Waynflete/NYA Baseball Co-op Thrives

Unique high school sports partnership proves successful in Maine

Apr. 8, 2026 at 2:25am

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A fragmented, geometric painting in vibrant colors depicting a high school baseball game from multiple angles, conveying the cooperative nature of the partnership between the two schools.A creative, cubist interpretation of the collaborative spirit behind a successful high school sports co-op.Portland Today

A baseball co-op between Waynflete School and North Yarmouth Academy (NYA) in Portland, Maine has become a model for how such arrangements can work effectively. The two schools, which are just 15 miles apart, have combined their baseball programs to field a competitive team that benefits both communities.

Why it matters

High school sports co-ops are becoming more common as smaller schools struggle to field full teams, but many have struggled with logistical and cultural challenges. The Waynflete/NYA partnership shows how a well-executed co-op can enhance the athletic experience for students at both schools.

The details

The Waynflete/NYA baseball co-op began in 2021 after both schools independently struggled to field full rosters. By combining, the team now has 18 players from the two schools. Coaches say the partnership has allowed them to provide a higher level of instruction and competition. Players from both schools have embraced the co-op, saying it has strengthened bonds between the communities.

  • The Waynflete/NYA baseball co-op began in 2021.
  • The team currently has 18 players from the two schools.

The players

Waynflete School

A private college preparatory school in Portland, Maine.

North Yarmouth Academy (NYA)

A private college preparatory school located 15 miles from Waynflete in Yarmouth, Maine.

Paul Garzia

The head coach of the Waynflete/NYA baseball team.

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What they’re saying

“The co-op has really brought our communities together. The kids have embraced it and it's been great to see them bond over baseball.”

— Paul Garzia, Head Coach

The takeaway

The successful Waynflete/NYA baseball co-op demonstrates how thoughtfully designed partnerships between small schools can enhance athletic opportunities for students and strengthen community bonds.