The Maine Lobster Bowl’s motto is “Strong legs run so weak legs can walk.” And the game’s organizers probably couldn’t have found a better player who epitomizes their motto than Boothbay Region’s Julian Aponte.

Over the past three seasons, Aponte’s strong legs made him one of the most dynamic kick returners in the state. His achievements on punt and kickoff returns as well as Boothbay Region’s top running back earned him a spot on the Western Maine Lobster Bowl squad. The game will pit the state’s  western all-stars versus the eastern squad on Saturday, July 18 in Biddeford. 

Aponte said playing in the Lobster Bowl was a goal he set as a freshman. Even though he trained hard over the past four years, Aponte was surprised to learn of his selection.

In past seasons, the Lobster Bowl committee has usually selected kick returners from Class A and B schools. Aponte believed teammates Howie Carter and Antonio Maololo were more likely candidates to represent Boothbay Region on this year’s Western Maine squad.

“I was shocked,” Aponte said. “Howie and Antonio had great seasons for us. Coaches usually select bigger and stronger athletes from the smaller schools. A special teams player like me usually doesn’t get noticed.”

Aponte was the Seahawks’ leading rusher last season. He gained 517 yards and scored eight touchdowns as a running back. On special teams, he scored three touchdowns on kick returns.

Boothbay Region coach Bryan Dionne believes Aponte’s selection is well-deserved.  He characterizes Aponte as a hard worker who spent extra time working out in the weight room and in team meetings preparing himself for gridiron excellence.

“Julian is one of those special players who has dedicated himself to becoming a better football player,” Dionne said. “His hard work and dedication shows on the football field.”

Leadership is an other important factor in the selection committee’s decision. Maine Shriners look for good athletes who are good citizens in their communities.  Maine’s high school football coaches all nominate senior athletes who will well-represent the Shriners organization.

“The coaches are looking at players who are both quality individuals and athletes,” Dionne said. “And Julian is just that. He has represented our program very well over the past four years.”

The Maine Lobster Bowl raises money and awareness for the 22 Shrine hospitals located in North America. The game raises money to support expert orthopedic and burn care facilities made available to children who need specialized care.

The Lobster Bowl provides 90 Maine graduating seniors one last opportunity to play high school football. The seniors need to raise about $500 to play in the game. The players will train from July 11-18 at Foxcroft Academy in Dover-Foxcroft.

Aponte is seeking donations to finance his contribution. He has placed jars around the school requesting contributions from students and staff. He has also placed two online posts soliciting funds. Aponte is considering other fundraising options for later in the year.

Boothbay Region had two players selected to the Western Maine squad. Antonio Maololo was chosen, but declined to play due to a commitment to the U.S. Navy, according to Dionne.

Aponte will be joined by his coach during the week-long football camp and at the game. Dionne was selected to the Western Maine Lobster Bowl coaching staff for the second consecutive season.

This is the 26th Lobster Bowl. The game is played each year at Waterhouse Field in Biddeford.