Bridgton Academy Unveils Renovated Basketball Court Honoring Coach Whit Lesure
Bridgton Academy is proud to announce the completion of a major renovation to its historic Memorial Gymnasium basketball court—a space where generations of Wolverines have trained, competed, and grown. This extensive project, made possible through generous philanthropic support including a lead gift from Kevin Hancock and Hancock Lumber Company, honors the past, modernizes the present, and paves the way for future excellence in Bridgton athletics.
A highlight of the renovation is the dedication of the court to longtime Head Basketball Coach Whit Lesure, recognizing his nearly three decades of coaching excellence, mentorship, and leadership. The official court dedication will take place during Homecoming Weekend, September 26–28, 2025, and all alumni, families, and friends are warmly invited to attend.
“This caught me off guard. I think my head is still spinning, but that’s nothing new there, if you know me,” said Coach Whit Lesure. “Watching it all unfold is a bit surreal. It’s humbling, and a sincere honor to be recognized alongside so many significant educators who left their own legacy at Bridgton Academy. I’m especially grateful for Marybeth and our family, who signed on for a year or two and lived the sacrifice and reward of prep school life. This court is for the players—past, present, and future—who gave and continue to give their all in this gym.”
The project was launched with major support from Kevin Hancock and the Hancock Lumber family, whose enduring relationship with Bridgton Academy now has a visible home on the new floor design, which includes Hancock’s logos and brand elements.
“I’m thrilled to be a part of the Memorial Gym rehab project and the new Whit Lesure court. As a former basketball coach at the Academy, I’m well aware of the deep history and tradition that is Bridgton Academy basketball. So many great players, coaches, opponents, and humans have battled, sweat, won, lost, and competed in that special space. It’s a gym like no other, with a tradition like no other, led by a coach today in Whit Lesure who represents us all. Bridgton Academy basketball is a community spanning generations and I’m grateful to be a part of it,” said Kevin Hancock, Chairman of Hancock Lumber.
“Hancock Lumber believes in investing in our people and the communities we’re a part of—there’s no better example of that than supporting Bridgton Academy’s Memorial Gym generational rehab project,” commented Hancock Lumber’s Chief Marketing Officer, Erin Plummer. “This initiative not only honors the school’s rich athletic tradition but also creates a space that will inspire future generations of student-athletes during a year that makes THE difference. As both a trustee of Bridgton Academy and member of the Hancock team, I’m incredibly proud of our collective support from the company and family—and, of course thrilled to see the court dedicated to the legendary Coach Whit!”
Originally constructed in 1959, Memorial Gym’s floor had served the Academy for 66 years. The renovations included a full replacement of the gym floor by New England Sports Floors, new scoreboards and shot clocks, bleachers from Hussey Seating, upgraded benches, and a range of other visual and structural improvements. A new roof, funded by the Academy and slated for completion this June, brings the total project cost to over $350,000.
“Bridgton Academy is more than a school—it’s a place that values relationships to support students’ growth,” said Diana J. Gleeson, Head of Bridgton Academy. “Our new court is more than a facility upgrade—it’s a legacy project. I am proud to honor legendary coach Whit Lesure and all the coaches, players, and fans that have infused the Memorial Gym with Wolverine pride. The new court will continue to serve as a space that unites a passionate community.”
The court’s bold new black and gray design showcases Bridgton Academy’s signature colors, with Coach Lesure’s signature featured in two places of honor on the hardwood—a permanent mark of his influence and impact.
“Coach Lesure is an elite basketball mind and a tireless worker on behalf of his players and the Academy,” said Aaron Izaryk, Athletic Director. “But just as important as his wins and championships is the example he set—one of dedication, mentorship, and love for Bridgton. Whit Lesure Court is a physical reminder of the values we cherish: effort, integrity, competitiveness, and relationships.”
“Whether you played in the ‘Wolverdome’ or cheered from the bleachers, Memorial Gym leaves an impression,” Izaryk added. “This project connects the old with the new—honoring decades of tradition while ensuring future generations of Wolverines have a home court that reflects our pride and purpose.”
The court also carries special meaning for Academy alumni and former players like Greg Hill, a 2007 NEPSAC AAA basketball champion and current assistant basketball coach:
“Coach Whit Lesure is deserving of every good deed that comes his way,” said Coach Hill. “His impact goes way beyond basketball—he motivates, inspires, teaches, and genuinely cares. I’ve seen firsthand the blood, sweat, tears, and years of hard work that went into this gym. Dedicating this court to Coach is the perfect way to honor his legacy and leadership, both on and off the floor.”
Memorial Gymnasium—affectionately known to many as a “shrine” of New England prep basketball—has long been a place of unforgettable moments.
“There’s a lot of prep gyms with history, but none better than this one—especially when it’s full of our students,” Lesure reflected. “Young men from around the world built this tradition before I ever showed up. This renovation ensures many more will carry it forward when I’m long gone. And to the new guys: I may look like an antique—but don’t treat me like one. I’ve still got plenty of fight left in me.”
With over 100 donations in support of this project—including many young alumni making their first-ever gifts—the renovation is a testament to the enduring strength of Bridgton’s community and the transformative power of sport.
