Melani Schmidt
Norwin High School
Junior
Events: 100m, 200m, 400m, & 4×100
Favorite Invitational: Butler Invite

Can you walk us through your journey in track and field? How did you discover your passion for the sport, and what events do you specialize in?
Ever since I was a kid, track and field has always been my passion; track was always the answer for me. I knew that this sport was my thing from a very young age. It all really started with breaking 50-meter school records in elementary school gym class and being the fastest one in the class. I sometimes like to say the track chose me. I also discovered my passion for the sport through my older brother Pedro. He helped get me into speed training. He’s a great football/track athlete and my role model. I was always following in his footsteps and trying to be as good as him. My track and field career started when I was 11 years old in 5th grade in a summer club. I specialize in short sprints: 100m, 200m, and 400m. The 400m is my main event.

Is there a specific race or competition you’re particularly proud of?
As of now, I’m most proud of my 400m with a time of 58.7. I love running the 400m. It’s not an easy race, and you must have the mentality for it. When you’re running down the last stretch of the 400m, it simply comes down to who wants it more; you have to leave everything you have on the track. The art of the race is incredible, as it shows not only physical power and strength but mental as well. I personally see potential within myself for the 400m, and I’m going to continue to work hard every single day, practice consistency, and achieve greatness in the 400m. I’m proud of my 400m, but not satisfied. There’s always room for improvement and more to accomplish.

How do you approach mental preparation before a race, and do you have any pre-race rituals?
One thing that has always helped me before a race is simply imagining myself doing what I want to do and then believing that I can do it. I firmly believe if you put your mind to something, you can do it. Confidence is key. You can achieve anything with the right mindset. I wouldn’t be where I am now without God, so I like to take time to pray and talk to God before I run. I also like to listen to music to help me mentally prepare; I love my headphones. A good song is beneficial for me.

Can you share a challenging moment in your track and field journey and how you overcame it?
A challenging moment in my track and field career was when I was injured in my freshman year and didn’t get an outdoor season. I overcame it by letting myself heal and then getting right back into it, working harder than ever. It made me love the sport even more and appreciate good health.

In your opinion, what makes track and field a unique and rewarding sport, and how has it shaped your character and values?
Track and field is one of the greatest sports. It encompasses many different events and types of athletes. It can be an individual sport but also a team sport at the same time, and the fact that you can have both in one sport is an art. It’s rewarding to see not only myself but also my team better themselves each and every day. I love seeing my teammates succeed and reach their goals. My team isn’t just a team; they’re my family. Track and field isn’t just a sport to me; it has shaped my character and is a main priority in my life. Choosing to be a part of this sport is the best thing that has ever happened to me. It has shown me how valuable hard work and dedication are: if you want something, work for it because many others want the same thing. Nothing in this sport is easy, but it’s possible.

Norwin junior Melani Schmidt is establishing herself as one of the top all-around female sprinters in the WPIAL. She is currently ranked #2 in the 100m, #1 in the 200m, and #4 in the 400m (AAA). With each invitational, Melani rises to the occasion when the stakes are higher, showcasing her sprinting ability. Heading into the final month of her junior season, I can see Melani breaking the 25-second mark in the 200-meter dash and getting into the mid-57 range in the 400m by the WPIAL Finals.

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