Process and Progress: Melrose Tops Frontier, 3 - 0

A sports season blends process and progress and Melrose showed both in defeating Frontier 3-0 in a home matinee to raise its record to 6-1 (5-1 Middlesex League). 

Frontier arrived with multiple State Championship pelts on their horse, but despite a seniorless team, they showed why they are not far from being highly competitive, with a solid setter, excellent opposite, and developing outside hitters with excellent technique but inexperience. 

Meanwhile, Melrose compiled its best "intent" of the season, with stout defense and improving hitting, even lacking their top hitter Victoria Crovo (injury).

Numerous players had an excellent outing against Frontier, that may not appear in the Attack statistics. Offensively, Saoirse had a career day, Cat rebounded from illness, and Lily was her usual force at setter. KMac is consistently outstanding at libero and Katie D played superbly at defensive specialist. Lydia and Julia may not not have gotten big numbers but both defended well and hit with more intent. 

Steve Karampalas shares his photo magic. Thanks!  

The Cat is back! 

Cat got ups? 

Cat really does have ups.

Coach Celli tries to 'will' the ball in. 

Double block with good "airspace penetration" 

Erin tells Cat, "I told you not to look at me like that.

Frontier is no pushover and their hitters strike the ball with strong runups and intent. 

KMac feeling the "pancake pain." 

Katie D (Katie Donovan) had a spectacular day in the back row. 

Jill Mercer gets it done in the back row.  

Part of the "Brain Trust" from right to left (Ryan Schmitt, Athena Ziavras, Katie O'Neill)

Coach Scott Celli seeks yet another Middlesex League title. 

Emily DiPietro saw action at 'designated server'. 

Mary Kate Mahoney may become the libero of the future. 

Freshman Emma Randolph profiles physically and athletically as another Rachel Johnson. And as Martha Stewart might say, "that is a very good thing."

Daniela Cataldo brings another 'sister act' to Melrose, following in the footsteps of Marissa. 

There's a lot of volleyball to be played. 

Upcoming schedule with the focus on improving day by day.