New Faces in Vermont High School Football as Season Kicks Off

This year marks an exciting time for high school football in Vermont as the 2024 season is set to begin on August 29 after a week of preseason practices that started on August 12. Several schools in the region have brought on new head coaches, refreshing the coaching landscape in anticipation of a competitive season.

In southern Vermont, the town of Poultney welcomes Andrew Breting as the new head coach. He steps in following the retirement of Dave Capman, who led the team for an impressive 42 years. Breting, who previously coached in Poultney, understands the community’s passion for football. “They take their football very seriously. The whole town really gets behind the football team,” he shared. The Poultney squad will kick off their season on the road against Woodstock on August 30.

Over in U-32, Chris Cadorette, a lifelong Vermonter and dedicated member of the coaching team since 2015, has fulfilled his dream of becoming head coach at his alma mater. He expressed his commitment to the community, stating, “Football has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember.” U-32 will be facing North Country in Week 1 on August 29.

Transitioning from his previous role as offensive coordinator at North Country, John Guebara has taken over after Lonnie Wade stepped down. Guebara aims to maintain the program’s momentum after the school won its first title since 1997. “I took over just to continue the continuity of the program,” he said.

With changes also at Fair Haven, Adam Perry, a 1997 alumnus, has been elevated to head coach after years on the staff. He noted, “I’ve been around Fair Haven football since I was a little guy.” The Slaters look to repeat their successful run from last season as they head to Windsor for their first game on August 31.

Reid Rando is back in Vermont, taking his first head coaching position after successful stints elsewhere. He noted that it “feels like home” to return. Rando’s Mount Mansfield team will host Burlington/South Burlington for their season opener on August 31.

Lastly, Dustin Rock, a graduate of Milton, now leads his own alma mater. He remarked that it was a “boyhood dream” to take this role, as he aims to shape the future of the program following last season’s challenges. Milton will kick off their season against Colchester on August 30.

As the Vermont high school football scene gears up for another dynamic season, all eyes will be on these new coaches and their teams as they strive to make their mark.