High school girls’ volleyball teams across Massachusetts are adjusting to new setters this season, as key players from previous years have graduated or moved on. Several programs are embracing position changes to fill the crucial role of setter, a position responsible for directing the offense and making split-second decisions during play.
At Newton North, freshman Sydney Baugher stepped into the starting setter role for a Tigers team ranked 12th in the state and coming off five consecutive Division 1 final appearances. Baugher’s debut week included hard-fought five-set victories against two prominent opponents, showcasing her ability to manage the offense despite limited prior match experience.
Baugher, who previously supported the team as a young fan and assistant coach’s daughter, described the transition as both challenging and rewarding. “I was free and didn’t have much pressure because I was learning,” she said, emphasizing the support received from teammates who helped guide her through the nuances of setting. Newton North is currently 9-4 without former three-time Globe Player of the Year Sasha Selivan, who is now preparing for college at Colgate.
Junior captain Chiara Vitolo, a natural right-side hitter, has also embraced part-time setting duties. Under coach Nile Fox’s direction, Vitolo has worked to elevate the quality of her sets and leverage tactical variations to challenge opponents’ blocking schemes. Fox, who has experience coaching first-time setters at Newton North’s boys’ program, praised the leadership both Vitolo and Baugher have shown as the team transitions. He noted the loss of Selivan as significant but sees the current lineup as having strong potential moving forward.
Similarly, Lynn Classical has turned to senior Melisa Iriskic to replace their graduated setter Emma Chevalier. Iriskic, previously playing as a right side and defensive specialist, transitioned to setter early in the season. The Rams have thrived under her direction, maintaining a 10-0 record in Greater Boston League competition as they pursue their fourth consecutive league title. Coach Chris LeBlanc highlighted Iriskic’s efficiency and smart playmaking, particularly in directing more offense through middle blocker Salma Motassim, who recently recorded a career-high 11 kills in a sweep over Everett.
Chelmsford is also relying on a positional shift, with former middle blocker Alicia Marcal taking over setting duties for the Lions, currently ranked fifth with a 12-1 record. Marcal made an immediate impact, delivering 55 assists in her first start as a setter during a crucial five-set win over Andover. Her familiarity with front-row play and blocking enhances her setting approach, allowing her to manage tight passes and maintain offensive flow effectively. Senior teammate and 2025 Globe Player of the Year Kyra Ward praised Marcal’s dedication and work ethic, noting her commitment to early practices and preparation.
Coach Edgar Valdez acknowledged the inherent pressures of the setting position, which requires involvement in nearly every point and leaves little room for error. He commended Marcal for her composure and well-balanced playmaking as Chelmsford aims to build on last season’s deep playoff run.
As these programs adjust to new setters, the ability to quickly develop chemistry between setters and hitters remains pivotal. The experience gained this season by these emerging playmakers may prove vital in shaping their teams’ success in highly competitive varsity volleyball landscapes.