See photos from Cheverus football’s scrimmage against Greely

PORTLAND — The Cheverus Stags and Greely Rangers kicked off their football seasons Friday with a preseason scrimmage in Portland.

The exhibition game allowed both programs to test their squads against a regional opponent before the regular season begins.

Cheverus drew first blood when Jackson Holmes returned the opening kickoff 85 yards for a touchdown. The Stags added another score when AJ Lauture hauled in a pass for a six-pointer. Joe Iaccarino also found the end zone for Cheverus, catching a pass and turning upfield for a score.

Greely responded with its own offensive efforts. Finn Brown found running lanes throughout the game, while Aiden Gorham made several receptions through the air. Defensive lineman Derrick Dipaollo led the Rangers' defensive unit.

Cheverus is led by veteran coach Skip Capone, while Greely is under the direction of Caleb King.

The game concluded with the traditional handshake between teams, a hallmark of preseason contests where the focus lies on preparation and player development rather than the final outcome.