The Hillsboro-Deering High School Hillcats football team made history on November 15, 2025, by winning their first state championship in program history. The team achieved a remarkable comeback, defeating the Mascoma Valley Royals 34-20 in the Division IV State Championship. This victory marks the first state title for Hillsboro-Deering in any sport since 1995.
The atmosphere at Hillsboro-Deering High School was electric leading up to the championship game. Students, teachers, and community members rallied behind the team, eager to see the Hillcats compete for glory. Senior running back Robert King, who has been a cornerstone of the team’s success, expressed his gratitude for the support, stating, “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.”
In the match-up, the Hillcats faced a formidable opponent in the No. 2 seed, the Mascoma Valley Royals, who also entered the game with a record of 7-1. The Hillcats, who had an impressive season with a record of 7-1 overall and 7-0 in their division, found themselves down 20-6 early in the second quarter. Despite a strong start from the Royals, which included three long touchdown drives, the Hillcats were determined to rally.
King ignited the Hillcats’ offense with a 60-yard touchdown run, their only score in the first quarter. As the momentum shifted, Dan Richard, another senior running back, contributed significantly with a 23-yard touchdown run, bringing the score to 20-13. Richard, who has only played football for three years, credited King for his development as a player, highlighting their teamwork and dedication.
The momentum shifted dramatically in the second half. The Hillcats unleashed a powerful offensive strategy, culminating in a grueling 80-yard touchdown drive that consumed the entire third quarter. Senior quarterback Joshuwa Perron connected with tight end Chase Owen for a 10-yard touchdown pass, narrowing the gap to 20-19 after a missed extra point.
The Royals, who had been on the sidelines for an extended period due to the Hillcats’ long drive, struggled to regain their rhythm. The Hillcats capitalized on their fatigue, forcing crucial turnovers. A pivotal moment came when junior defensive back Micah Adams intercepted a pass, putting Hillsboro-Deering in a prime position to take control of the game.
With the score still close, King broke free for a stunning 52-yard touchdown run that finally put the Hillcats in the lead. Richard followed up with a successful two-point conversion, extending their advantage to 27-20. The Hillcats’ defense then stepped up once more, preventing any further scoring from the Royals.
Richard sealed the victory with a second touchdown run, bringing the final score to 34-20. King finished the game with an impressive 208 rushing yards and two touchdowns, while Richard added 81 yards and two touchdowns of his own.
Head coach Jay Wood praised his team’s resilience and commitment, stating, “This is the 12th year of football in the community, and it wasn’t easy to get in. Now there’s a banner they can never forget about.” He emphasized the legacy this championship creates for future generations of players.
As the final seconds ticked away, jubilant fans celebrated the Hillcats’ historic win, marking a monumental achievement for the school and the town of Hillsboro. The victory not only fulfills a long-standing aspiration for the football program but also unites the community in pride and accomplishment.
