i GIRLS NORDIC SKIER OF THE YEAR: Harriman put team 1st on state title run
Morning Sentinel
GIRLS NORDIC SKIER OF THE YEAR: Harriman put team 1st on state title run
BY DAVID MCLAUGHLIN Correspondent Kennebec Journal & Morning Sentinel 03/24/2009

Steve DeAngelis made a decision over the Christmas break that had a major impact on the Maranacook girls Nordic team's effort to become Class B state champions.

DeAngelis assigned senior Emily Harriman to work with freshman Abby Mace on her first day of classical skiing. Harriman enthusiastically agreed, even though her student had the ability to seriously threaten Harriman's spot as the team's top skier.

"Emily is an outstanding skier and was perfect for the job," DeAngelis said. "She did a great job of teaching Abby that day and selflessly did so throughout the season."

For her unselfish leadership and her strong finishes at the state meet, Harriman has been named the Kennebec Journal Girls Nordic Skier of the Year. Molly Lindsey of Winthrop and Mace were also considered.

Harriman was not threatened by the task, realizing by helping Mace she would help the Black Bears reach their goal. Throughout the season, Harriman continually put the team above herself.

Mace won the Class B Skimeister titles, with strong finishes in both Nordic races to help the Black Bears to the Class B state title. Harriman finished second in the classical race and fourth in the freestyle, while teammates Kara Witherill and Jillian Blouin also finished in the top 20.

"Emily understood clearly that to be team state champions we would need to bring along our younger skiers," DeAngelis said. "And she did just that."

"It was fun and totally made for a better team," Harriman said. "As much as I want to do really well, I would rather have someone from our own team win if it means our success."

From Christmas break to the championship portion of the season, the Black Bears showed significant improvement.

"As we got closer to states we actually thought we could make something of it," Harriman said. "I think we got better every race. Working together was exactly what we needed."

DeAngelis understands that in Harriman, he had not only a top-notch skier but a quality person as well.

"Emily is one of the most humble top-level athletes I have coached," DeAngelis said. "She competes hard during the race, but is always a good sport and carries herself in a way that her accomplishments speak for themselves."

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