The Lane You Skate

"Dance with the one that brung 'ya."

Every team is different. Every season is different. Every year is different. 

Coaches develop strategies and themes that suit their strengths and the players. Early on the back row defense was ahead of the front row attack. Over time, that can change. 

One theme for successful teams is 'staying in their lane'. Newton North for example, maintains the SMASH philosophy of hitting intent. Players train first to hit the ball hard then later to figure out where. Ergo, when playing the Tigers, blocking is critical and Melrose has a couple of potential strong blocking pairs. 

Serving is another lane that sorts out limitations. Melrose has numerous servers with high potential to score points. It's helpful to have different types of serves and to be able to attack certain receivers.  

Time will tell. 

Lagniappe. 

Lagniappe 2. Crunchwrap casserole

Easier:

Buttered pan

Flour tortillas (layer top with butter and bottom)

Refried beans (first layer)

Shredded cheese (Mexican or gourmet 8 oz) - second layer and so on

14 oz drained diced tomatoes

Doritos or Tostitos (broken up) - optional

1/2 container of sour cream

1 1/4 pound sauteed ground beef or ground pork (fewer calories) with taco or fajita seasoning, salt and pepper to taste

Layer above, close the 'wrapper' and bake 375 deg for 30 minutes