By Derrick Forsythe, Record Sports Editor
There was a time when Melanie Raterman was told she didn’t belong in the discus ring in which she now thrives. Thankfully, she didn’t listen. The Warrenton graduate was persistent, practicing her throwing skills relentlessly until getting noticed as a freshman in high school. Now college coaches are taking note of her ability. Raterman recently signed a letter of intent to throw for the Missouri State University track and field team. “I looked at distance, the coaches and athletes I’d be with,” said Raterman. “Missouri State seemed like a better fit for me.” After a successful junior season, she narrowed her choices down to MSU and Auburn. The school closest to home won her vote. The two-time state qualifier finished sixth among Class 3 discus throwers at last month’s MSHSAA Championships. But she will expand her talents in college, also competing in the hammer and weight throws. “She’ll be doing a few events other than what we’ve seen in high school,” said Warrenton Coach Mike Spoede. “We’ve got great expectations for her to succeed at that level.” Raterman’s personal record in the discus throw was 124 feet, but she realizes significant improvement will be necessary in order to excel at the collegiate level. “I’m really excited,” said Raterman. “I’m kind of nervous, because having gotten a scholarship, I want to improve my distances and do better than what they thought I could do.” A breakthrough following her sophomore season provided Raterman the opportunity to practice her throwing ability with elite coaches in Troy. “Practicing and getting my marks up enough so college coaches would look at me was definitely exciting,” said Raterman. “I kept my momentum going with that, and as my marks went up, I got more excited.” She has come a long way since receiving advice in middle school that could have altered her fate. “In eighth grade, I got told not to throw discus, because I’m not coordinated with my feet,” said Raterman. “Then, when I got into high school, Coach Moore made me throw discus, and I ended up liking it more.” Spoede certainly recognizes the contribution Raterman has made within the program. “Field points have been rare, so she’s been a big part of our team scoring,” said Spoede. “She’s been very valuable.” Melanie Raterman recently signed a letter of intent to throw discus for Missouri State University.
By Derrick Forsythe, Record Sports Editor
