Published in the September 7, 2018 edition
By JENNIFER GENTILE
MELROSE—One year after completing another record-breaking season, the Melrose Lady Raider swim team dives into the fall this week looking to repeat their success from 2017, when they landed on the podium in both league and state competition.
Melrose opens this Wednesday at home against Lexington and hosts North Andover this Monday at 4:00 p.m. at their home base at the Mystic Regional Charter School.
THE MHS girls’ swim team is ready to kick off their season this week, looking to smash more records. (courtesy photo)
Last year Melrose crowned four league all-stars at the Middlesex League meet and broke five school records. They advanced to place 5th in the North sectionals and 7th in the state, amounting to their best showing in a statewide competition in the history of the program. Big flippers to fill? Of course. But don’t rule this hearty group of 23 swimmers out, as they return strong senior leadership and talented underclassmen that could combine to make 2018 successful.
“The makeup of the team has changed, as the past two years were two of the best ever for Melrose girls swimming,” says head coach Deb Deacon. “We graduated 14 seniors the past two years, which has us ‘rebuilding and re-energizing’ the team.”
But Melrose has a few weapons in their arsenal.
Senior Captains Molly Williams and Natasha Brown will lead the team, both talented and experienced swimmers who will help put Melrose in the win column. Williams is one of the most talented swimmers in the Middlesex League and is a real contender for a state title. “Molly will be leading the charge,” says Deacon. “She has a fight and presence about her. I know she will go after it this year.” Look for Williams to compete in both sprint and distance in the 200 free and 500 freestyle.
Joining the captains are sectional/state qualifier Jennifer Kahler as well as seniors Julia Paiewonsky and Stephanie Overlan.
Newcomers include senior Maggie Doyle and several swimmers who train offseason including sophomore Abigail Gauch, Allison Stoelzel, Kerri Stoelzel, Milannia Saggesse and Lillian Sullivan. Grace Haseltine, Lucy Tyson, Jenna Thorpe and new swimmer Anna Burtnett (freshman) are a group that Deacon is excited about. “I’m looking forward to seeing what the new members bring.”
Deacon predicts Melrose will be once again solid in the 200 free and 400 free relays. And with a relative low number of 23 swimmers, there are opportunities to swim new events and find a niche. Melrose also brings in new assistant coach this year, Kari Miller, who started the Mystic swim team 16 years ago has now joined Melrose. “We are thrilled to have her. Her vast swimming knowledge and experience with both beginner and experienced swimmers will be good for the team.”
So far it’s been smooth sailing, says Deacon. “It has always been my goal to make sure all of the girls work hard, are good sports, improve and have a blast.”
Melrose kicks off their season against Lexington on Wed. Sept 12 at their home base at the Mystic Charter School. Most of their meets this season will be held at home, giving fans plenty of opportunity to see them in action.
