The Last One Standing

Coaches are mother hens. We want the chicks to thrive regardless of the environment.

Having coached basketball players over a couple of decades, I saw many double as volleyball players, often exceptional as athleticism, skill, and toughness translate across sports. 

Years ago, Ryan Celli said that many of their top players came to volleyball knowing how to win. The core of the First (2003-2005) and Second (2009-2012) dynasties included a lot of basketball girls. Other standouts like Emma Randolph and Victoria Crovo also suffered our tutelage. 

Burying the lede, I note that the 'last one standing' is Sadie Jaggers. Coach Scott Celli asked for an impression years ago. I know I mentioned words like coachable, hard worker, and great teammate. She got the job. She's the last basketball player I coached playing for Melrose volleyball. (Helene Phelan was All-League for Bishop Fenwick). 

Her volleyball resume' reflects sports character. In addition to earning NHS membership, she's been a two-time captain, mentor to young players, Middlesex League All-Star, and most important, major contributor on consecutive sectional champions.

She recently passed 400 career kills and twice had twenty in the past week, learning a new position and not a stat hound.  

When Amos Alonzo Stagg was asked about his team, he replied, "Ask me in about twenty years. I'll be able to give you a better answer." 

I don't have to wait. 

Lagniappe. 

Lagniappe 2. Top teams have diversified attacks including back row attacks. Defending them is tough.