Monday, September 25, 2006

Lady Raiders Coast in "The Igloo"

Bishop Fenwick opened Boston College in 1827, and following deteriorating relationships with the Boston authorities, moved his college in 1843 to Worcester, founding Holy Cross. His namesake, Bishop Fenwick High School visited the Lady Raiders today at "The Igloo" and got a warm, but brief reception from the Melrose Volleyballers.

The Lady Raiders, (4-1 Middlesex League, 5-1 Overall) recovering smartly from Friday's loss to Reading, put together a trio of solid games, winning 25-8, 25-14, and 25-12. Fenwick brought a group of hustling defenders, but struggled offensively, as Melrose maintained constant pressure throughout.

A solid team effort characterized the victory, led by consistent service (particularly strong by Kelsey Quinn), defense by Co-Captain Laura Dillon at libero, net defense by Leslie Hirschfeld, and some thunderous kills by Nicole Glavin, becoming a dominant offensive force at Middle Hitter. No weak links in the chain today, as everyone contributed.

Coach Celli was pleased to note continuing improvement as the team gains experience.

Melrose travels to Wilmington High School Friday to face off against the North Shore League rival.

Outside hitter Lauren Howe goes up for the spike.

Speaking of SPIKING (hitting tips from the Internet...lost the URL)

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adjustments must be made behind the 3m (spike line) - once inside 3m line = full speed toward net


  1. weight on right foot (left foot can be behind or in front of right foot)

  2. first step with left foot (weight goes to left leg)
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3. second step is a sideways step - step down when ball is in setter


  1. third long step almost at net - step to ball so it is at peak above right shoulder

  2. keep ball ahead of hitter - hitter must chase ball

  3. when starting third step- arms back (like wings)

  4. lift up - arms break at elbows

  5. feet slightly wider than knees

  6. when toes leave floor be ready to hit

  7. hips can torque (turn) into ball
The key points include the momentum derived by moving into the net, the arm swing into the lift, preparing for the perfect spike.

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