MHS Spring Sports Preview
The Messalonskee track and field program’s first home meet on its new $3.9 million facility was supposed to happen on April 25, but soggy conditions in the field part of the complex put that historic debut on hold, probably until next month.
But Messalonskee track coach Matt Holman said the postponement did little to dampen the enthusiasm of his athletes.
“I think we have a really resilient group,” he said. “We’ve been used to not even having practices on a track, so I think people are still so happy about a facility just to practice on that they are willing to put pass small things like not having a track meet. The kids are still in awe of having a real facility.”
Along with resiliency, Holman’s track teams are both coming off a strong indoor season. The girls’ squad especially has the potential to contend for a conference championship. Led by sisters Emma (sprints) and Charlotte Wentworth (middle distance), the Eagles feature considerable depth in both the track and field events. Megan Quirion (sprints) and distance runners Alexa Brennan and Peyton Arbour are among the other key performers.
The boys’ team is younger and less experienced but has great promise, according to Holman. “They grew a lot in indoor (season),” he said, “and I think they will continue to grow.” He said thrower Sean Rodrigue and hurdler Michael D’Amico should both be among his most competitive athletes.
Prospects also are bright for Messalonskee’s other sports teams. The baseball and softball squads are each coming off playoff appearances a year ago. The softball team, 9-8 last season, features more depth and experience than in 2018, while the baseball team is short on varsity experience but blessed with a lot of strong pitchers.
Messalonskee’s lacrosse teams each graduated some talented performers from a year ago. But for both the boys and the girls, the lineups should have enough talent to contend for a spot in the postseason. Last spring, Messalonskee reached the Class B semifinals in the boys’ and girls’ tournaments.
As for girls’ tennis, the goal is the playoffs. Junior Lauren Bourque is a key person in the Eagles’ achieving that objective. Bourque finished 12-9 last season and ranks among the strongest players in central Maine. Messalonskee also has more depth this year, which should further aid the Eagles in earning a postseason slot.