Challenge

Melrose (6-1 overall) hosts Hamilton-Wenham (5-3) in a North Shore League tilt at Roosevelt School Gymnasium, Tuesday October 3rd, at 4 p.m. HW Coach Jill Pasquarelli has coached a number of Melrose players in the past on the Junior Olympics circuit. The Generals have faced a number of Melrose opponents this season, beating Lexington 3-2, topping Bishop Fenwick 3-1, edging Wilmington 3-2, and losing to Reading 3-0. However, they gave undefeated North Reading a battle, losing 3-2 and similarly fell to potent North Andover, Melrose's victim in last year's D2 North final, 3-1.

The Lady Raiders have gained valuable experience over the first third of the season, excelling defensively from the back row and from the service line, and growing in hitting power, passing, and net play.

Rachel Towle and Nicole Glavin have led the way at the net, aided by steady improvement from Lauren Howe, Leslie Hirschfeld, and freshman Hannah Brickley. Taylor Pearson has provided steadiness all year at setter. Gina Ciccone's return from injury has sparked the passing game, along with the defense of Laura Dillon and Sam Hamel. Kelsey Quinn has proven Melrose's most dominant server, with Allie Brussard coming on strong recently as a service specialist.

The Lady Raiders look forward to seeing a large and enthusiastic crowd as they grow in the middle third of another challenging schedule.

Lady Raider Notes: The girls held a very successful car wash at Melrose High School last Saturday, with great support from the Melrose community. Captains Rachel Towle and Laura Dillon led an enthusiastic group of V-Ballers in washing cars and sponsoring a raffle as a fundraiser for the volleyball program.