The Hillsboro-Deering Hillcats football team made history on November 15, 2025, by winning their first state championship with a thrilling 34-20 victory over the Mascoma Valley Royals. This landmark achievement marks the school’s first championship in any sport since 1995, igniting a wave of celebration throughout the community.
The atmosphere at Hillsboro-Deering High School was electric in the days leading up to the Division IV State Championship. Students, teachers, and staff rallied behind their football team, eager to witness a momentous occasion. Senior running back Robert King, who had been a pivotal figure in the team’s journey, expressed his gratitude for the support: “How can you not go out when they do so much for you in school and out of school and go win it? I couldn’t have asked for a better ending.”
The Hillcats entered the game as the top seed with a record of 7-1, while the Royals also boasted a 7-1 record as the second seed. The first half was a challenge for Hillsboro-Deering, as they fell behind 20-6 following a series of successful drives by Mascoma, including three long touchdown plays. King managed to score a 60-yard touchdown in the first quarter, but it was clear the team needed to regroup.
Second Half Surge Leads to Victory
The turning point came in the second half. Hillsboro-Deering’s offense executed a meticulous 80-yard, 19-play drive that consumed the entire third quarter. Senior quarterback Joshuwa Perron capped off this drive with a touchdown pass to senior tight end Chase Owen. Despite a missed extra point, the score narrowed to 20-19, igniting hopes for a comeback.
With momentum shifting, the Hillcats’ defense took charge. A critical fumble by Mascoma during a deep punt forced the Royals to concede possession. Seizing the opportunity, King sprinted for a 52-yard touchdown, giving Hillsboro-Deering their first lead of the game. Dan Richard converted a two-point attempt, bringing the score to 27-20.
Richard, who rushed for 81 yards and two touchdowns, credited King for his development as a player. “You just can’t get down on yourself. You have to believe in your teammates,” he said. The duo’s performance was instrumental in overcoming a challenging first half.
The Hillcats’ defense, which had allowed only 14 points in their regular-season matchup against Mascoma, stepped up once again. Junior defensive back Micah Adams made a key interception, thwarting a potential scoring drive by the Royals.
As the final minutes ticked away, Richard added a second touchdown with just 3:43 remaining, sealing the game at 34-20. King finished the match with an impressive 208 yards on 22 carries, while Richard complemented the attack with his two touchdowns.
A Legacy for the Community
Head coach Jay Wood reflected on the significance of this victory for the team and the community. “This is the 12th year of football in the community, and you know what? Now there’s a banner they can never forget about. It’s going to be sitting on that wall,” he stated. Wood emphasized the importance of building a legacy, hoping for continued success in the program’s future.
As fans celebrated in the stands, the Hillcats’ victory resonated far beyond the football field. The achievement represents a culmination of hard work, determination, and community spirit, marking a new chapter in Hillsboro-Deering’s athletic history. The Hillcats have not only secured a championship title but also inspired future generations of athletes.
