Thursday, June 29, 2023

Post 2700: "Success Leaves Fingerprints"

The opinions expressed on the blog are solely mine. They do not reflect those of the City of Melrose, Melrose School Department, Melrose High School, or the Athletic Department.  

Since 2003, during twenty seasons, Melrose has won ten sectional titles and a State Championship. How?

1. Players. Melrose developed terrific players that know how to win and have extensive playoff experience. Seventeen have earned All-State status

2. Coaching. "Every day is player development day." I've heard people say, "Any idiot with a whistle can coach." Little could be further from the truth. Coaches help players write their narrative. They take them where they could not go alone. Coach Scott Celli achieved Hall of Fame honors. 

3. Culture. Everyone understands what is best for the team comes first. "This is not a union job."

4. Collaboration. The best players make everyone around them better. It reflects the sign in the UNC Women's Soccer room: 

Excellence Is Our Only Agenda 

5. Commitment. Offseason play is widespread with more players at higher levels.

6. Meritocracy. If your play gives Melrose the best chance to win, you play. It doesn't matter whether you're a freshman or senior captain.

7. Consistency. The style of play, offensively and defensively, doesn't change. Coach Celli doesn't chase fads or change strategy easily. 

8. Scheduling. "Iron sharpens iron." Top competition (champions and finalists in multiple divisions) prepares the team for tough playoff competitors. The Middlesex League improves every year. 

9. Depth. Melrose has reserve players who could get more playing time at many teams in the Middlesex League. Their 'practice toughness' prepares the team for top league and non-league games.

10.Urgency. The team 'shows up' and competes at a high level, especially against better competition. 

Ask yourself, "what fingerprints am I leaving as precursors to success?"

Lagniappe. Work on enhancing concentration. 


Lagniappe 2. Impact the game. 

No comments: