Learn from Wins and Losses...Celebrate Microvictories

Coach Scott Celli has always crafted a tough non-league schedule. The goal is winning the last game of the season, not having an undefeated regular season.

In 2005, Melrose faced Central (now D1), Andover (D1), AC, and North Andover. That prepared them for a deep playoff run with a 3-2 loss to Medfield in the title game. 

One key lesson from that season was the importance of having three dynamic attackers. That team had three attackers with over 200 kills. The state championship team of 2012 reinforced that concept with Sarah McGowan, Jen Cain, and Rachel Johnson. 

Take positive lessons away from every game, every practice, every day. 

Here are a few passages from Dr. Fergus Connolly's "59 Lessons."

Developing the 'third attacker' always matters. Melrose has multiple candidates to fight for those roles. 

Although everyone wants to improve everything, focus on consolidating your strengths first. If you're not going to play in the back row or serve, don't invest huge time on these areas. Everyone can build athleticism, game knowledge, and resilience. 

Younger players got irreplaceable experience with a run to the quarterfinals. Today's principal pays tomorrow's dividends. 

I'll have more to say about analytics in the future. 

Lagniappe. Karch Kiraly on serving.