RSU 56 has decided to disband the varsity football team for the remainder of the 2019 season. This decision came after the athletic director, superintendent of schools and board chair heard from the football coaches that the current roster poses safety risks for our students. Dirigo High School began the football season with a limited roster and has experienced injuries that have further depleted that roster. The football coaches are confident that the current roster could safely play a JV schedule for the remainder of the school year. Superintendent Doyen noted, “Safety is our first priority.” Provided that there is sufficient student interest at Dirigo High School, Jess McGreevey, Athletic Director, will petition the MPA for a waiver so that Dirigo High School might move to an 8-man team for the 2020 football season.
UPDATE AS OF 9/13/19 -
It is important to note that a false rumor has been spreading that the move to disband varsity football was somehow connected to the budget. The proposed 2019-20 budget has funds to support a varsity football program. RSU 56 has every intention of supporting a varsity program; the only reason it was disbanded this year was due to safety concerns.
RSU 56 is excited to report that it appears we will be able to field a JV football team as enough players have indicated that they will continue to play this year. RSU 56 will petition the MPA to allow us to move to a varsity 8-man team for next season.