Solid Start

Melrose hosted a mature North Andover team in the sweltering MVMMS Gym and gained valuable experience and exceeded expectations one week into the preseason. 

Additionally, Melrose missed the veteran presence of Emma Randolph and Mary Kate Mahoney, two key contributors on last year's State Finalists. 

Coach Scott Celli substituted liberally and newcomers Sofia Centrella, Leah Heafey, and Autumn Whalen got valuable experience on the outside and setter respectively. 

Nicole Abbott sported the white libero jersey and got heavy duty in the heat. Junior Erin Torpey was solid both offensively and defensively, showing her experience. 

Returnees Grace Davis, Marie Maher, and Claire Albuja got good looks on the outside and defending. 

Sophomore Kiki Kiernan and freshman Whalen both played competitively as they battle to assume the setter position. 

Melrose showed strength in the middle as sophomores Emily Hudson and Sam Dewey looked comfortable and confident both hitting and blocking. 

The defensive coverage and communication looked ahead of schedule. Relatively few balls fell in without aggressive defensive play. 

Melrose returns to practice tomorrow as they prepare to host Sunday's first local PlayDay against strong area teams (9:00-3:00).

Lady Raider Notes: Former longtime assistant Steve Wall returned in a different role, working the game flawlessly as a Massachusetts volleyball official.