The Skowhegan River Hawks enter the new season as the reigning Class A North field hockey champions, a title they have held for the past year and hope to defend against a competitive slate of opponents.
A Fresh Coaching Perspective
At the helm is Gina Davis, who takes over from longtime architect Paula Doughty, the coach who steered the program to 20 state championships over 44 seasons.
Davis, a Skowhegan native who starred at Boston College before turning to officiating in Maine, brings a player‑first mindset and a deep familiarity with the community that has supported the program for decades.
The squad returns 11 seniors, a core that has weathered the highs and lows of high school competition, and they describe their bond as a family forged through shared history.
Their philosophy centers on teamwork, with each player emphasizing how collective effort outweighs individual talent and how the group’s unity has become a competitive edge.
The season opens with a home match against Oxford Hills on September 3 at 4 p.m., a rivalry that promises early insight into the team’s chemistry and readiness for the campaign ahead.
Coach Davis says the objective is to translate the experience of a recent state‑title loss into a stronger, more cohesive campaign, trusting that the seniors’ leadership will guide the way.
Fans can expect a fast‑paced, disciplined style as the River Hawks aim to defend their crown and extend their legacy in the coming weeks.