The Thornton Academy varsity football team was recognized Monday by the Saco City Council for winning the Class A Football State Championship.

The Golden Trojans beat Portland 24-14 on Nov. 18, 2023, earning the team’s sixth state title since 2012. The team was led by coach Kevin Kezal.

The football team was acknowledged by Mayor Jodi MacPhail on Monday, who mentioned every player by name. On behalf of the City Council, she congratulated the players for their hard work and dedication to the sport.

“The community is proud of you,” she said.

MacPhail, a 1989 Thornton Academy graduate, shared some memories of the football team from her time at the school.

“Guys, this is your story,” said MacPhail to the young athletes. “Cherish it, remember it, and remember to tell it.”

The team then gathered with MacPhail and the City Council for a group photo.

Thornton Academy is located at 438 Main St., Saco. Founded in 1811, it is a co-educational, private boarding and day school serving students in grades six through twelve. Thornton has private pay students as well as publicly funded students who attend through contracts with local school departments.

Saco Bay News Publisher Liz Gotthelf can be reached at newsdesk@sacobaynews.com.

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