Last year the Division IV Final Four consisted of Concord Christian, Woodsville, Pittsburg-Canaan, and Derryfield. 

 Concord Christian ran the table and won the first Division IV title in program history. They have since moved up to Division III. 

 Woodsville gave the Kingsmen their best shot in the semifinals, but in the end, came up just short. The Engineers core consisted of mainly seniors, and they have all since graduated. 

 The same can go for Pittsburg-Cannan, who clawed their way back against Derryfield in a terrific semifinal game but fell just short in overtime. They have since graduated that great core that got them that far.

 Derryfield was the second-best team all year long in Division IV, and that is how they finished, falling to Concord Christian in the Division IV final. They have since moved up to Division II. 

 If you take anything from all of that, there has been a lot of change in Division IV. Two semifinalists have left the division and the other two will be in more of a rebuilding phase this season. 

 This opens the door for a lot of former and new faces to sit atop the division this season. 

 Today in our first of eight basketball previews we take a look at Division IV, a division that should be a wide-open race from start to finish. 

 Today's column is brought to you by our friends at partners at White Mountains Community College! 

 

Division IV Pre-Season Rankings

1. Colebrook

2. Sunapee 

3. Groveton

4. Newmarket 

5. Portsmouth Christian

6. Littleton 

7. Gorham

8. Moultonborough

9. Hinsdale

10. Woodsville

Outside of the Top 10: Farmington, Lisbon, Profile, Epping, Pittsburg-Canaan, Pittsfield, Wilton-Lyndeborough, Franklin, Mount Royal, Mascenic

 

 The Colebrook Mohawks have been a force to be reckoned with for many years. Last year was a bit different for this group. They could be beaten, something many teams were unable to do for so many years in the North Country. 

 They lost a nail-biter in the quarterfinals to rival Pittsburg-Canaan and just like that their streak of consecutive Final Fours had been snapped. It was the first time this team had shown vulnerability in quite some time. 

 “They are motivated anyways, but that loss is a little extra fuel,” said head coach Duane Call. “They put in the work over the summer. As soon as soccer was over they were in the gym getting shots up.” 

 Colebrook returns five seniors who have been impact players for this program from a young age. Ariana Lord, Sierra Riff, Emma McKeage, Shyanna Fuller, and Sara Fernald will be the leaders and tone-setters for the Mohawks. “They’ve all been there before,” said Call. 

 Lord, Riff, and McKeage specifically have been contributing to the success of this program since they were middle schoolers.

 The 6’0” Lord established herself as a premier player in Division IV last season with her play on both ends of the court. “Ariana needs to do what she did last year and get a little better at it,” said Call. “She is solid all the way around. She needs to be confident about the things she does and not worry about the things she can’t control.” 

 Not too many teams will test Lord in the paint defensively and on the offensive end brings a great inside-out game that is tough to gameplan for. There aren’t too many shots you can’t take away or limit her to. 

 Sierra Riff took over the point guard reigns a season ago and flourished in that role as the year progressed. “Sierra has taken more of a leadership role since last year,” said Call. “Playing this summer and so far this year she has improved significantly.” 

 Riff is a defense-first player and with that, she needs to stay out of foul trouble. With the responsibility of running the defense and offense, having Riff on the floor will be a must for Colebrook. 

 The confidence and growth of Emma McKeage has been a game-changer the last few seasons. This year is one where McKeage can put it all together. “She is one of our better outside shooters for sure,” said Call. “She will help Sierra a little more with ball handling than in the past. It will change our dynamic with both of them sharing the ball-handling duties.” 

 Shyanna Fuller and Sara Fernald do a lot of the dirty work for the Mohawks. “They are the unsung heroes that don’t get the credit they deserve,” said Call. “They are big parts both offensively and defensively. 

 Fuller is a good compliment to Lord down low and gives Colebrook another presence on the boards. “She runs the floor well and crashes the boards hard,” said Call. 

 Fernald can play inside and on the perimeter and brings a great defensive mindset to the lineup. “She is a big factor with the rebounding and defense she plays.” 

 Freshman Haley Rossitto will be a spark plug off the bench, much like she was as an 8th grader last season. “She did a tremendous job filling that role last year,” said Call. “She could easily start on our team or most any teams as a freshman.” 

 Rossitto can change the energy as soon as she is up off the bench. That can swing a lot of games for Colebrook this season. “She can do it all,” said Call. “Defensively she brings it, she shoots the ball well. She is a solid all-around player.” 

 There is still ongoing competition to fill the 7th and 8th man spots which should provide some much-needed depth. “Right now the girls are working hard and competing to see who gets those minutes,” said Call. 

 The expectations have always been there for Colebrook, and this season is no different. “They know there is a lot of pressure on them from their fan base, parents, relatives, and alumni,” said Call. “They were a dominant group when they were in junior high. The expectations have been high for a long time.” 

