Who Let the Dogs Out...and More

Melrose held its annual volleyball banquet, a celebration of the present, but also of the past and the future.

The players received their letters and certificates as well as a variety of special awards. Some awards and selections come from the coaching staff, and others (e.g. MVP) come from team voting.

Coaches Scott Celli, Steve Wall, and Andrea Basteri presented and also shared a little information about what each girl contributed. I apologize in advance for any errors.

Varsity Awards:

MVP: Sarah McGowan
Coaches' Award: Brooke Bell
Unsung Hero: Rachel Johnson
Top Defender: Alyssa DiRaffaele
Top Serve Percentage: Brooke Bell
Most Improved: Jen Cain

MGVCA Division 2 All-State: Brooke Bell, Sarah McGowan
Boston Globe All-Scholastic: Brooke Bell
Boston Herald All-Scholastic: Brooke Bell, Sarah McGowan
Middlesex League All-Star: Alyssa DiRaffaele, Brooke Bell, Sarah McGowan, Jen Cain

Junior Varsity:

MVP: Shannon Tarpey
Most Improved: Kaitlin Carson

Brooke Bell rendered poetic tribute to the seniors.


I serious recommend NOT watching the whole video.

The team handed down a variety of traditions, including:

• The pre-game coordinate clap, to Kayla Wyland
• The post-game brownies, remain with Sydney Doherty
• "The Lollipops", to Jill "J-Mac" MacInnes
• The "Who Let the Dogs Out" cheer to Shannon Tarpey

Jeff Mate' produced a stunning tribute video (will probably appear on YouTube.com in the near future). 

Coach Scott Celli announced the open competition for all positions, AND named the new tri-captains based on team vote:

The 2012 captains include returnee Brooke Bell, Sarah McGowan, and Amanda Commito.