By: Sean Richards
The Monroe Township High School’s Nicole Ragucci comes across as a humble person, but when she’s on the track the only one getting humbled is the opposition.
As the standout junior gears up for this weekend’s NJSIAA Individual States in Toms River, you get the feeling there’s no telling what she might accomplish.
Two weeks ago, Ragucci took the Greater Middlesex Conference Championships by storm with a first-place, record-setting finish in the 400 and a second in the 800 that might have resulted in more gold if she’d been in the same race with the girl who won it out of an unseeded heat.
Her versatility in amazing because Ragucci qualified for the NJSIAA Individual Meet of Champions last year as a sprinter and she’s also an accomplished pole vaulter.
"I really don’t know," replied Ragucci earlier this week when asked what events she’ll be competing at states. "Sometimes I like the 400, sometimes I don’t. I’m debating between the 400, 800 and pole vault. I definitely want to do the pole vault. I haven’t worked much on the sprints."
In addition to having the athletic talent to compete in a variety of events, Ragucci also has a competitive spirit that makes her even tougher to beat. This is reflected in her thoughts about the GMCs.
"I was kind of surprised I won that (400) race, but I really wanted to beat some of those runners," said Ragucci.. "It wasn’t my fastest race (58.58) in that event indoors, but I was pleased with the win. The 800 got messed up and kind of bummed me out. If I’d had a chance to run against her (meet champion Nicole Miglis of South Plainfield), the outcome probably would have been a bit different.
"I could have done better in both races, but I’m not disappointed with where I am. I’m where I’m supposed to be."
Echoed coach Jim Cox: "Nicole is really coming along. She’s right on track to compete for a state title."
With the spring season and another year still remaining at Monroe, the fun has just begun on the scholastic front for Ragucci. It would come as no surprise if she later finds success on the collegiate level as well.
"Yeah, I do want to run in college," said Ragucci, who comes from a family with a track background. "I’m hoping to get a scholarship. I have received mail from a few places and there’s been some interest. We’ve also talked to some coaches to kind of let them now I’m out there."
If Ragucci continues to perform on this level, getting recognized will not be a problem at all. In its lone action from last week, Monroe competed at the Ed Grant Last Chance Invitational at the Jersey City Armory. The highlight for the Falcons came when Sara Beth Moke tied the school record in the 55 hurdles with a time of 9.1.
"The meet went well for us," said Cox. "Sara Beth has made tremendous strides in her senior year." Another strong performance was turned in by freshman Stephanie Nawracaj, who broke her personal best by 10 seconds in the 1,600 meters with a time of 6:04.
"The meet was good for us because it gave us an opportunity to get the younger kids involved and get them some big-meet experience," said Cox. "We are looking forward to the state individuals this weekend."
The Monroe girls will compete in the states at Toms River Saturday and the boys will be in action Sunday.

