Melrose Volleyball History Update

The last seven years of Melrose volleyball have produced consistent success, to the point that along with Lady Raiders basketball, volleyball shares the athletic spotlight locally. Dedicated and talented players, top coaching, and fantastic community support have blended to produce five Middlesex League titles in six years and five consecutive appearances in the (sectional) Division II North championship, including a three-peat title run from 2003 to 2005.

Despite coming from the second SMALLEST city in Massachusetts, the volleyball program has emerged to be among the top programs in the state.

Coach Celli has built the team on a three step platform, attracting high caliber athletes, developing volleyball skills both in and out of season, and making volleyball important to the community.

This week's outstanding effort in the loss against Barnstable, which in recent years had previously won over 100 consecutive matches, marks another landmark in the development of the program.

Several contests have proven landmarks in the Scott Celli era. Melrose first emerged in late 2002 winning six of seven down the stretch, and extended it into the playoffs with a remarkable five set comeback in overtime against Dracut to win a playoff game.

In 2003, Melrose faced a superb Haverhill team and lost, but gained valuable experience that allowed them to capture their first Division II North title over Arlington Catholic and their 'twin towers' at Andover. AC had not lost a set during the season, yet Melrose captured a straight set win.

The rivalry with Reading reached a fever pitch in 2004, with Melrose tieing for the league title, but overwhelming the Rockets in their old high school bandbox gymnasium in the playoffs en route to their second D2 North title.

2005 brought a couple of notable games, a five set Saturday afternoon win against Division I powerhouse Andover on the road, an Andover team that would lose to Barnstable in the state championship game. Melrose took another step up in 2005 losing a five set comeback in the state title game against Medfield.

Thursday's contest at Barnstable launches another important milestone for the program. The expansion of the Middlesex League has reduced the opportunities for non-league superior competition, which is critical for team development. Only by competing against the top area and out-of-area competition can the team maximize its potential.

In addition to team success, the Lady Raiders once again have enjoyed great individual success. The North Shore and Middlesex League (ML) have named their post-season awards. Hannah Brickley becomes the third North Shore League (NSL) Player of the Year from Melrose, following in the footsteps of Marianne Foley (2003) and Paula Sen (2005).

• Hannah Brickley, middle hitter, "Best Six", NSL and ML all-star/Player of the Year
• Jess Farr, libero, NSL and ML all-star
• Colleen Hanscom, setter, NSL and ML all-star
• Laura Irwin, outside hitter, ML all-star
• Scott Celli, North Shore League Coach of the Year
  

Congratulations to all the young ladies and Coach Celli for their achievement and recognition.