Matt DiFilippo's blog

Some highlights from a very strange Friday and Saturday in high school football:

This year, the Maine Principals’ Association went back to the 50/50 rule, meaning the top half of teams in each class are guaranteed to make the playoffs.

I keep hoping we’re not really this bad.

Unfortunately, the records show we are.

Mt. View sophomore forward Mercedes Reynolds came up with her own incentive program to keep her from fouling with her stick when the Mustangs are in the opponent’s circle.

Skowhegan is not only the eight-time defending state field hockey champion in Class A, but for a while, the Indians also had the best Web site of any team around.

In 2003, I was in Readfield when John Bapst broke its 41-game losing streak in football. Five years later, John Bapst won a state title.

Oakland native Nellie Poulin, who played field hockey at Messalonskee High School in 2001 and 2002, is now starring at Providence College.

A few summer field hockey notes, since we're all hoping the weather will be better in the fall:

Skowhegan made a wonderful run to the Class A softball state championship game. The Indians return everyone from their starting lineup except for left fielder Breanna Ames, who hit sixth.