Early Innings or Late?

Each team writes its own narrative. What happened in 2003, 2022, or October 2023 doesn't define the future. Players and coaches navigate the future not the past. 

It's easy to have a "Chicken Little" approach, the sky is falling after a loss.

Seniors Sadie Jaggers (All-Conference), Grace Gentile (All-Star), and Manon Marchais have been here multiple times. 

Melrose has rising stars in Leah Fowke (junior, All-Conference) and Sabine Wenzel (sophomore, All-Star) and a solid junior class with All-star potential headlined by Sofia Papatsoris, Maggie Turner, and Gigi Albuja. Junior Caroline Higonenq is back in action. 

There's still optimism surrounding sophomore Emme Boyer who is tall and athletic and you never know what players will emerge. The JVs made strides and rumor has it that the middle school has a strong class. 

Of course, paraphrasing Yogi Berra, "it's difficult to make predictions, especially about the future." 

For younger athletes, follow the paradigm:

• Build skill (offseason volleyball, home drills)
• Learn the game (Internet video sites like Elevate Yourself and Volley Country are exceptional)
• Enhance explosiveness (strength and conditioning)
• Raise mental toughness (mindfulness, experience)

Nothing works unless you do. 

Lagniappe. Work on your platform and platform skills.