Decision Making: The Evolution of Melrose Volleyball

Melrose traveled to Winchester and came away with a straight set victory over a stubborn host, 25-13, 25-14, and 25-13.

Melrose got off to a sluggish start in game one, trailing 6-2 behind some sloppy offensive play as the hitters looked to get into gear (Jeff Mate' provided the video). Melrose then ran off a 17-2 run behind a terrific service run by Sarah McGowan including a pair of aces. This spurt featured three kills from Senior Captain Athena Ziavras.

Late in the game, Jill Slabacheski went on a killing spree with four kills among the final eight points. Athena and Jill each had four kills for the game among thirteen for Melrose.

The game encapsulated some of the features that have characterized Melrose volleyball:

• Historically, the team has often come out slowly, in the "feeling out" adjustment process. 
• The overall passing game has improved dramatically through the years. The setters no longer have to run down passes like frisbee-catching dogs, and that tends to improve the second pass leading to the attack. 
• The maturation process of the "big hitters" accelerates with better passing. 
• More volleyball experience at younger ages produces more offensive and attacking players who can recognize problems and make quick decisions to correct them. In the past, only the 'elite' players, destined to be All-Scholastics made these adjustments. In the first game, young players Rachel Johnson and Jen Cain both effected deflections that many players in the past would not have created.
• Fans should recognize the development of setter Brooke Bell, who seldom makes overpasses, is a solid defender, finds the proper passing angles, and identifies 'dink' opportunities without forcing them.  Although only a sophomore, she makes the team run. I am willing to predict that she will be an all-state player sooner rather than later. 
• At your service. Overall, the team has a number of offensive servers who create headaches for the defense. In addition to Athena, Jill, and Alyssa, Sarah has developed a vicious variety of serves. 

Game two saw more control from Melrose, with a quick 5-2 lead and gradual extension. Winchester narrowed the gap to 16-12, but a 9-2 run closed out the Sachems. Melrose unofficially had 11 kills for the game, 2 service errors and several blocks. Alyssa added four kills, Jill three, and Athena two.

Melrose revved up the offense late in game three, with the game tied at 1,2,3, 4, 5, and 6 and Winchester leading 12-7.  A huge service run (fifteen points) from Brook catapulted the Lady Raiders to a 22-12 advantage and Sarah closed it out with an ace. Melrose added another 11 kills, including five for Athena and three for Brooke.

Game analysis: Winchester has continued to bring their skill level up admirably despite their relative inexperience (two years) in volleyball. They don't have the big hitters or elite defenders needed to score and defend against the best teams, but they're making very good progress. Melrose continues to find its identity, while preparing for the iron in the upcoming schedule. There's still a lot of work to be done, especially developing power offense from the mid court, but the progress is palpable.