A Thornton Academy player reaches up and touches the, “Defend the Hill,” sign before walking on to the field for practice on Wednesday.
Thornton Academy Coach Kevin Kezal talks with Brennan Tabor during practice Wedesday. Kezal took over at Thornton Academy in 2000 and has lead the Trojans to six straight Class A state finals.
A Thornton Academy player runs down the field as sunset light illuminates the bleachers during their practice Wednesday. The Trojans face Portland in the Class A state championship game on Saturday, their sixth straight appearance in the state final.
Thornton Academy players practice Wednesday evening.
Thornton Academy players line up for drills during their practice on Wednesday.
Thornton Academy players walk onto the field for practice Wednesday as they prepare to face Portland in the Class A state final Saturday at Portland's Fitzpatrick Stadium.
Thornton Academy’s Mauricio Sunderland chats with a teammate during practice on Wednesday.
Thornton Academy players listen as one of their coaches show them a play during practice on Wednesday. The Golden Trojans have played in nine of the last 12 Class A state title games.
Thornton Academy quarterback Wyatt Benoit understands the pressure of continuing the tradition the Trojans have created. "You feel like you’ve got to make the state championship every year."
Thornton Academy sophomore Chase Daigle slaps hands with a teammate.
Varsity Maine 
