Melrose Volleyball Tradition, Then and Now

Photos courtesy of Don Norris. Click photos to ENLARGE. Best viewed with FIREFOX.

Melrose has a rich tradition of volleyball dating back almost thirty years. Today's players create memories for themselves, their families, and the community, just as former players did.

Don LeSaffre dug out folders of the '78 and '79 USVBA national tournaments in Texas and Ohio. The 1978 New England Masters team that played in the El Paso event. Four of the players are from Melrose:

Number 13, Herb Emery, then of East Foster Street, now of Maine. Number 1, Don LeSaffre of the Daniels-LeSaffre family, now of Wakefield; Number 3 at top right is Don Norris of Spear Street, and finally, the late Eddie Austras of Brazil Street. Other members are 11, Don Knight of Framingham; Number 8, John David of Worcester; and Number 9, the late Vito Eikinas of Randolph.

We didn't win anything and were knocked out in the first round -- but we went there, played, and watched the very best players in the nation competing. One day I was seated in the stands watching the women practice, and Flo Hyman -- voted best player in the '77 games -- sat beside me. We chatted for quite a while, while watching Debbie Green setting her club. What magic!

Bill Hirschfeld looks on with Melrose Athletic Director Pat Ruggiero
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Some younger fans might be future Lady Raiders
__________________________________________________________________________________As always, the Junior Varsity has some future contributors, including Athena who enjoys the moment.
__________________________________________________________________________________A pensive Coach Scott Celli reflects on the action.
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Aaaacccee!
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From left, Alex Harlow, Les Hirschfeld, and libero Jess Farr
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Defender Lauren Howe prepares to serve
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Alex Harlow is yet another of the young players helping Melrose continue its winning tradition
__________________________________________________________________________________Sophomore Hannah Brickley's outstanding play has come as no surprise to those who watched her last season.
_________________________________________________________________________________Nicole Glavin knows when to smash them, and when to dink and dunk
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Setter Colleen Hanscom's athleticism and poise have helped Melrose to a 9-0 start.
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Another solid victory for the girls in the red and white. Gina Ciccone congratulates Hannah (25).
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