 This is the last of the championship group from 2020, they know they have one more chance at another title. “The goal is to make it back to the Final Four and beyond,” said Call. “They want to keep the streak of success going.” 

 Sunapee returns one of the more seasoned rosters in the southern part of the state.

 Head coach Stephanie Larpenter is ready to put last season in the past. "It didn't end how we would have hoped," said Larpenter. 

 Molly Reed is the lone graduation loss for the Lakers who return 10 to the varsity roster this winter. 

 Senior Liz Tschudin has been a consistent force on the offensive end and hopes to have similar production this season. "Liz will be our floor general," said Larpenter. 

 Tschudin brings a strong arsenal offensively and with that alone can open up teammates for good looks with the attention she gets from opposing defenses. 

 Izzy Correa is a jack-of-all-trades for Sunapee. "She is a key component for us both offensively and defensively," said Larpenter. 

 Katelyn Claus and Jenna Caron will see big minutes in the paint this year. "I am expecting strong post-play from them," said Larpenter. 

 To be a successful team this year, it will start with effort for Sunapee. "Our key to success will be outworking every opponent we face." 

 This could be the year for Sunapee to get back into Final Four contention. "We are looking to make a deep run in the playoffs," said Larpenter.  

 This group has been together the past few years and has been a playoff threat when healthy, but this could be the year they take things a step further.

 The Groveton Eagles were right on the cusp of the top four last season, and look to be in that same conversation once again this season. 

 Head coach Tim Haskins has solid pieces returning, but depth is an early question. “The numbers are thinner, but I like who we have on the squad,” said Haskins. 

 All-state forward Marissa Kenison is primed for a big senior season. It has been incremental growth the past three seasons, but Kenison really put things together as a junior last season. 

 “Marissa had several 20-plus scoring nights last season and this year we are hoping we can get her to where that is the norm for her,” said Haskins. “She knows we are going to count on her and she will need to be ready to bring it every game. Teams will be gearing up to stop her.” 

 The size Kenison possesses on the inside is what gets her so many good looks, but it is her ability to shoot from the outside that makes her a real mismatch. The scouting report has certainly changed, but expect Kenison to put up big numbers once again this season. 

 With the loss of sharpshooter Emily Schafermeyer to graduation, the Eagles will need a consistent group effort offensively. 

 Senior Madison Ash is getting back into the swing of things after playing last year with a meniscus tear. Surgery has cleaned things up and Ash should be a big contributor to Groveton this year. 

 “She should have a nice year for us, especially with less discomfort,” said Haskins. Ash provides good defense and rebounding on a nightly basis. “She does a nice job of picking up the scrappy points off of offensive rebounds and fastbreaks.” 

 Delaney Whiting played important minutes as an eighth grader, and with a year of experience under her belt will step into the starting lineup for the Eagles. 

 “She showed a lot of flashes but also there were games she looked like an eighth grader,” said Haskins. “She played a lot this summer. Hopefully, we can get some consistent scoring out of her this year. She has a chance right off to get shots.” 

 Paige Lambert returns as the only junior on the team and will be a starting guard for Groveton. Rounding out the starting five will be senior Katherine Bushey who will see minutes at the forward spot. 

 Bushey, while undersized, has a good nose for the ball and does a nice job on the glass for the Eagles. “She gets a lot more rebounds than you would think for her height,” said Haskins. “She could surprise some teams scoring-wise as well.” 

 The North Country schedule is no joke, and Groveton will be right in the thick of things. “There are no easy nights off,” said Haskins. “We were right outside of the top four last year, and I think we can be at least there and play our way in.” 

 Two home games would be crucial as making the drive and playing in a tight gym with a great crowd would fare well for Groveton. 

 With teams moving divisions and a big graduation loss around all of Division IV, the Eagles have a chance to make a run this season. “Right now the attitude is good,” said Haskins. “We will get better as the year goes along as we figure out substitutions and what we can get out of new starters.” 

 The Newmarket Mules always seem to be in the mix, and this season should be no different for Meghan Averill’s squad. 

 Four seniors return from last year's quarterfinal team, and all four will have a great impact on the success of this year's squad. 

 Ella Gallion was sidelined for the soccer season but has been preparing for her last season on the court for the Mules. “She is such a consistent and solid player,” said Averill. “It has been exciting to see her development. She knows this is it.” 

 Defensively is where Gallion thrives, being the primary ball stopper for Newmarket. “She has great positioning on defense,” said Averill. “We want her to be confident in herself to make things happen on both ends.” 

 Keaghan Hayes and Harley Radi bring maturity and leadership. Hayes comes from a basketball family and has a great IQ for the game. Radi was injured most of last season and is excited to make an impact this year. 

 Lena Nicholson has developed a lot since she joined the Newmarket program. She is a mismatch nightmare for any team, and the Mules have started to see the opportunities they can create with her in the post. 

