2009 FALL MALE ATHLETE OF THE YEAR:

CHARLIE DUPEE, Junior-Soccer

* SMAA all-star, first team

* Regional all-star

The Deering boys’ soccer team didn’t qualify for the playoffs this fall, but the Rams did feature one of the best and most exciting players in the state.

That player, Charlie Dupee, made good things happen for the Deering offense and could be counted upon to make the most of his opportunities. He keeps getting better and better and stands to have a stellar senior season.

For being a big-time player, while at the same time, unassuming, and for delivering in the clutch moments, Charlie Dupee is The Forecaster’s choice for Deering’s 2009 Fall Male Athlete of the Year.

Dupee, a Portland native, has been immersed in soccer since a young age, joined the Deering varsity as a freshman and truly starred this season.

He had goal in a season-opening win over Sanford, scored twice in a home victory over Massabesic, tickled the twine on three occasions versus Noble, had a dazzling free kick score in a loss to South Portland, scored the game-winner in an upset over Cheverus and had a goal in a season-ending 3-2 win at Marshwood.

For the year, Dupee, a center-mid, finished with 10 goals and two assists. He then earned conference and regional all-star recognition.

Dupee, who runs middle-distance in indoor track, competes on the Maine Coast United U-17 premier team. He’s also involved with drama. He wants to eventually play soccer in college, something that is a distinct likelihood.

First, he hopes to have a standout season campaign and return the Rams to the playoffs. Don’t be surprised if he closes his high school career with a flourish. Charlie Dupee, Deering’s 2009 Fall Male Athlete of the Year, is one of the state’s special talents and is only getting better.

Coach Andy LeFebvre’s Comment: “Charlie is a great kid. He’s quiet, modest and very coachable. He really sets the pace and tone for us. Typically any goal we score is usually created or scored by Charlie. He’s one of the most dangerous players in free kick situations, because he’s deadly accurate and has great movement on the ball. When you watch him play, it seems you’re waiting for him to do something special that you’re not expecting, whether it’s a move dribbling by people, a threaded pass or an unexpected shot that is perfectly placed.

2008 winner: Jack Heary (Football)

2007 winner: Tony Yeboah (Soccer)

2006 winner: John Misener (Cross country)

2005 winner: Sean Meehan (Soccer/Football)

2004 winner: Ryan Flaherty (Football)

2009 FALL FEMALE ATHLETE OF THE YEAR:

JAMI LEROY, Senior-Field Hockey

* SMAA All-Star, second team

* Team captain

The Deering field hockey team’s recipe for success was simple this season: play staunch defense and take advantage of offensive opportunities.

One Ram helped both causes and did so from start to finish.

Senior Jami LeRoy was an anchor on defense, but had her moments on the offensive side as well, helping Deering post a 7-6-2 mark and return to the postseason.

For being a rock on one end of the field, having a flair for the dramatic during her limited opportunities on the other side and for being willing to do whatever it takes to lead her team to victory, Jami LeRoy gets The Forecaster’s nod as Deering’s 2009 Fall Female Athlete of the Year.

LeRoy, a Portland native, started playing field hockey in the seventh grade. She came to the varsity team as a sophomore and played defense, then really took one for the team as a junior, stepping in at times to play goalie. This season, she led a defense which pitched four shutouts and held four other opponents to just one goal.

Her biggest offensive highlights came against rival Portland (scoring the game-winner on a penalty corner in double overtime) and versus Massabesic (three goals in a 7-2 win). She also added three assists during the season.

Deering’s run ended with a 2-0 setback at Thornton Academy in the Western A preliminary round, but LeRoy was named a league all-star for her season-long performance.

LeRoy is also a strong swimmer, excelling in the middle distance races. She was the co-class president as a junior, is a member of Student Senate and has played the piano for 11 years. She’s currently figuring out her college plans and may continue to swim or play field hockey at the next level.

Whatever she decides, expect her to impress. Jami LeRoy, Deering’s 2009 Fall Female Athlete of the Year, came up big time and again this season and helped her team be the best it could be.

Coach Andrew Gordon’s Comment: “Jami was definitely our rock on defense, usually marking the opposition’s best player, but also using her game sense to be in the right position to cover for others time and again. She possesses a hard drive and the ability to work her way out of tight corners with her stick skills. She played virtually every minute of every game. She was also an excellent captain, knowing which tone to set for the team depending on the situation.”

2008 winner: Jess Ruhlin (Field hockey)

2007 winner: Jess Ruhlin (Field hockey)

2006 winner: Chelsea Johnson (Soccer)

2005 winner: Ashley Morgan (Cross country)

2004 winner: Bronwyn Potthoff (Field hockey)

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