Skilz

Volleyball isn't rocket science. That isn't to say that Melrose hasn't had its share of terrific student athletes. It's about developing core skills, the so-called six skills.

• Passing
• Setting
• Attacking (hitting)
• Serving
• Blocking
• Digging 

The skills have improved because the girls are playing younger, playing more (many virtually year-round), and developing more skills and instincts because of it. Having an affable, experienced, talented coaching staff also has a major impact by recruiting and retaining youngsters to the sport.

Last season, improved aggressive serving, especially from Cassidy Barbaro and Sarah McGowan made a huge impact down the stretch. The "risk-reward" equation turned favorable because both got more aces than service errors.

Today, I wanted to mention some of the premier back row defenders of Melrose's past and present. The back row defense coordinates with the front row blockers, who can mitigate strong attacks, giving the back row improved opportunity to 1) keep the ball in play and 2) make quality passes - giving the setters a better chance to deliver the goods to the attackers.

Invariably, I will overlook good players, and certainly that is not my intention. Apologies to anyone I've omitted...and with seven trips to the Final Four, that's a number of back row players.

Kerry Dillon was under-recognized as an early superior defender in the back. K-Dill was lightening quick to the ball and kept a lot of tough attacks in play.

The next 'iteration' of superior back row play came from Hannah Brickley, one of the top athletes in Melrose history and three time all-state player. Playing alongside her in the back was Jess Farr, another very talented and steady digger and All-League player.

Next up was Alyssa DiRaffaele, who developed into a quality player with a wicked serve and Middlesex League MVP resume'. She helped lead her team to a state final.

That brings us to last year's team, which had the best back row in Melrose history led by Jill MacInnes, but ably assisted by Amanda Commito, Jen Cain, and Allie Nolan. J-Mac, as libero, was the leader of the group, with a tremendous number of athletic plays, consequent to her athleticism and physicality. Jill and Allie return as captains this year (as well as Cassidy), with a number of players who will compete for time in the back row. Melrose fans have a lot to look forward to as the overall quality of defensive play continues to improve over the years.