 “Our girls know how hard it is to guard her in practice, and they are realizing that it is just as hard for other teams to guard her as well,” said Averill. “We need to utilize her. She changes game plans for other teams. 

 The passing ability of Nicholson has improved as well. “She has improved in realizing when and where she needs to kick the ball out when the shot isn’t there,” said Averill. 

 Sophomore Jillian Long could take a jump this season. “She is always in the mix,” said Averill. “She is scrapping for rebounds and has good size now as a sophomore. Defensively as well, just always in the mix. We want her to be confident and look to attack.” 

 Junior Haiden Joe had a great fall in net for Newmarket, and the hope is her success transfers over to the court as well.

 Freshman Amaya Beckles has already made an immediate impact in the preseason. “She is a very confident player already,” said Averill. Beckles will see some time at the guard spot and should another layer to the Mules' offense. 

 Whenever you play Newmarket, you know it is going to be a grudge match. “Our sticking point is we have to defend, that is always our top priority,” said Averill. 

 If the offense can come along, Newmarket can be a tough matchup for anyone in the division. “Our identity will look different this year,” said Averill. “We are playing with more speed, hopefully, will be a new look for us. The players have been drinking the Kool-Aid. They have been taking in things and changing them. Things are starting to click, the little adjustments are coming together.” 

 Portsmouth Christian Academy is looking to build off of a 10-8 season a year ago.

 Year two for Katie Robertson should be another step in the right direction with four seniors leading the charge and a strong underclassmen group. “It is a good mix of experience and that new energy coming in,” said Robertson.

 Of that group are seniors Maddie West and Hannah Dion, who were the top two scoring options as juniors. West will be the lead guard while Dion will be a presence inside as a forward.

 “They both have stepped up as leaders this year,” said Robertson. “I have leadership underneath the hoop and beyond the three-point line.” 

 Amanda Leland brings versatility to the lineup and will be another featured offensive weapon. “I am hoping between the three of them they can guide the rest of the group,” said Robertson. “I want them to leave a legacy for the incoming group. They can start a good culture to pass on.” 

 Liahna Messier is a newcomer as a senior and has not played before, but early on has already been bringing a lot to the team. 

 Freshman Ava Buchanan is a player to keep an eye on for the Eagles. “She has been a strong ball player for several years,” said Robertson. “She is taking it all in and asking a lot of questions.” 

 Junior Ella Walsh should see an uptick in minutes this season. “I have been impressed with how vocal she has been in practice,” said Robertson. “She seems to have that hunger this year.” 

 The focus this season for PCA will be on playing team basketball. “We want a contribution from everyone,” said Robertson. “If everyone is on the same page we hope to be more than 10-8 at the end of the season.” 

 It will be a bit of a different look for Littleton this season, as it will be the first time in quite a while the Crusaders won’t have a senior on the roster. 

 There is inexperience on the roster, but if any coach can handle that it is Dale Prior, who is looking forward to a building season ahead. It is a unique season for me as a coach,” said Prior.  “Our goal every year is to improve, and if that is true in any season it is this one with the lack of experience we have.” 

 The underclassmen will be relied upon heavily, specifically Addison Hadlock and Ella Horsch, who made impacts as a freshman and eighth grader. “They both may not have been ready for varsity last year, but they really developed throughout the season,” said Prior. 

 Hadlock brings athleticism and a real presence on the inside for the Crusaders. “I thought she finished last year strong,” said Prior. “She needs to be our inside threat with her height offensively and defensively. Expecting double figures from her would be realistic.” 

 Scoring will be a must from Hadlock, as graduating Lauren McKee also graduated a huge chunk of their offense. “We will need her to stay out of foul trouble,” said Prior. “Addi does a great job of controlling the boards as well, especially on the defensive end.”

 Horsch has just been cleared to play, as she sustained a knee injury at the end of the summer which held her out of soccer. “She has progressed well,” said Prior. “I would think by the turn of the year that she is closer to 100 percent. Even her at 85 percent right now is big. The experience she got last year is critical.” 

 Horsch showed flashes last year but will need to be more of a complete player in her freshman season. Her explosiveness is still not back, but once it is that should help even more. 

“The one thing she is going to have to do is be more of an outside threat,” said Prior. “I think she will get more confidence as the season goes along. She will be more of an offensive threat.”

 Junior Lauryn Corrigan will be looked at as a leader for Littleton this season. She returns as the most seasoned player of the group and has been a part of big games her first two seasons. 

 “Her experience is key,” said Prior. “We need her to be a vocal leader and encourage her teammates. We have always had a senior in the position Lauryn is in now. The good thing is she can handle this, I am confident she can.” 

 The big thing for Corrigan this season will be generating offense. “Can we get her enough shots is the big question,” said Prior. “Last year she would go entire games and take just four shots. We need her to be a threat.” 

