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Offense puts fans in the seats, but defense wins championships. I'm putting up a block sequence from the 2004 season against Lynnfield, which had been a formidable opponent for Melrose historically. Lynnfield had an All-League middle hitter.
Lynnfield sets up a middle attack (ball in the air), with Melrose preparing a single block, and Amanda Hallett (setter, attack line) coming in to defend the tip. There is space to the left corner.
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The Lynnfield attack at the moment of contact. The Melrose defender (Paula Sen) has just left the floor and not yet shaped the counterattacking block. Coverage is available for tips to either side.
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A fraction of a second later, the plan is only beginning to come together.
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The critical moment, maximal jump height, the hands and forearms above the net, fingers spread, and penetration of the 'airspace' that allows the block/kill to happen. Melrose ran off four consecutive blocks during the sequence to establish control of the tempo early.
Consistent blocking can frustrate the opposition and help the back row immeasurably. Melrose has a number of young, athletic blockers this season, who will determine whether it's nature or nurture in blocking.
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