Dynasty Sports

Maine State University to Launch Football Program, Announcing First Coach and Stadium Renovations

Portland, Maine — After months of research and analysis, Maine State University has officially greenlit the addition of a football team, set to debut for the 2024 season in which they will be playing primarily against FCS teams.

The school, located in Portland, is primed to make a major splash in collegiate athletics, with plans for an expanded Fitzpatrick Stadium as its home field.

This move comes after a comprehensive study into the feasibility of adding football, which showed broad support from the local community, alumni, and potential recruits. University officials are optimistic that this new chapter will not only boost the school’s athletic profile but also invigorate the local economy.

"The time is right for Maine State University to embrace the opportunity that football presents. Our study confirmed that there is a strong demand for this program in Portland and beyond," said Marc Kurto, the university's Athletic Director. "We're incredibly excited to see our teams, known as the Majestic Pines, compete at the highest level. And with the support from our community and donors, this project is already taking shape."

Kurto's first hire was Casey Monroe, who was hired as the school's director of football operations. Monroe, a former college softball player turned operations expert, will be tasked with keeping the ship running smoothly with scheduling, travel, and compliance.

Renovations to Fitzpatrick Stadium, the team’s new home, will begin shortly to expand seating capacity and improve facilities. The stadium, a well-known landmark in Portland, will undergo a substantial facelift to meet the requirements of Division I football, including updated locker rooms, press boxes, and fan amenities.

Some but not all of the renovations are expected to be completed ahead of the 2024 season opener, with the remainder set to be completed during the season.

"We're thrilled to be able to offer a first-class experience for our athletes and fans alike," Kurto added. "Fitzpatrick Stadium is a fantastic venue, and with these renovations, it will be one of the premier spots to watch college football in New England."

In addition to the physical upgrades, the university has named Rob Tierney as its first-ever football coach. Tierney is a former defensive coordinator at the University of New Hampshire. Tierney played linebacker at Maine in the early 2000s. After a decade in the FCS ranks, he finally gets his shot to lead a program in his home state. Known for discipline, toughness, and a blue-collar culture. Tierney's appointment has been widely celebrated.

"Coach Tierney is the perfect person to lead this program into its new era," said Kurto. "He’s a mentor, a leader, and someone who understands the values of hard work and community. His history in Maine speaks volumes, and we’re incredibly fortunate to have him as our first head coach."

Tierney says his vision for the program is rooted in a commitment to developing student-athletes who are as successful on the field as they are in the classroom.

"I’m proud to be back home, leading a team that will represent this great community," said Tierney "We’re going to build a football program that people can be proud of, both on and off the field. The Majestic Pines are about more than just football, we're about inspiring the community and the state's next generation of student athletes."

The university has received significant backing from local businesses to help fund the new football program and stadium renovations. Major donors include Hannaford, Berlin City Honda and Dunkin, all of whom are excited about the impact the new football team will have on the community and the region.

"We’re incredibly grateful for the generous support of our local partners," Kurto said. "Hannaford, Dunkin', L.L. Bean and Berlin City Honda have been instrumental in making this vision a reality. Their belief in Maine State University and its athletic programs shows just how much pride they take in Portland and in Maine."

The Majestic Pines football program is expected to generate excitement not only within the Portland community but across the state of Maine. The team's arrival in division one college football will provide a unique opportunity for local fans to experience competitive, Division I football close to home.

With renovations to Fitzpatrick Stadium underway and a new coach at the helm, Maine State University is ready to make its mark in collegiate football. Fans, alumni, and residents of Portland are eagerly anticipating the first season of Majestic Pines football in 2024.

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