Waterford Lancers will open the 2026 season under first-year head coach Pat Dougherty, who previously served as an offensive line coach at Berlin. The team, playing home games at Alumni Field, finished 2025 with a 6-5 record and reached the Class SS playoffs before falling to Hand 43-19 in the quarterfinals.

Coaching Transition

Pat Dougherty takes the helm after a stint as an offensive line coach at Berlin and prior coaching roles at Hillhouse and Wesleyan University. He has assembled a new coaching staff and plans to implement an up-tempo offense with multiple formations. Dougherty emphasized that the defensive scheme will be tailored to each opponent, noting that the secondary had a strong offseason.

Returning Talent

The Lancers return six offensive starters, including senior quarterback Lucas Racicot (6-2, 185) and senior offensive lineman A.J. Lowe (6-0, 265). Four seniors also line up on the offensive line: Mark Dodani (5-11, 210), AJ Baker (5-11, 200), Jawann Johnson (6-0, 200), and Kevario Malcolm (6-4, 190). Defensively, only four starters return, and the team must replace several defensive linemen.

Schedule Highlights

The 2026 schedule features a mix of conference and non-conference games. Key matchups include: - Sept. 10 vs. Griswold/Wheeler (conference) - Sept. 19 at New Fairfield - Oct. 8 at Killingly - Nov. 13 vs. New London - Nov. 26 at East Lyme The Lancers will play their home games at Alumni Field, with conference games marked by an asterisk.

Offensive Outlook

Lucas Racicot led the offense last year with 690 passing yards, eight passing touchdowns, and five rushing touchdowns. Junior Chase Nolda also saw significant time, posting 819 passing yards and eight touchdowns. The loss of senior Parker Spencer, who scored 12 touchdowns, is the biggest hit for the offense, but the depth at key positions should keep the unit competitive.

Defensive Adjustments

While the defensive line has depth, Dougherty noted that multiple starters will be replaced. The secondary’s strong offseason gives confidence that the defense can adapt to various offensive schemes. The Lancers will aim to leverage their experience on offense while building a resilient defense for the upcoming season.

Waterford’s 2026 campaign will test the new coaching staff’s ability to blend veteran leadership with fresh talent as they aim to advance beyond the quarterfinal exit of 2025.