General Observations Heading into the Stretch Run

Records can look deceiving. Strength of schedule, illness or injury, young players developing, "puck luck," and other factors impact games.

The MIAA adoption of margin of victory (maximum of 3) and opponent strength rewards "dominance and quality wins." Westborough's record stands on its own whereas Revere is undefeated, has strong margins of victory, but opponent ratings are the lowest in the top twenty. That doesn't mean Revere couldn't beat stronger teams, but it suggests league or scheduling weakness. "You have to play the schedule."

Melrose lost to the top team in Division 1 (Newton North will likely replace Lincoln-Sudbury who lost), Division 2 (Westborough), and Division 5 (Frontier). Melrose has also improved both in passing and blocking, accounting for its improvement. Coach Scott Celli schedules tough opposition, understanding "iron sharpens iron."  

Improvement follows both individual and team play. These are vulnerable to injury and illness, especially in the COVID era. Families make their own decisions but so far, the bivalent (new) COVID vaccines have not been widely used, which as an immunized physician I think is unfortunate. 

Every game matters in both standings and development. Reserve strength is terribly important. Harken back to 2005 when Melrose earned a berth in the State Championship. During a non-league match against Andover (2005 Division 1 State Champion runnerup), setter Amanda Hallett broke a shoelace. Taylor Pearson entered during equipment change and Melrose won 6 of 7 points, helping them to a 3-2 road win. Taylor stayed ready. 

Whether a broken shoelace or a case of influenza, reserve players need the skill and confidence to step in and impact the game. Nobody can presume that their number won't be called. 

In 2001, Drew Bledsoe was injured and an unknown second-year player, Tom Brady stepped in and led the Patriots to a championship. Get ready and stay ready for your number to be called. 

Don Miguel Ruiz's The Four Agreements expands four life concepts.

• Be impeccable with your word. 
• Don't take anything personally. 
• Don't make assumptions.
• Always do your best.  

Only one voice matters, Coach Celli. This reminds me of John Wooden's preseason letter to players. 

You now have a "signature win" in the defeat of an excellent Winchester team. What you do with it depends on you. 

Most people, adults or not, find it hard to place the good of the team above their own. The great Don Meyer said, "most parents would rather see their child be All-State than see the team win States." Teams capable of putting each other first often achieve special and lasting memories.