Melrose Volleyball 2023, Q and A

"It's not who starts, it's who finishes." - Sonny Lane, former Melrose Athletic Director, New England Basketball Hall of Fame Member

Making the team isn't easy. It should never be enough. Strive to earn a role to compete during the big moments. 

Dust covers the crystal ball, but let's share questions about the 2023 season. 

1. Where do the kills arise? It seems as though every season, Melrose has to replace 400 to 500 kills. It's actually 651 with 338 from Gia Vlajkovic, 198 from Chloe Gentile, and 115 from Anna Shoemaker. The best initial guess is with bunches of kills from senior captain Sadie Jaggers and sophomore Sabine Wenzel with her 10' 4" touch. 

2. Who might ascend into the Swiss Army Knife role of 2012 Jennifer Cain? That's an impossible ask but senior Manon Marchais has a chance to boost her offensive role while continuing to play solid defense. 

3. How can anyone expect to fill Ruth Breen's setting shoes? With an entire offseason of setting, expect junior Leah Fowke to fill in seamlessly. Fowke brings added size to boost blocking power, soft hands, and a rocket serve reminiscent of Cassidy Barbaro. 

4. What's the back row going to look like? Senior captain Grace Gentile and junior Maggie Turner, both 'dirt dogs', have the inside track at two positions. 

5. How important is mentoring? Don't underestimate the importance of mentoring in player development. Sadie had great mentors in Elena Soukos and Gia Vlajkovic, both 'Tier 1' Melrose volleyball stars. Sadie will have an expanded leadership role in mentoring the next generation. 

6. How has the restructuring of the MIAA Power Ranking system impacted Melrose? Coach Scott Celli has always favored playing a competitive non-league schedule. Nothing changes this season as non-league competition features Newton North, Westborough, Frontier, and Central Catholic. Meanwhile the Middlesex League improves each season. 

7. Are there any 'substantial' rule changes in 2023? Judge for yourself. 

8. Should Melrose volleyball fans expect any surprises this season? With the remarkable evolution of offseason volleyball, expect continued growth in the quality of play. 

Lagniappe. "Stop and react."