The "Stay Ready" group offers a crucial role on a team. Depth creates an "antifragile" state...as the "next person up" mentality roots.
Teams don't have a "Break Glass in Case of Emergency" function. And it happens.
2024: In the last game of the regular season, Caroline Higonenq suffered a serious, season-ending injury. Who stepped up to fill the outside hitter spot? Freshman Sadie Smith stepped in with eight kills in the first round playoff win over Somerset.
2004: In the State semifinal, Coach Scott Celli had to make a defensive substitution, bringing sophomore Laura Dillon on as a DS. She played credibly with limited experience.
2005: Melrose faced eventual D1 Finalist Andover on a Saturday afternoon. Setter Amanda Hallett broke a shoelace. Taylor Pearson came in cold off the bench, helping win six of seven points. Melrose prevailed 3-2 that day.
2009: As I recall, powerful outside hitter Laura Irwin suffered postseason injury, a critical loss, especially late in the season.
You can't know when injury, illness, or struggle will ask you to step up and contribute. And you have to be ready for it. Don't look further than this season. Ella's injury brought Amelie into the lineup. She is third on the team with 91 kills and adds blocking force, often alongside Sabrina as a potent blocking pair. Watch film and see how often hitters either so soft or hit long.
How do you stay ready?
- Practice hard every day.
- Prepare as though you are the starter.
- Do extra conditioning (either jumping rope or sprints).
- Pay attention during games for your possible role.
- Be fully engaged on the sideline.
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