Season Analysis: Top Ten

Nothing succeeds like success. The volleyball season flies by and we're into the final week.

10) Babies on board. The roster is young, with one senior, five juniors, seven sophomores, and two freshmen

Six of the top nine players (don't underestimate Sydney Doherty) are sophomores. This is the youngest championship team in Melrose volleyball history, by far. The sophomore class could develop into the best class ever at Melrose.

9) Two players expected to contribute heavily this season (Amanda and Brittany) missed virtually the whole season with injuries.

8) The team has 'peaked' at the right time, the post-season.

7) Never underestimate the role of Assistant Coach Steve Wall, another instructor and a tall force in practice scrimmages.

6) Infrastructure...the youth developmental program has never been better.

5) Steady as she goes. Brooke Bell has been steady, day in, day out.

4) Senior leadership counts, and Athena Ziavras has done the job.

3) Key lineup realignments produced more strength in both the front row and the back.

2) Coach Scott Celli has never done a better job. They game-planned against North Reading, and never quit against Bishop Fenwick when they could have packed their tent.

1) Knowing how to win. Tradition never graduates.