Thursday, October 26, 2023

Underdog Doesn't Mean "No Shot"

Underdog wins litter the graveyards of self-proclaimed champions. 

In 1980, the US Olympic Hockey Team defeated the mighty Soviet Union team at Lake Placid. Nobody game them a shot. 

The Patriots 2002 victory over the Rams' Greatest Show on Turf epitomized the underdog story.

Melrose faced 22-0 Arlington Catholic in the 2003 sectional volleyball finals. AC had not lost a set during the season and had a pair of 6'2" middle hitters. Melrose the Underdog? Yes. Final? Melrose 3 AC 0. 

Barnstable, THE program of volleyball domination came to Melrose in 2009 after having swept Melrose in 2008. Melrose the Underdog? Yes. Final? Melrose 3 Barnstable 0.

When confronted by an underdog situation, remember the "COTE of Arms" of Weisinger and Pawliw-Fry

  • Confidence - you can only be as good as you believe.
  • Optimism - anything is possible.
  • Tenacity - never give up.
  • Enthusiasm - enjoy the moment; be excited not nervous.

If you don't believe you have a chance at Newton North, why get on the bus? Know that you will face strong serves and must block aggressively against a power hitting team. Do your job. 

Lagniappe. Play better. 




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