Going Deep

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Deep playoff runs don't happen automatically or easily. Physical, mental, and emotional inputs inform success. Success happens when coaches add value to the team and each player and when players buy in totally to the process. The championship Women's Soccer program at the University of North Carolina has a sign reading, "We Have One Agenda: Excellence." 

Many Melrose players have received recognition as All-State, All-Scholastic, All-League, and league Player of the Year. But the most successful teams achieved because of the contributions of less known but outstanding players who impacted critical games and their team in big moments. 

Melrose made its first appearance in the State Championship in the 2005 game, losing in five sets to Medfield. The unsung hero in the championship game was outside hitter Jen Cohane whose overall play helped rescue an 0-2, 16-23 deficit into a comeback third set win. 

Melrose had two All-State players in 2012, Brooke Bell and Sarah McGowan. But a State Championship arrived because of the contributions of a host of terrific contributors. Jen Cain was a fantastic all-around player who had an outstanding career at Merrimack. But Rachel Johnson was a less appreciated player part of the Great Wall (with Kayla Wyland) who had her three best offensive games in her final three playoff games, averaging nine kills/match. 

The players who 'step up' in the next month will inform the destiny of Melrose Volleyball 2017.