 Athleticism is a bright spot for Littleton. “We have athletes, I can say that consistently,” said Prior. One of those athletes is freshman Julieann Bromley. 

 “Julieann is the energizer bunny,” said Prior. “She has a battery that never dies. She will add a different perspective that we didn’t necessarily have last season.” 

 The Crusaders always seem to be competitive year in and year out, and the hope is this group can get to that point this season. 

 “We will take our lumps here and there, but everyone is in the same boat,” said Prior. “We want to be playing our best basketball in February and March.” 

 It has been a building process for Gorham the past few seasons, but things are starting to come together for head coach Joe Cassidy’s squad. “They have shown a mature IQ early on,” said Cassidy. 

 An 8-10 team a season ago, it was a hot start for Gorham that sizzled out towards the end of the season. The hope is that they can play a consistent brand of basketball night in and night out. 

 Madi Girouard and Sarah Godin have been with the program since they were 8th graders. The two took on a lot of scoring responsibility as sophomores last season, and come in this year much more fine-tuned and ready to lead. 

 “We know they are going to be our highest scorers,” said Cassidy. “Their skills and IQ are there, but the best thing they bring is leadership. They love the game and they lead by example.” 

 Girouard has facilitated the offense the last two seasons and her ability to shoot from deep opens up a lot for the Huskies. 

 Godin does a lot of her work on the inside and leads a strong interior defense that Cassidy sees being one of the Huskies' focal points this season. 

 The two can be a great one-two punch and will lead Gorham in a  lot of statistical categories this season. 

 Senior Jessica Burton is another key piece for Gorham. She is the type of player that brings a lot of grit and physicality. “She has stepped up as our leader this season,” said Cassidy. “Her touch and footwork have really developed. The defense, the hustle, she is a very scrappy and aggressive player.”

 Burton’s ability to rebound and the vision she has developed over the years, especially on the soccer field, have made her a good passer as well. “She can contribute a whole heck of a lot,” said Cassidy. 

 The sophomore class of Lily Gorban, Chaise Wade, and Addie Eastman all saw key reps as freshmen, and that year of experience should show this season. “All three can handle, pass, and all three are decent shooters as well,” said Cassidy. 

 It will be a team effort every night for Gorham. “It will take all five on the court at any given time for us to win basketball games,” said Cassidy. “Maddi and Sarah will lead the scoring, but we have a lot of girls who can pepper in 6-8 points a night.” 

 Defense has been the key for this team staying competitive the last few seasons, but now they can be a real threat on both ends of the court. “I think we are a balanced team that can be successful when we are in rhythm and communicating,” said Cassidy. “I think this Gorham team can be a deep playoff team. We all understand no one can take any game for granted.”

 Head coach Matt Swedberg is excited about the potential of this year’s Moultonborough Panther squad. 22 girls tried out, compared to just the 10 or 11 they had last season. 

 “The intensity level and willingness to push themselves is more evident,” said Swedberg. “A lot of that has to do with 22 girls coming out. Last year everyone was on varsity because of our numbers. There was that extra push to prove themselves and work for sports. Hopefully, that continues throughout the year.” 

 Seniors Kat Gleeson and Katie Velie are a source of foundation for the Panthers. “Those two will be critical pieces for us,” said Swedberg. 

 Gleeson has been a starter since she was a freshman and has continued to improve over the last three years. “She is a player that understands where I come from and what my expectations are,” said Swedberg. 

 Grit is something that Gleeson can provide on a nightly basis and is a good tone-setter. “She is an aggressive and scrappy kid,” said Swedberg. “Her offensive game has gotten better. Her handle and court vision have improved a lot. She is a big piece to the puzzle for us.” 

 Velie is described as an “overall talent in whatever sport she plays” by Swedberg. “She is an elusive kind of player. She has the ability to sneak up on people and next thing you know she has the ball in her hands and makes good things happen.” 

 Sadey Sherkanowski played for the first time last season and has become an impact player in her junior season with her ability to run the floor and get to the rim. 

 Charlotte Johnson will be sidelined with an ankle injury early on, but once she returns could make a great impact at the center spot. 

 Sophomore Makenna Eichhorn has shown flashes of potential early on and Tamlyn Whiting and Sammy Nagle will make contributions off the bench on a nightly basis. 

 Another reason for the early excitement has been the freshman class. “They won’t step on toes but they definitely have the drive to do well,” said Swedberg. “They will look at the banners on the walls and start talking about what ifs.” 

 Payton Bernow, Alicia Johnson, Madison Hart, and Lauren Grinavic should find themselves in the rotation this season. “All four are going to be a big part of the team I think,” said Swedberg. 

 Bernow brings a great physical style of play to the table. “Her presence will be huge for us,” said Swedberg. “She has a nice potential going forward.” 

 Johnson is another forward who will play a backup role off the bench. “She has a knack for balls around the rim,” said Swedberg. “Her ability to finish and her touch has developed a lot already.” 

