Taking It to the Next Level

Celtics GM and former coach Brad Stevens asks the key question, "what does my team need now?"

The 2023 season is in the rearview mirror. Top players completed their careers; opportunities arise for others to rise. 

In Above the Line, coach Urban Meyer talks about the difficulty of achieving 'escape velocity'. You don't want to live along Mediocrity Row. Melrose first escaped mediocrity in 2003 with its first sectional title. Don't go back. 

Multiple programs are on the rise in the Middlesex League. Wakefield will be better. Woburn was young and will improve. Burlington made it to the Final Eight. Winchester and Belmont are established programs. Melrose returns experienced player along the front and the back lines. 

It won't be easier along the way. Newton North had a freshman setter. Canton has a sophomore setter with over 1,000 assists already. 

At the banquet, Coach Scott Celli always emphasizes that every job is open. This is not a union job. There is no seniority system. If you're the best at a position, you play, freshman or senior. 

Ask yourself, "what is my MVB varsity skill?" In 2005, Michelle Foley earned time as a designated server. In 2012, Cassidy Barbaro's serving proficiency helped win a state title. Leah Fowke's primary role in 2022 was serving. This year, she emerged as a full time setter... #3 among Massachusetts juniors in assists, #4 among Division 2 setters in assists, #1 among ML12 players. 

That's seizing your opportunity. 

Last year a parent asked what a player has to do to play all-around like Elena Soukos in 2021 and Gia Vlajkovic in 2022? Impact winning when playing in both the front and the back row. Maybe someone emerges with the size, athleticism, and talent in 2024. Maybe not.