The spring season is here, and athletes are starting to find their grooves. Whether it’s rounding the bases, scoring goals, or delivering aces, student-athletes are ready to shine.
For Marblehead, there are a lot of newcomers to the varsity scene, but also, some senior leaders looking to make history in their final years as Magicians.
On the boys tennis courts, senior Mika Garber is the reigning Northeastern Conference Most Valuable Player for a reason. The superstar went 15-3 last spring and was undefeated in conference play. The Magicians’ top option never even needed a third set in his victories.
A strong start for Garber is already in the bank. Earlier this week, he defeated his opponent 6-0, 6-0 in a match against Manchester-Essex.
For the softball team, it’s returning (essentially) the entire team from last season. With another year of experience, Marblehead will be a tough team to beat.
Last season, the Magicians lost starting pitcher Tessa Francis after the second game, meaning Ruby Calienes had to see more action on the mound. Now, with the pitching experience Calienes received last year (7 wins), Marblehead has a dual-threat option between Francis and Calienes.
Calienes was a reliable hitter for coach Johnny Gold, as she batted .382 with 26 hits and 12 RBI last spring.
Staying on the diamond – the baseball one – three names to remember are pitcher Chris Cannuscio and utility players Brooks Keefe and Bodie Bartram. Trust me.
On the track, Alex Hersey looks to continue his winter track success. Plus, a year ago, he placed fourth at the MSTCA North Decathlon and recorded great scores in the 110mh (15.46), 400m (53.61), long jump (21-0), and triple jump (41-1).
The program is also returning standout Marrietta O’Connell, who had a freshman season to remember. Last spring, she placed ninth at New Balance Nationals in the freshman 2-mile and second in Division 3.
Girls lacrosse. It’s filled with youth, but also, sprinkled with veteran leadership. Two players who impressed in the season-opening tilt against Manchester-Essex were freshmen Kathryn Commoss and Molly Bullard.
Commoss scored twice and Bullard made save after save. Nice debuts, huh?
It’s lucky to have Ramona Gillett back on the roster, too. Multiple times on Tuesday, she used countless moves to get past her defenders and scored two goals, to boot.
On the boys’ side, a lot of talent left after a 21-1 season, but head coach John Wilkens said the team needs to put last year aside and focus on what matters – the next few months.
Some tough-minded defenders from last season’s team return, including starters Eliot Pluss and JJ Pollender. On the offensive side, the Magicians sport Charlie Grenier (a two-year starter), Bodie Smith, and Reese Moore as the program looks to reach another Final 4.
Marblehead, best of luck.