 Hart will be a nice backup to Gleeson and Velie and be able to keep the level of play afloat. “She needs some development still, but putting her on varsity that development should come faster,” said Swedberg. 

 Grinavic will be a backup at the wing spot and has shown flashes of potential early on in the preseason.  

 The Panthers are a group filled with depth, something that is rare in Division IV. “We are a pretty well-rounded team,” said Swedberg. “If someone is hurt or gets in foul trouble, or if someone is not having consistent a night, as usual, I have people who can step in and fill those roles. We could be nine to ten deep on any given night.” 

 Defense is a point of emphasis for Swedberg, especially with the offense still coming along. “It always comes down to how well you put the ball in the basket,” said Swedberg. “I have a feeling we will be a team that gets six to eight points from multiple players. Our stress right now is defense, we have to have a good effort.” 

 The Panthers could surprise some people this year, but it will depend on the development of their young pieces and gelling together at the right time. “Our consistency will be critical,” said Swedberg. “There might be growing pains, there might be learning curves, but it all comes down to consistency.”  

 Hinsdale returns yet another young roster that was just narrowly knocked out of the first round by Newmarket last season. Nearly all of the 2021 championship roster has graduated, and the Pacers will flip the page to a new core to lead the way this season. 

 Head coach Terry Bonnette hopes his group will buy in on the defensive end in order to be successful. “We’re going to be young,” said Bonnette. “We will need to create havoc and score off our defense.”

 This has been the mindset Hinsdale has had for the past few seasons, but it will be even more important with the scoring they graduated last year from Megan Roberts. 

 Sliding into the go-to scoring role will be junior Addy Nardolillo, who has been a part of the program since she was in 8th grade. The efficient scoring wing will see an uptick in production and see a lot more looks from opposing defenses. 

 “I am expecting her to take charge on both offense and defense,” said Bonnette. “She will step into her own this year.” 

 Point guard Brooke Pagach will take on much more responsibility running the offense. “We are looking for her to get to the basket when she can and look to set up her teammates when she can,” said Bonnette. 

 Sharpshooter Aleah Owen has an opportunity to make big contributions this season. “We will need her to play a big role,” said Bonnette. “She will need to be our shooter from the outside and we will also need her to penetrate offensively. She started to do that last year and has been doing it in practice. We are hoping that carries over to the games.” 

 Freshmen Daylen Dupuis and Gabbie Frain should be impact players right away. Dupuis is still recovering from a torn ACL but is expected to step into the rotation when she returns. 

 Fran will find herself in the post for the Pacers as a threat on both ends of the court. 

 8th grade Reese Howard will be another name to watch. “I think she can contribute some this year too,” said Bonnette. 

 Daytona Boyd, Lily Briggs, and Lilee Taylor all return after seeing some floor time last season. “I expect those three to play a bigger roles for us this season,” said Bonnette. 

 It will be a bit of a youth movement for Hinsdale, but that youth possess some real talent and should hopefully help produce positive results. “The girls will need playing time together,” said Bonnette. “I am hoping we can gel and come together and play the defense we need to. If we can, we should be competitive.” 

 The Woodsville Engineers will be on the younger side this season, something that hasn’t been the case for quite some time for head coach Tori Clough. “It will be a building year,” said Clough. “It will look a bit different because of our youth, but we are working towards keeping the same foundations.” 

 A Final Four team a season ago, Woodsville graduates 4 key seniors in Mackenzie Kingsbury, Leah Kull, Emily Farr, and Maddie Roy. All brought experience and leadership to the table, but this year's group certainly has been preparing for their moment. 

 Senior Aliza Boutin will step into a much bigger role this season for the Engineers at the forward spot. “She played well with Emily Farr last year,” said Clough. The forward spot has always been a crucial piece to the Engineers' success, and Boutin gets an opportunity to fill that void Farr leaves behind. 

 Brianna Youngman hopes to provide a good boost of defense while Abby Crocker can provide some offense for Woodsville this year. The pair should work well off one another. 

 Jaylah Hogue could be a bright spot for Woodsville and a bit of a mystery to opponents. “She didn’t see much time last year, but we are hoping she can fill the point guard role for us,” said Clough. 

 Eliza Wagstaff returns as the lone starter from last year’s group and will be a top-scoring option for Woodsville. “I am hoping she can step up for us,” said Clough. 

 Paige Royer had a great summer heading into her sophomore season and Clough thinks she can make an impact right away this year. “She worked with me all summer,” said Clough. “I am excited to see what she can do.” 

 It may take time for the Engineers to find a rhythm early on, but you always know you will get a defensive battle when you go up to Woodsville. “I am hoping we can be competitive,” said Clough. “Right now, we are just focused on getting better every day.”

