The Hillsboro-Deering Hillcats football team achieved a historic milestone on November 15, 2025, by winning their first state championship with a 34-20 victory over the Mascoma Valley Royals. This triumph marks a significant achievement for the program, which had been striving for success since its inception.
The atmosphere at Hillsboro-Deering High School was electric leading up to the Division IV State Championship. Students, teachers, and community members rallied behind their team, particularly senior running back Robert King, who was determined to secure a victory. King, who has experienced the highs and lows of football, transitioned from a cooperative team with Hopkinton to lead the charge for a championship as a standalone program.
Facing off against the No. 2 seed, the Royals, the top-seeded Hillcats (7-1, 7-0) displayed resilience throughout the match. This victory represents the school’s first state championship in any sport since 1995. “How can you not go out when they do so much for you in school and out of school and go win it?” King said, reflecting on the importance of this win for the entire community. “I couldn’t have asked for a better ending.”
The game began with the Hillcats struggling, quickly falling behind 20-6 in the second quarter after three lengthy touchdown drives by Mascoma. King managed to score a 60-yard touchdown, but the team needed more to stay competitive. A six-play drive culminated in a 23-yard run by senior Dan Richard, narrowing the gap to 20-13.
Richard, who has only played football for three years, credited King with helping him develop as a runner. “You just can’t get down on yourself. You have to believe in your teammates. You gotta do whatever you can to get the win,” Richard said. His determination paid off as he contributed significantly to the team’s performance.
The Hillcats’ defense, having previously held the Royals to 14 points in their regular-season matchup, stepped up in the second half. The team executed a remarkable 80-yard, 19-play touchdown drive that lasted the entire third quarter. Senior quarterback Joshuwa Perron capped this drive with a touchdown pass to senior tight end Chase Owen, pulling the Hillcats to within a point at 20-19.
As Mascoma’s offense struggled to regain momentum, the Hillcats capitalized on their fatigue. A key turnover occurred when junior defensive back Micah Adams intercepted a pass, leading to a pivotal moment in the game. With the clock winding down, King dashed for a 52-yard touchdown, putting the Hillcats ahead 27-20, followed by Richard’s successful two-point conversion.
With less than four minutes remaining, Richard sealed the victory with his second touchdown, finalizing the score at 34-20. Throughout the game, King rushed for 208 yards and two touchdowns, while Richard added 81 yards and two touchdowns, demonstrating their prowess on the field.
Head coach Jay Wood expressed pride in his team’s legacy. “This is the 12th year of football in the community, and now there’s a banner they can never forget about,” he stated. He emphasized the significance of this championship in establishing a foundation for future success.
As the final seconds ticked away, Hillsboro-Deering fans erupted in celebration, marking a historic moment for their school and community. The Hillcats’ determination and teamwork culminated in a well-deserved state championship, setting a precedent for future athletes.
