a friend, be it a freshman new to the team, a teacher, a coach or a member of the custodial staff.
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The Wow Factor, Ruslan Reiter, Maranacook
Ruslan Reiter is among the best Paralympic Nordic skiers and quietly goes about his business. He was born with a limb difference, and his right arm ends just above the wrist.
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The Better Neighbor: Emily Jefferds, Scarborough
Scarborough High junior Emily Jefferds doesn’t let diabetes keep her from success in softball and basketball. Diagnosed at age 7, she advocates for research and has spoken with members of Congress.
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Male Athlete of the Year: Austin Lufkin, Brewer
He broke a 50-year-old record in the shot put, but Austin Lufkin was also a powerful defensive end who earned a football scholarship. “I am a football player who does track,” Lufkin said.
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Academic Ace: Kate Guerin, Mt. Ararat
Kate Guerin has always been committed to her classes, but she’s made time for three sports as well. “My mother’s motto was ‘School comes first, then sports,’” Guerin said. “And that’s the way I think.”
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Unsung Hero: Lydia Henderson, South Portland
Lydia Henderson’s coach, Lynne Hasson, said Henderson, a senior, “always put the team first” during a four-year stretch of going 64-17.
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The Clutch Player: Jackson Fotter, Gorham
Gorham’s Jackson Fotter, a three-time SMAA All-Star and 2016 Player of the Year, comes through when his team needs him most.
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Coach of the Year: Steve DeAngelis, Maranacook
Sure, Steve DeAngelis wins state Nordic titles, but the coach has so many other big wins over 30 years.
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Loudest and Proudest: Rick and Jacki Buzzell, Fryeburg
This supportive couple provide underpinnings to all things athletic in Fryeburg.
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