We've recently learned from the National Football League that officials aren't commodities, aren't fungible like cardboard packaging. If anything, the lockout helped reinforce the importance of celebrating a competitive landscape and branding. High school sports share those qualities. 

Through the indefatigable efforts of its coaches, players, and their families, Melrose volleyball has achieved excellence (nine consecutive sectional championship appearances, six titles). Great community support nurtures the vision and sacrifice within the program. The Coach is a Hall of Famer. The girls are young people in whom you can take great pride. The community turns out All-State players with astounding regularity. Some area people call it a "legacy program".

Coach Scott Celli puts it simply, "we're not here to win every game, we're here to win our last game." 

All of this brings the 9-0 Lady Raiders, third ranked in The Boston Globe poll to Monday. Sometime between about 6:15 and 6:30, Melrose and Division 1 power Central Catholic, face off (at the Veterans Memorial Middle School Gymnasium) in part to determine supremacy in the North. Both teams bring outstanding tradition, coaching, and superior athletes in a friendly yet intense atmosphere. 

If you haven't taken in a volleyball match, come on down. If you have younger girls who haven't caught the fever, bring them along. If you're already a fan and love great volleyball, see you there.