There's Got to Be a Morning After: Melrose-Barnstable Wrap

An athletic season, for both individuals and teams, comes down to improving and achieving. Each team builds a legacy, a resume' comprised of its body of work.

Melrose's 2009 edition rolls out version 1.1 next week, following the Lady Raiders stunning sweep of Barnstable. The locals travel to arch-rival Reading on Monday and host Stoneham Wednesday, seeking to gain momentum as the team steamrolls to the post-season.

Melrose volleyball gains another measure of respect, looking to build on its six consecutive appearances in the Division II North finals, including the 'three-peat' title run from 2003-2005. This year's team blends a veteran core of seniors with promising younger players. The big difference yesterday? We expect really high levels of play from the duo of Hannah Brickley and Colleen Hanscom, who hold the Melrose career records for kills and assists. What emerged was the full coming out party for the front court duo of Laura Irwin and Siena Mamayek who combined for sixteen kills and superlative defense at the net...the diversified offense of hitters Athena Ziavras and Jill Slabacheski (both underclassmen)...and the steady back row play from All-League libero Jess Farr, Alex Harlow, and presence of first-year starter sophomore Alyssa DiRaffaele.

The wheels go round and round...until they come off.

Noticeable yesterday was the relocation of the volleyball banners to the main gymnasium, the legacy of teams past and inspiration to future Lady Raiders. Few fans probably know about the commitment these athletes make to their sports, personal training, the running and weight lifting, off-season camps and Junior Olympics. Melrose has reason to be proud of what our young ladies have accomplished through the years and how they represent themselves both on and off the court, and most importantly, in the classroom.

Fight on!

Lady Raider Notes: A scout from Central Catholic reported to me their enthusiasm for the Central-Melrose rivalry that has evolved over the years. Melrose held the advantage a few years ago and Central has had the upper hand recently. Reportedly, Coach Gannon Paris looks forward to an annual meeting with the Lady Raiders.