May 24, 2024 – Story by Ava DiCecca, photos by Joshua Ross
Hingham Sailing had a dominating season this year and found much success across the board, even against some very tough teams. To name a few, some of their biggest accomplishments this year include topping Sharon and Wellesley, teams they have struggled with in the past, and holding their now three-time title as the Linda Juliano Women’s Team Race champions. Furthermore, it was only their second season back in A Division and they still went undefeated in league play. They had great chemistry and a seasoned team this year which allowed them to come out on top again and again with some hard work.
Captain Sara Menesale had a lot to say about their successful season and what made the team accomplish so much this year. She stated, “a big part of it is definitely the coaching. Our head coach Joe Griffin is just so dedicated to the team. He really puts in 110% and that is reflected in all of our sailing.” She also complimented the assistant coaches and their devotion and the positive impact it had on the team. She went on to describe other keys to their outstanding season and how they managed to keep raising the bar, “I think the team pushes each other each practice. Everyone is working hard and trying their best because it overall makes us better as a whole.” Finally, she commented on what made the team special this year, “I think it’s our teamwork and our communication. Most of us have sailed our whole lives so we have the little things down but I think working as a team and all unifying to be one has been our success this year.”
Head coach Joe Griffin was equally as happy with how the season played out and was excited to see all the team accomplished. He commented that going into the season his goals were “to progress, do better, and be a little more successful. This year my mindset was … to raise the bar a little bit and compete a little more with some private schools… and also to do very well in our league and potentially win it.” They achieved winning their league with an undefeated season and added some more accomplishments to that list as well. Coach Griffin also discussed wanting to be invited to one of the top competitive races this season and while they did not originally qualify, they were high enough on the list to end up being asked to compete once some other competitors fell through. Looking ahead to next season, he stated “I think we can only really go up, we are trying to progress each year. We are losing 4 seniors but there’s a couple more coming up so our number of sailors should remain the same and I think the kids themselves have had a lot of sailing opportunities this year. They’ve all grown in skill and knowledge on our form of team racing and fleet racing so I think next year we stand a very good chance to do even better.”
This season was one for the books for Hingham sailing and it is clear they have set themselves up for success for years to come. They have done a good job building up the team and working hard to further their skills, allowing them to be confident going into next season. We should continue to expect great things from the program as they look to even top their success from this season.