The Rumford High team of 1975 was a very young team, as they started three sophomores, but still finished the regular season as the #1 seed in the Western Class A tournament. They ended their regular season with forteen wins and four losses and ultimately lost to #5 seeded Westbrook in the Western Maine semi-finals. The starters that year were Steve Pepin and Doug Roberts along with the three sophomores, Matt Kaubris, Tim Ziko and Andy Shorey. The sting of losing to Westbrook in the tournament after holding a large halftime lead would prove to be a strong motivational force for the young Panthers, as they would then go on to win 48 straight games after that heart breaking loss.
The Rumford High team of 1976 was a powerhouse team, scoring an average of 83 points per game while holding opponents to an average of 48 points per game. They went undefeated (18 – 0) in their regular season and beat Lawrence High in the State Class A Championship game in Augusta (and Lake Region in the A/B playoff). The New England Championship tournament was held in Durham, NH at the University of New Hampshire. There the Panthers would go on to beat a strong New Hampshire team in the opening round and ultimately beat Mt. Anthony Union High School of Vermont to win the New England Championship. The starters that year were Doug Roberts, Jack Kaubris, Matt Kaubris, Tim Ziko, and Andy Shorey, along with key subs Bob Reid and Chris Gorham.
The Rumford High team of 1977 was another juggernaut. They also went undefeated (18 – 0) in their regular season and thoroughly beat Stearns High School of Millinocket in the State Class A Championship game in Bangor. The margin of victory was 20 points, the most for a State game at the time. Unfortunately the New England Championship tournament was not held that year as there was a scheduling conflict with the other participating States. The starters that year were Matt Kaubris, Tim Ziko, Andy Shorey, Tim Shea, and John Zinck. The key contributors that year off the bench were: Mike Arsenault, Dave Gerrish, Mike Fraser, and Pete Carignan.
The Rumford High teams of 1978 – 1980 had continued success, each team had winning seasons, and each team qualified for the Class A Western Maine tournament. Unfortunately, none of these teams achieved the ultimate success of winning the “Gold Ball” at their State Championship games. Thus ended the Rumford High School basketball dynasty, but what a dynasty it was, filled with so many great memories for those fortunate enough to participate as players, coaches, or fans. It truly was a great ride.
Source:
Personal recollection of former Rumford High School athlete Matt Kaubris.
