Melrose has completed about a quarter of its season (anticipating a long post-season run), and numerous observations come to mind.
The team has improved in every facet of the game
The offense has a much higher hitting percentage
The first pass success to setter Colleen Hanscom continues to improve
In additional to improved team defense, many individuals have stepped up their defense to a high level, particularly Jess Farr, Laura Irwin, and Siena Mamayek
Although the team starts five seniors, it has paradoxically also gotten younger with a pair of sophomores (Jill Slabacheski, Allysa DiRaffaele) and freshmen (Amanda Commito, Brooke Bell), all of whom would start for most Middlesex League teams.
The entire team is playing at a high level with great enthusiasm.
What to look for going forward?
Can the Middlesex League competition improve and make for more interesting matches the second half of the season?
Will there be any unexpected events between now and playoff time, such as incremental player development?
How will the Lady Raiders fare against the "iron" of the schedule, as they still have three undefeated teams on the nonleague schedule, Central Catholic, Barnstable, and Canton?
If you wonder why Melrose has enjoyed such a run, then know the many reasons.
Coaching
Surging interest in youth volleyball. Ideally, a year-round volleyball facility will emerge along with more coaches
Nonspecific player development: YMCA memberships, personal trainers, player workouts
Sport-specific development with off-season participation in camps and travel volleyball programs
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