With its biggest turnout at tryouts in school history, the John F. Kennedy High School girls cross-country team is hoping for a big season this fall. Last year’s team ran to a 3-5 record, but with a number of veteran runners back for another season, the future of the program appears headed in the right direction.
“We had close to 20 girls come out for the team this summer, making this the biggest team we’ve ever had,” Kennedy head coach Cliff Stockhoff said. “We always have a lot of fun, and the girls are all very nice. I think that has made the team attractive for newcomers.”
Back for her senior season and heading this year’s list of talented runners is Hillary Novosedlik. Novosedlik, now in her fourth season running for the varsity team, is likely to be Kennedy’s No. 1 runner.
“Hopefully, Hillary can win some races for us this season,” Stockhoff said. “We’re hoping she runs between 22 and 23 minutes. She is certainly capable of doing this consistently.”
Also capable of running similar times and finishing atop the pack this autumn is junior Melissa Majewski. Majewski is embarking on her third season with the team.
“Melissa is running really well this summer,” Stockhoff said. “She’s been running with Hillary, and they should finish first and second in a lot of races for us.”
It is hoped that the competition for the top spot is infectious and inspires the team’s other runners to steadily improve.
Maninder Mundi, a junior like Majewski, is back for her third season with the team. One of the team’s top runners last year, Mundi will also look to finish races somewhere between 22 and 23 minutes.
“Maninder is definitely capable of turning in some solid races,” Stockhoff said. “She did really well for us last year and she’s looked good so far this summer.”
Senior twins Megan and Jillian Martinez both return for their fourth seasons with the team and should provide the team with some additional depth.
“Jillian and Megan should pick up some points for us in the middle,” Stockhoff said. “Both will provide strong leadership for the younger runners on the team.”
The Mustangs will open the season on the road Sept. 16 with a tough challenge against Greater Middlesex Conference White Division foe Monroe. Kennedy will take on North Brunswick on Sept. 23 before its home opener against visiting South Plainfield on Oct. 1.
“The White Division is always a competitive division,” Stockhoff said. “Monroe, Woodbridge and South Plainfield will be the teams to beat again this year. Our goal is to have a winning season and to see all of our girls improve their times from last season. We also expect to have fun this fall.”