The Morning Journal (Lorain, OH)
Westlake’s Francesconi caps comeback season
At the OHSAA state meet Nov. 10 at National Trail Raceway, there were four individuals in Division I and Division III combined in The Morning Journal coverage area.
It was about enjoying every moment with her coaches and family. Francesconi has battled a long road to reach this point, suffering a concussion a last year’s regional meet, and she wasn’t sure if she would compete this year.
So when she placed 72nd (19:57.7), it didn’t matter. She already accomplished everything she wanted.
“That was by far the most challenging race I’ve ever experienced so far in my running career,” Francesconi said. “And it’s only been two seasons. I didn’t get out as good as I wanted to. It was very rough with everyone wanting to get in front. But you know what? I didn’t come into this meet trying to win or trying to break a record. I wanted to enjoy it.”
Her coach, Travis Haselswerdt, had to convince Francesconi to try cross country two years ago. It was worth it. “Not everybody gets to experience being in a state-level competition,” Francesconi said. “If you’re able to, then you take advantage of it. Anyone who doesn’t take advantage of it shouldn’t come down then. I’m grateful to come back from what I went through last year.”
Rocky River freshman Samantha Coleman placed 93rd (20:21). Coleman said she never ran a 5K race before this season and expects to have a big upcoming three seasons.
“I didn’t have the best race, but it was fun to be here,” Coleman said. “There was a bunch of fast people. I’m glad to have this experience, and I’m excited for the next three years.” the way I wanted, but I tried hard. I was hoping for top 10. It’s been fun. I had a pretty good season.”
Columbia freshman Madeleine Finton took 71st (21:09.8). She was only the second girl in school history to qualify.
“I’m happy to be here, and I’ve come a long way since the beginning of the year,” Finton said. “It was a lot of fun. I will say that I am going to take this and work harder than ever in the offseason. It was a good experience.”