"Within each of us lies a form, a talent or a gift that we can develop, if we just pay attention." Dick Fosbury

Building on a steady progression of track accomplishments over the course of four years, Mel achieved the ultimate honor--All-American--in 1965, his senior year. As a high-jumper he won seven state championships, clearing 6 feet, 7 3/4 inches in 1965, a state and school record. He won the CIAC high jump championship five times and the long jump championship twice, and he once reached 44 feet 5 inches in the triple jump.

Mel was a consistent scorer and amassed 380 points in his high school career. Mel finished third in high jump in the Golden West competition, considered the national championship meet for high school track.

Mel returned to Hartford High as track coach and led the team to the CIAC State Championship in 1990. His peers consider him one of the best jumping coaches in the country. He has coached student athletes from throughout the state, including his son Omari, who holds the state and HPHS high jump record, 7 feet, 1/4 inch.