 The Farmington Tigers will have a bit of a different look this season. Head coach Dawn Weeks is excited about what lies ahead. “We’re young,” said Weeks. “We’re working hard, trying new things, and building leaders.” 

 Weeks is looking for someone to take control and take charge. “That is the challenge I have issued to our younger kids,” said Weeks. “Who is going to do it? Someone will have to step into that role.” 

 That player could be sophomore Madison Ricker, who led the team in scoring as a freshman. “Look for her to step up and be a leader,” said Weeks. “She has the ability, has the knowledge, and is a good teammate. She will have to grow comfortable in that role, and has been challenged to do so.” 

 Ricker can run the point and is strong on the ball. Her defensive ability as well is a great boost for the Tigers. 

 Her backcourt mate Makayla Lapanne brings a similar skillset which makes the pair one to watch for. “She did a great job on the perimeter this summer,” said Weeks. “She finally found that rhythm. I hope she can lead in that aspect. If she starts shooting and it starts going everyone else will loosen up.” 

 Senior Sydney Cocarus brings a great defensive mentality to the group. “She is just wiry,” said Weeks. “I am expecting some things out of her.” 

 Callie Rocheleau has been riddled with injuries the past two seasons and hasn’t had an opportunity to play at the varsity level until this season. “She is a good shooter and is smart,” said Weeks. “She will be a good contributor.” 

 Freshman Anna Cardinal will see some time at the varsity level and should make an impact when she sees the floor. “She has a great shot and a high basketball IQ,” said Weeks. “

  Ryleigh Hogan is another bright spot for the Tigers’ young core. “She will shine a bit more this year,” said Weeks. “She has a lot of potential to do amazing things in the next few years.”

 Farmington won’t be the same Farmington of old, but they should be in the mix like they always are. “We might look different, but we might surprise some people,” said Weeks. “It will be interesting.” 

  The Lisbon Panthers hope to take advantage of what should be a wide-open division this season. With only 41 girls in the entire school, the roster this season will consist of 12 girls, “which is awesome,” according to head coach Brent Covell.

 “We’re fighting an uphill battle but it is what it is. We’re inexperienced, but we are returning seven girls which I am excited about.” 

 Sara Brown led the way in the scoring department last season, and with her departure to graduation, the Panthers will turn to Kaitlyn Clark to be a go-to scoring option. 

 “She will have to pick up the scoring with Sara gone, and she certainly can do that,” said Covell. “She had three games in the high 20’s last season.”

 Senior Kora Sibley decided to come back this season and should make an instant impact. “She will be a huge help,” said Covell. “She is another guard who will put points on the board for us.” 

 Covell is making it an emphasis to get the ball into the post when possible. The recipient of those entry passes will be Linnea Trudel. “She is a beast,” said Covell. The size and mismatch opportunity she provides is something Lisbon will look to exploit. 

 Freshman Meredith Barnes will be another player who can handle the ball and break pressure for the Panthers. Joining her as another backcourt option will be seventh grader Arya Kimball, who has impressed early on. 

 “I am excited about her potential,” said Covell. “She has massive dribbling skills and can shoot the ball. Her maturtiy and strength will come."

 Looking at the schedule ahead, Covell feels his group can be competitive. “I think we can compete with anybody. With the way Division IV is, I think we will be able to sneak up on some teams and get some W’s.” 

 The Profile Patirots hope to be in the mix in the North Country. Head coach Reed Weekes is excited to have all of last year’s roster back. “I really liked the way we were playing towards the end of last year,” said Weekes. “I am looking forward to building off of that.” 

 The Patriots just narrowly missed the playoffs after a late season surge. The hope is that they can have a firm position locked up before the last game of the season. “I think we can probably be around the middle of the pack,” said Weekes. “There are obviously good programs in the North Country, but it is a lot more wide open this year.”

 Junior Mya Brown headlines the key returners for the Patriots as she is ready for her fifth year at the varsity level, having been apart of the team since she was in 7th grade. “I am hoping she takes the next step,” said Weekes. “She has been a key contributor for us the last few years.” 

 Brown is an all-around athlete and brings a good scoring punch and toughness for this Profile squad. 

 Maddie Koehler is set to begin her 4th season with the varsity squad, being on the team since she was in 8th grade. “We are hoping she can take the next step on the defensive side,” said Weekes. 

 The development of Morgan Presby will be one to watch for Progile this season. “She has been working a lot this offseason,” said Weekes. “I expect a big season out of her. Not a lot of people will be expecting that. I’m hoping she can become that secondary scorer behind Mya. She is definitely capable of that.” 

 It has been a slow build for this Profile program the last few years, and this is the year Weekes is hoping it can come all together. 

 “Profile basketball for many years now hasn’t been the greatest,” said Weekes. “This year I think we can take that next step in being a contender in the North Country. I hope that towards the end of the season we have a chance at a home playoff game. Any given night, anybody can win up here. It is not going to be easy, but we are excited for the challenge.”

