Whenever an athlete has a breakout season, they deserve to be recognized as an MVP.
Chenille Eccleston from Wells High School made massive progress in her second season as a part of the Warriors’ track and field team. Her performance this season has earned the Journal Tribune MVP honors.
Eccleston competes in several events for Wells. Her most notable are: 100-meter, 200-meter, and 400-meter relay races. In all three of these races, Eccleston qualified for New England Championships.
Wells’ Chenille Eccleston (right) competes in the 200 meters at the Class C state meet. Joe Phelan/Kennebec Journal
In the 400 relay, Eccleston won a state title with the help of her teammates Bailey Morrison, Delaney McDonnell, and Lauren Dow. The title was the first since 1986 and broke a 16-year old record in the process.
This breakout season — which also included an individual Class C state title in the 100 meters — was something that Eccleston had reservations about because her freshman season saw some ups and downs. She battled through shin splints and was working her way back to her best shape.
“I was worried about not being in the best shape because last season was not as successful as this season,” said Eccleston.
Her coaching staff really pushed her to get out of her comfort zone and try more events as time went on. She began to feel more comfortable out on the track and the results showed it. She credits her coaches for pushing her to succeed.
“Once outdoor season came around, I was getting back into shape and my coach said I should start adding more events,” said Eccleston.
Eccleston added events, but her focus stayed within the 200-meter, 100-meter, and 400-meter relay races. That was where her talent and potential was most obvious. To be named MVP as just a sophomore, it is quite the accomplishment. Eccleston is extremely thankful for her support system.
“It feels great. I just want to thank my coaches, my father, and my family members,” said Eccleston.
With all these accomplishments in her sophomore year, Eccleston is only going to improve and potentially grow into one of Maine’s best runners.
— Sports Writer Brandon Eckles can be reached at beckles@journaltribune.com or at 282-1535 ext. 323. Follow the Journal Tribune Sports Department on Twitter @JournalTsports.
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