The most obvious change in the Mt. Abram boys’ basketball program this season is at the top.

Heath Cowan takes over for Trevis Knapp, bringing experience and a proven track record with him. Cowan led the girls’ programs at Skowhegan and Gardiner prior to a one-year stint as a boys’ assistant at Lawrence.

He inherits a program that hasn’t tasted much success in the past decade, including only a three-win season a year ago. The first step for Cowan likely will be installing his preferred system, which features the running game and pressure defense.

Those qualities will be of increased importance for the team that doesn’t wield much size in the paint. Dyer and Walker will be counted upon to make up for the loss of Withee’s scoring presence.

The early schedule is a mixed bag, with Carrabec and Telstar out of the gate before Mt. Abram faces MVC powers Boothbay and Dirigo in a span of six days. Gaininbg some confidence in the early games is crucial.

In an interesting twist, Cowan will be coaching against his son, Ty, who is a senior at Madison. The teams meet on Dec. 18 and Jan. 15.

Coach: Heath Cowan (first year)

Last year’s record: 3-15

Returning players: Seniors — Tristen Dyer, Quinton Hanna, Bryson Walker; Juniors — Luke Romanoski; Sophomore — Danny Luce.

Key losses: Arthur Ryan, Sol Fast, Amos Withee.

Promising newcomers: Senior — Logan Boyce; Juniors — Finley Mackay, Seth Thomas, Hunter York; Sophomores — Trevor Chaput, Riley Davenport, Glendon Howard, Carl Trafton.