 After a 5-13 season a year ago and just narrowly missing out on the playoffs, head coach Gabe Mosca is excited about what his group can do in his second year at the helm at Epping.

 The Blue Devils return their entire roster and have been able to get right into the swing of things early in the preseason. “It is helpful being in my second year and having everyone back,” said Mosca. “We have nine to ten other voices who know what we are doing.” 

 The McAniff twins, Laney and Mae, were the two leading scorers for an Epping team that went through some growing pains on offense. “I would love to get out of the 28-30 points per game range and start to move that up a little bit,” said Mosca. 

 Both Laney and Mae are strong athletes who should turn things up a level on both ends of the floor as juniors. They have been top options for this team since they were underclassmen, and all of that experience they have gained so far should show this season. 

 Taking care of the basketball will be another point of emphasis for the Blue Devils. They were right in the mix of playoff contention a season ago, so the little things will come into play for the playoff hopefuls this season. 

 “We have talked about the inefficiencies in basketball,” said Mosca. “If we can be more efficient this year then all the better.”

 A player who has been a bright spot early on is freshman Rachel Mazzone, who joined the varsity squad halfway through the season last year. The 5’10” forward should make an impact in the post on the offensive end. “She already has varsity experience which is a luxury,” said Mosca. 

 With a more experienced group that is comfortable in the system Mosca is putting together, the Blue Devils should find themselves in playoff contention. “I think the playoffs are a reasonable goal,” said Mosca. “A lot of games last year we only went five to six deep. We want to go nine to eight deep this year. Hopefully, we have a little more depth to roll with the punches.” 

 One of the best stories in the state last year was Pittsburg-Canaan. A team that had been slowly building for many years finally put it all together and made a run to the Final Four. 

 They brought Derryfield to the brink, narrowly losing in overtime to the eventual runner-ups. That story will have quite a few revisions this year, as they are down nine players from last season's roster. 

 “It is a pretty thin and young roster,” said head coach Matt Jordan. Jacqueline Giroux and Saidy Placey are the two lone returning starters. 

 Giroux will be the primary defender for the Yellow Jackets. “She is capable of guarding players bigger than she is from the guard position,” said Jordan. 

 Placey was more of a third or fourth option at times last season, but will now be the go-to scorer from opening night. “It will be a matter of adjusting to that role as the primary offensive threat,” said Jordan. “She will have to pick up a lot of the scoring and is more than capable of doing it.” 

 The experience gained in last year’s run will prove to be valuable for Giroux and Placey. “They know the hard work it takes to be successful,” said Jordan. “They will have to be patient with their younger teammates and realize we are a work in progress.”

 Sophomores Leahana Haynes and Janessa Hodge will step into starting roles this winter. Haynes will be a defensive presence in the middle of the Yellow Jacket zone defense and Hodge will provide a low post presence on offense. 

 Freshman Sienna Grondin will find herself in the rotation early on. “She has the chance to be a real force underneath rebounding the ball and getting junk points,” said Jordan. “I am not sure there is a girl stronger than her in Division IV, even as a freshman.” 

 Grondin was the starting goalkeeper for a Pittsburg-Canaan team that had a terrific second-half surge, something Jordan’s team is hoping to replicate on the court. “Our soccer team was young too, I am hoping we can have similar growth,” said Jordan. 

 Despite being a new-look team, this is a group that hopes to be competitive once again this season. “I still think a top-eight finish is obtainable for us,” said Jordan. “It all comes down to development.” 

 The Pittsfield Panthers return to action at the varsity level this winter. Head coach Logan LaRoche has been pleased with how his young roster has adapted early on in practice. 

 “Our practices have been centered around learning basic basketball concepts, schemes, set plays, and different strategies,” said LaRoche. “They are a really good group of girls.” 

 Last year the Panthers played a JV season, and progress was certainly made. “There was definitely a lot of excitement built towards the end of last year,” said LaRoche. “Things started to click.” 

 Captains Briar Bell and Ryan Wood have been through a lot with the program. “They’ve been on varsity teams as middle schoolers, been on JV teams as high schoolers, they’ve seen it all,” said LaRoche. “The character of those two, they have such a good attitude, they really want to compete.”

 Bell is a floor general at the point guard position and Wood brings a lot to the table defensively. “Wherever the ball goes she is there,” said LaRoche. “They both do a good job leading by example. We are lucky to have those two.”

 Addie Clark, Sidney Provencal, and Ashley Clark will see a lot of floor time in what should be a big development year for the underclassmen. “Those three are the present and future of the team,” said LaRoche. “Addie and Sidney are wings and Ashley will come off the bench and play every position. Collectively they have worked extremely hard.” 

 It will be an adjustment getting acclimated to the varsity level, but the building blocks are there for Pittsfield. 

