Coach: Doug Gilbert (19th year)

Conference: Mid-State League; Class: C

Last year’s results: Mid-State League champions, Class C regional champions, second in Class C state meet

Returning letter-winners: Seniors — Jesse Hutchinson (16o), Julian Baldinelli (182), Gavin Sanders (170), Jason Baldinelli (215), Torey Barnett (285); Sophomores — Gus Brown (126), Griffyn Smith (113).

Key losses: Misty Steward (112), Reilley Lombardi (132), Brett Whittemore (152), Thomas Barnett (160), D.J. Webber (170), Nelson Pepin (182), Alex Snowman (195), Zack White (220), Cliff Boynton (285).

Promising newcomers: Sophomore — Josh Mostofizaden (152); Freshmen — Hunter White (119), Bryce Whittemore (132), Tucker Barnett (138), Ivan Luu (145), Jon Flagg (106).

Season outlook: The Cougars are extremely young but talented. Smith was a state champion at 106 pounds a year ago. Hutchinson, Sanders, Brown and Julian Baldinelli have all reached the championship or consolation round at past state meets. Whittemore won nearly 100 matches in middle school and is typical of the skill level in the freshman class. Dirigo will benefit from a rugged schedule and be poised to make a run at the league and state titles.

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