The Post-Season is Almost Here

Photos courtesy of Don Norris. Always click to enlarge and view the whole picture.

My daughters loved the post-season...playing the better teams, with the higher stakes, win or you're out...survive and advance. The playoffs give players a chance to step up under the bright lights and raise their game to their highest level.

And both as a parent and as a fan, I shared those sentiments. Time flies by, and each of those 31 playoffs games (15 volleyball, 16 basketball) becomes a more distant memory. For players participating in their first playoff game, know that you're just getting your feet wet. Many more are coming. For the newcomers and  veterans alike, carpe diem. 

As the 2010 version of Melrose volleyball takes the court tomorrow, embrace the experience and find your kefi (ask Athena). Leave nothing behind. 

Senior tri-captain Athena Ziavras.

Junior tri-captain Jill Slabacheski

Junior tri-captain Alyssa DiRaffaele

Junior defensive specialist Maggie Moriarty

Junior setter Rachael Wolley

Junior outside hitter Brittany Adelman (left) and Sophomore outside hitter Sydney Doherty (right)

Sophomore setter Brooke Bell

Sophomore middle blocker Rachel Johnson

Sophomore middle hitter Sarah McGowan

Sophomore opposite Jen Cain

Sophomore opposite Kayla Wyland

Sophomore defensive specialist Amanda Commito

Freshman defensive specialist Cassidy Barbaro

Rachel Ardizzoni freshman outside hitter, promoted to the playoff roster

Melrose enters the playoffs for the ninth consecutive year, seeking its eighth consecutive appearance in the Division 2 North sectional finals and their fifth D2 North title in eight years. Go for it!