Coach: Ted Tibbetts (fourth year)

Conference: West Class: C

Last year: 2-6

Returning players: Seniors — Nick Cote (slot/DB), Will Bernier (slot), Adam Mocciola (QB/DB), Robbie Porter (FB), Tony Benedict (T/DT); Juniors — Cody Kalinka (G), Patrick Jacques (QB/RB/DB), Connor Greenleaf (G/NG), Alex Thibeault (C/LB), John Fossett (DE).

Key losses: Everett Bertrand (RB/KR), Jake Simard (G/LB), Tanner Marston (C/LB), Austin Davis (RB/WR).

Promising newcomers: Sophomores — Andrew Demers (FB/LB), Zach Hatch (T/DT)

Season outlook: Poland has knocked on the door each year of Tibbetts’ tenure, missing the playoffs by a whisker after knocking on the door against one of the top teams in the league. Shutout wins over Lake Region and Gray-New Gloucester and a last-minute loss to regional finalist Spruce Mountain were the motivation that fueled offseason workouts. The Knights won their division in summer 7-on-7 drills and should have a good crop of playmakers working behind all-conference lineman Benedict. Multi-sport athletes have tasted success in other endeavors this past year, and the coach hopes that experience will pay dividends in some of the close contests.