Bits and Pieces

Many of the volleyball players have moved on to basketball season, looking to fashion new memories.

Andrea Basteri recognized freshman players.
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Jill Slabacheski comes to the dais.
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Parents are always a big part of the season, pre-season, and post-season.
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Underclassmen are always the future of Melrose volleyball.
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Take It to the Banquet

Don Norris shares his photographic expertise from the proverbial box to wire (greyhound racing term). Rather than finish the season abruptly, I'll publish some shots from time to time to try to keep the fires burning.

In Shrek, Eddie Murphy said, "everybody loves a parfait." Well, "everybody loves a victory cake."
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Anthony's always serves up a buffet-style feast.
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The young ladies always look quite different in their heels and boots.
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Parents get to enjoy a night out and celebrate their children's success.
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The Mayor came through with a matching set of Melrose Volleyball DYNASTY DRIVE signs for the gymnasium entrance.
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One of the feature events of the banquet is the naming of captains. Outgoing captain Athena Ziavras, joins this years other Captains Alyssa DiRaffaele and Jill Slabacheski, in welcoming the newest captain, Brooke Bell (she's the "economy-sized" one)...congratulations to all.

Dinner and a Movie

The Melrose volleyball program celebrated its season with a break-up dinner at Anthony's in Malden. Coach Scott Celli emceed the program, with assistance from varsity assistant Steve Wall and freshman coach Andrea
Basteri.

After a delicious buffet dinner, the coaches recognized their teams and players, and handed out some special honors. I'll review some of the highlights.

• Principal Joseph Dillon recognized the team's accomplishments. 
• Coach Celli recognized parents, players, and other contributors to the program. 
• Junior varsity player Jill MacInnes was named JV MVP on a vote of her peers.
• The JV had one of its best seasons, finishing 17-3.
• Varsity players received their letters, bars and stars (returning players/captains), MIAA Sectional championship certificates, and some season mementos.
• Coach Scott Celli thanked all of the players, recognizing their roles and accomplishments and noted that this was one of his favorite teams. 
• The coach displayed the newest 'banner', presented by the Mayor, the Melrose Volleyball "Dynasty Drive" sign to be placed at the gymnasium entrance. 
• The coaches handed out some special awards.
• Serving percentage (330/332), Brooke Bell
• Top defensive player , Rachel Johnson
• Unsung hero, Jen Cain
• Most improved, Kayla Wyland
• MVP, Athena Ziavras
• Coach's award, Athena Ziavras
• Presentation of MGVCA All-State plaque to Athena Ziavras
• Captains thank you to Athena 
• Athena's 'hail and farewell' address
• Highlight video by uber-media specialist Jeff Mate' 
• Explanation of the captaincy process, including application completion, secret ballot, and review of suitability with administration and teacher
• Naming of third captain (in addition to returning captains Jill Slabacheski, Alyssa DiRaffaele)...Brooke Bell (congratulations to Brooke)