 “What I am booking forward to the most is our current group learning the faster pace of the varsity game in comparison to JV,” said LaRoche. “Every week is a new week and clean slate, and every week is an opportunity for us to win a basketball game. We want to continuously build and get the right behavior for a varsity basketball team."

 Wilton-Lyndeborough will return to the varsity schedule this season after building the program back up at the JV level. Head coach Tom Crowley is excited for his group to take the court. 

 “We have a diverse mix,” said Crowley. The team consists of four seniors, one junior, one sophomore, three freshmen, and one eighth grader. 

  “Everyone is getting time,” said Crowley. The practices have been described as competitive as the team looks to fill the 4th and 5th spots in the starting lineup. “We’ve been competing with each other and it has been good for us. We will need everyone to contribute.” 

 Seniors Bri Fish, Ryleigh Smith, and Zoey Hall will be key contributors for Wilton-Lyndeborough this season. “I am expecting big things out of them,” said Crowley. The experience and leadership they bring will help this group navigate through the season. 

 Sophomore Kelsey Crouse will be a spark plug for the Warriors. “She is a scrappy defensive player,” said Crowley. 

 It may be a bit for this team to find their groove with the change in pace and speed of the game, but they are up for the challenge. “I look forward to it,” said Crowley. “I think my girls can actually compete out there. We have been looking forward to the varsity schedule.”

  Head coach Mark Dionne is excited to get year two underway at Franklin. “We are young again,” said Dionne. “The team chemistry is very good this year.” 

 Key returners for the Golden Tornadoes include Brooke Bedard, Scarlett Martin, and Savaughna Solcum. “Brooke is our only senior and I am expecting a lot of leadership out of her,” said Dionne. “Between the three I am hoping they can lead the team.” 

 Franklin will play more of a southern schedule, and Dionne is excited to see some new opponents. “We will be able to match up with some of these teams and give them some decent games,” said Dionne.

 Franklin finished with two wins last year, and that is a number they are hoping to improve upon. “I am hoping to be able to stay more competitive throughout the games and throughout the season,” said Dionne. “We are going to have a better season this year.” 

 Mount Royal hopes to continue moving the program in the right direction. Head coach Derek Tremblay is happy with the progression that has been made by his group. “I imagine we will be more competitive this year.” 

 The roster will consist of 10 players, one senior, three juniors, two freshmen, and the rest middle schoolers. “We have a lot of participation for the smallest school in the division,” said Tremblay. 

 Katherine McMenaman will start the year sidelined due to an injury sustained during soccer season. McMenaman was the leading scorer for Mount Royal last season, and the hope is she can be back sooner than later. “If she comes back and is healthy, she will want to contribute,” said Tremblay.

 Katherine’s twin sister Claire should be ready to contribute from the start of the season and Ava Meyer brings athleticism to the team right away. “Those three have basketball experience,” said Tremblay. 

 It will be about the small victories for Mount Royal this season, as they continue to get better and build the program up. “We have a schedule we are excited about,” said Tremblay. “It will give us an opportunity to develop our players.” 

 Victoria Caiado and Amanda Wolanyk will take over the Mascenic program as co-coaches this season. 

 “We have a good group of girls,” said Caiado and Wolanyk. Both Caiado and Wolanyk have been impressed with their group’s preparedness early on, and the team has adapted well to listening to two voices. “It works out well with our different sets of skills.” 

 The team consists of great individual and team-oriented skills. “Each individual player can show great skill,” said Caiado and Wolanyk. “They all show progression in their own way. They are a unique group.” 

 Practice has been competitive, but once game time comes it will be interesting to see what the Vikings can put together. “We are both new coaches, so taking it one game at a time will be important,” said Caiado and Wolanyk. “We made the point we wanted to work as a team, everyone is lifting each other up. We are excited to see them in game situations.” 

 

Pre-Season First Team All-State

Ariana Lord of Colebrook 

Elizabeth Tschudin of Sunapee

Marissa Kenison of Groveton 

Maddie West of Portsmouth Christian Academy 

Addy Nardolillo of Hinsdale

 

Pre-Season Second Team All-State

Madison Ricker of Farmington

Lena Nicholson of Newmarket

Madi Girouard of Gorham 

Sierra Riff of Colebrook 

Mya Brown of Profile 

 

Players to Watch: Addison Hadlock and Ella Horsch of Littleton, Izzy Correa of Sunapee, Sarah Godin of Gorham, Eliza Wagstaff of Woodsville, Emma McKeage of Colebrook, Laney McAniff and Mae McAniff of Epping, Ella Gallion of Newmarket, Saidy Placey and Jacqueline Giroux of Pittsburg-Cannan, Hannah Dion of PCA, Kat Gleeson of Moultonborough, Katerine McMenaman of Mount Royal, Brooke Pagach and Aleah Owen of Hinsdale, Makayla Lapanne of Farmington, and Kaitlyn Clark of Lisbon