Frattura takes 6th place in N.J. in javelin

Isabella Frattura of Sparta High School just completed a sophomore campaign that she won’t soon forget.

The second-year varsity track star placed sixth in the state in the javelin at the annual New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association (NJSIAA) Meet of Champions on Thursday, June 15 at Franklin High School in Somerset.

She had a throw of 121-7 to take sixth of 22 competing M of C athletes. Texas Tech-bound Leah Howard of Millville won the event with a heave of 159-4.

Competing at the New Balance Nationals at Franklin Field in Philadelphia on Sunday, June 18, Frattura placed 23rd of 49 competitors - and was the third-best sophomore - with an effort of 121-1.

“It was an amazing end to an amazing season,” she said via her Twitter account. “A huge thank you to all my coaches, family and teammates for helping me achieve this.”

Frattura competed this season in the 100-meter hurdles, long jump, discus, high jump and javelin events. She advanced to the Group 3 championships in high jump and javelin and was the lone Sparta qualifier for the M of C and New Balance Nationals.

“Isabella is an inspiration to her team, coaches and anyone she interacts with,” said Sparta girls track head coach Elizabeth Shaffer. “She surpasses expectations, defies limits and showcases an exceptional mastery of her crafts.

“She has consistently achieved remarkable results through her technique, dedication and natural talent, setting new standards and inspiring her teammates.”

Frattura’s best efforts this spring included 5-0 in the high jump, a leap of 16-8.5 in the long jump and a throw of 126-5 in the javelin, which is less than 5 feet shy of the school record. That season-best effort in the javelin came in the sectional championships June 3, when she won the event for the first time.

She also finished fourth in the high jump with an effort of 5-00.00 and 12th in the long jump with an effort of 15-11.25 at the sectionals.

Frattura earned the bronze medal in the javelin at the group championships June 10 with a throw of 115-07 and also placed 16th in the high jump with an effort of 5-00.

“Isabella was named 1st team NJAC American Division and was also Sparta’s 2023 MVP of the Field at our track banquet,” said Shaffer. “She continues to improve and is an exciting athlete to watch - especially because she is only a sophomore!”