By JENNIFER GENTILE

MELROSE—No one could forget last year when the Melrose High girls’ cross country team became state champs. This year, despite losing senior talent, they are positioned to be a force in the Middlesex Freedom League, and beyond, thanks to some strong returning runners and new faces sure to keep Melrose in contention for a league title.

Having won that state title last year, there is, of course, some pressure to live up to it. But as a team, they are taking this one week at a time.

“States is a long, long way off,” says Melrose coach Nick Tuccinardi. “Our focus is on the league and building a strong base that will support us come November.”

Helping to build that base are captains Maizie Frakt, Catalina Mena and Kensington Ludlum who will lead a squad of about 30 runners. The good news is despite losing talent from 2023, Melrose returns all but two of their top 7 runners from last season which include Maizie Frakt, Ella Ugino, Kensington Ludlum, Violeta Rechea, Naomi Breay.

“This is one of the best prepared and highest running IQ teams we’ve ever had,” says Tuccinardi.

So far, they’ve competed in the MSTCA Relays over the weekend where one group of sophomore and juniors medaled. It was also a welcome debut for one runner who is a MHS track standout. “We ran in a relay meet this past Saturday, our top placer/fastest time was a new cross country runner (she has run track), sophomore Reilly Powell,” says Tuccinardi.

It’s a long season and Melrose has plenty of time to see their runners qualify and fight for league or state titles.

Notes the coach, “As always, the Middlesex League it is one of the toughest leagues in the state, we will be battle tested early and often.”

As for returning as a division favorite, with such talent there is no reason not to think they will be in the thick of it. “We will, yes,” says Tuccinardi.

Melrose will compete next Tuesday against Watertown at their new home course, Pine Banks Park, at 4:15 p.m.

Season schedule 

9/10/2024 Tue 4:15 PM v Winchester

9/17/2024 Tue 4:15 PM v. Watertown

9/24/2024 Tue 4:00 PM @ Stoneham High   

10/1/2024 Tue 4:00 PM @ Wilmington

10/8/2024 Tue 4:00 PM @ Burlington

10/22/2024 Tue 4:15 PM v. Wakefield