Class A

Edward Little has nearly a dozen veterans returning and is ready to roll this season. The EL boys’ and girls’ teams appear solid in the jumping and distance events. Coach Calvin Hunter said hard work will be the key to EL’s success in Class A. But the Red Eddies will be on the lookout for cross-town rival Lewiston, especially the boys’ team, which features a handful of strong distance runners.

The Blue Devils’ girls’ team should also have success in the distance events and some of the sprint competitions. First-year coach Jackson Nadeau will be at the helm for both teams. He believes the key to Lewiston’s success will be newcomers who step up and fill a handful of voids.

Defending state champion Scarborough will again be the team to beat in Class A. As usual, Brunswick and Mt. Ararat are expected to be their competitive selves, and, of course, Bangor will always make it interesting, especially in the jumping.

Class B

Gray-New Gloucester coach Todd Mercer will be the first to tell you the Western Maine Conference is extremely competitive. With York always in the hunt, the Patriots — and the rest of Class B — are always looking over their shoulders for the Wildcats. According to Mercer, if Sacopee Valley enters the league, it will definitely shake things up in both the boys’ and girls’ competitions.

Poland coach Kristin Ross points out that this is a rebuilding year for the Knights and is hoping all the new faces rise to the challenge.