The Bucksport Golden Bucks have been one of the most successful programs in Eastern Maine Class C for the past two seasons and could be in the thick of the playoff hunt again this season.

After losing in the EM Class C championship game last year to Foxcroft Academy and in the state final to Boothbay in 2001, the Golden Bucks are focused but taking the one-game-at-a-time approach.

Ninth-year head coach Joel Sankey is starting out with modest goals for his club.

“Our goal is to get to the playoffs, and just be competitive in every game,” he said. “We’ve always played tough ball, particularly against Brewer in the preseason.”

Despite losing stars such as placekicker Trevor Lalonde, fullback Phil Harvey, and speedy tailback-receiver Gunner Siverly, the Bucks may be very competitive thanks to some experienced players.

Returning key players at the skill positions include senior tailback Chris Woodman and junior quarterback Joey Carmichael, but Bucksport’s biggest strength is its offensive line, according to Sankey.

“We have lots of experience on the line. If you have good backs and no line, you’ll struggle,” Sankey said.

Sankey is hoping that line can clear some holes for the fleet-footed Woodman, who runs around a 4.6-second 40-yard dash.

“Woodman is one of the toughest kids I’ve ever had,” Sankey added.

That speed and some fast, reliable receivers could also pay dividends for the Golden Bucks, according to their coach.

Plus, Carmichael can throw the ball around 60 yards, Sankey said.

“We’ve always had speedy receivers,” he said. “If he gets the ball over the top, watch out. We also have a dangerously fast defensive backfield.”

Another key strength for the Bucks is the friendly confines of Carmichael Field, where they went undefeated in 2001.

“We’ve always had great fan support, and it’s a great football environment, which helps,” Sankey said. “We generally get between 1,000-1,500 people, and these fans just love their football.”

Bucksport opens the season at home against Maranacook of Readfield and then hosts the Rockland Tigers the next week.

BUCKSPORT GOLDEN BUCKS

2002 results: 7-4, lost in East Class C final

Head Coach: Joel Sankey, 9th year

Key players: Chris Woodman, TB-LB, Sr.; John Harvey, WR, Jr.; Dave Mushrall, OL-LB, Sr.; Evan Cotrell, DE-C, Sr.; Dylan Eldridge, G-DT, Sr.; Joey Carmichael, QB-S, Jr.; Chris Ames, T, Sr.

Outlook: The Golden Bucks will be right in the thick of things in LTC Class C. The 44-player squad boasts a veteran offensive line, which will clear holes for tailback Chris Woodman and protect quarterback Joey Carmichael. The strong senior QB has some fine receivers to work with, such as John Harvey.