Observation Post

Two games into the season aren't a lot of data points. Nonetheless, use what we have. 

Three standards:

Focus, aggressiveness, and consistency push execution. F->A->C->E 

Hit Dogs

Mo Vaughn (Red Sox) was the "Hit Dog." I'm a believer that it takes three consistent attackers to register a deep playoff run. Long time fans know that Melrose had three attackers with >= 200 kills in only one season. 2005. There are definite candidates for three hitters. 

Block Heads

You can't have too much blocking. The blocking improved with some key block kills from Sabrina "Air" McArt and Amelie Johnson. The success of the season pivots on playing "with force" both at the net and on the service line. 

Power Lefty

MVB has been looking for a power lefthander for a long time - the Sandy Koufax, Randy Johnson, or Steve Carlton. Kayla Wyland was more of a finesse lefty. Amelie Johnson has a chance to fill that slot. 

Service, Please

After two matches and seven sets, Sadie Smith has 68 assists, 9.7 per set. It won't get easier. Sadie has also built on 'attack mode' with a number of setter dumps and attacks on the second ball. 

No Quiet, Please

Audible court conversations are key and this is vital, especially for defensive organization. 

Defense Never Rests

The defense "stole" several points from the Devils last night. It's important to transition back to aggressive offense so that strong teams don't "hit back in the mouth." 

A Work in Progress

MVB is. We all are. Think about the "Galton Board" and its distribution of possible outcomes when considering a season. 

Welcome Back

MVB needs everyone to put out the fire. Ella is a big loss. We'll see about her prognosis. Meanwhile, some game reps for Alisa only help as she is one of the top passers on the team and the "pass, set, hit" mantra matters mightily. Coach Scott Celli is practicing load management with several players. 

Patience and Not

Be patient for game reps and hungry for practice reps. "Repetitions make reputations." Challenge the starters to be better and work to earn more opportunities while doing so. 

It's a long season and as you've seen so far, health and injury take their toll. Stay ready.