Mar 18, 2003 By Jim Downey 2 min read

Connellsville coach Jeff Galand has a nice body of talented athletes, but not very much depth as the Lady Falcons look forward to the Section 2-AAA season. “We don’t have a great deal of depth, but our young girls are progressing better than we planned,” Galand said.

As with the boys, Galand believes the Lady Falcons will be strong in the distance, though the girls don’t have the depth. Shannon Kovack had a strong cross country season and Molly Mullaney is expected to have a breakthrough season to give Connellsville a strong 1-2 punch in the middle and long distances.

Lauren McCormick qualified for the WPIAL Class AAA individual finals as a freshman in the 400 last year and is hopeful to do the same this season. The sophomore will also run on the 1,600 relay in addition to the hurdles as needed.

The role of most versatile performer of the Lady Falcons undoubtedly falls to Christine Salandra. The senior runs both the 100 high and 300 intermediate hurdles and, according to Galand, “does everything from the 100 through the 800.”

“Christine is an asset. We can plug her in wherever we need her,” Galand said.

Christina Roadman is a well-rounded thrower, competing in all three events. The senior placed third in the discus last year. Galand spoke highly of his returning medal-winner.

“Christina is an overall thrower. She’s the No. 1 returning discus thrower in the state.”

Amanda Sines made great strides as a freshman last year and will be counted on heavily to complement Roadman in the pits.

Junior Marissa Leos gives the Lady Falcons a little bit of experience in the sprints, but Galand is keeping a watchful eye on Lasasha Taultan, a freshman, in the 100 and 200. Colleen McLaughlin gives Galand an experienced hand in the pole vault.

“It’s a matter of kids stepping up that are borderline, coming to practice and working hard,” Galand said.

According to Galand, Laurel Highlands is once again the team to beat with a watchful eye on Uniontown and Derry.