By Stephen Ur
New England College did something that no team has ever done and may never do again – win their first football in over 50 years.
The school, based out of Henniker, NH, cut their football program all the way back in 1974. The Pilgrims returned in 2024, playing a pre-varsity schedule.
After an 0-6 start to the 2025 season, they welcomed Maine Maritime Academy, looking for not only their first win of the season, but also their first home win in program history.
Junior Aidan McDonald scored the go-ahead touchdown with 3:15 left and after their defense forced a turnover on downs, McDonald ran for 15 yards and a first down on a 3rd and 6 with 1:53 left to clinch the victory for the Pilgrims.
The win is their first in 51 years, and their first home win in program history. They will head on the road looking for their second consecutive victory as they take on Western New England in Springfield. Kickoff is set for 1 p.m. ET.