- Dale Duff Reporting ([email protected])
College football is coming back to Castine. Maine Maritime Academy announced this morning that after an indefinite suspension in August of 2020, the football program will restart with a sub-varsity program this year and in 2024.
In 2025 MMA will enter the Commonwealth Coast Conference with a full 10-game schedule. The CCC already includes two Maine schools, Husson University in Bangor and the University of New England in Biddeford.
“We are proud to welcome students from across Maine and America to join in the rich tradition of Mariner Football. This is an exciting time. As we re-start the program there will be once-in-a-lifetime opportunities to participate at the college level and be part of our next chapter to success while earning a world class degree leading to a high-paying career in a growing market. I am proud of the alumni support and Alfond Foundation who made this program possible, we are grateful that they share our vision for the future of athletics at Maine Maritime.” Jerry Paul, President, Maine Maritime Academy (MMA Press Release)
Fundraising to restart the football program back in September and $562,000 was raised to cover 75% of the unbudgeted startup costs. The Harold Alfond Foundation contributed $250,000 to the effort.
“The Board of the Harold Alfond Foundation is pleased to support Maine Maritime Academy’s efforts to bring football back to its campus. More importantly, the reinstatement of football at the Academy will enhance the number of Maine students who wish to earn a degree from Maine Maritime Academy while continuing to play football in college.” Gregory Powell, CEO and President, Harold Alfond Foundation. (MMA Press Release)
The school has opened a search to hire a new head coach, followed be a search for two coordinator positions.
