Southern Maine Athletics

Martin Magnusson, 1970- Dean Evans remembers Marty Magnusson as one of a handful of players who stood above all the rest at Gorham High School. The reasons were many, including his tremendous work ethic, natural athletic ability and willingness to learn. “He was one of the toughest rebounders who ever went to Gorham High School,” says Evans, who coached Magnusson during his four seasons with the Rams. “He wasn’t that tall, but he worked very hard, and he was always a gentleman.” The talented forward made his mark at the University of Maine-Portland as well. He became the highest scorer in UMP history and was the first player ever to score 1,000 points. He reached the milestone by scoring 26 points in the final game of his career. “He had a real gift for how to move on the basketball court,” says Evans, “and you can’t always teach that.” Magnusson was also a standout golfer at UMP before receiving his business degree in 1970. During his senior year at UMP he was named to Who’s Who of College Athletics. The Thomaston resident is currently the warden of the Maine State Prison.