At the net

Andover: Three Merrimack Valley Conference all-stars return from last year’s 24-1 squad that captured the Division 1 North title.

Central Catholic: The Raiders (17-5) lost to Andover in the Division 1 North semifinals, but they were the only team to take a game from the Golden Warriors during the regular season.

Lynnfield: The Pioneers return nine players from last year’s Division 3 North championship squad which finished 20-5 overall. They are the only Division 3 program in the Cape Ann Small.

Bishop Fenwick: The Crusaders finished 20-3 after falling to Melrose in the Division 2 North championship. With four seniors, Fenwick has a tough schedule featuring North Reading and Central Catholic.

Reading: The Rockets welcome back two Middlesex League all-stars from a 20-4 squad that lost to Andover in the Division 1 North final.

5 Girls’ Players to Watch

Melissa Dalpozzo, Reading: As reigning Middlesex League MVP, the middle hitter finished the regular season with 40 serving aces, 93 digs, and averaged 2.5 kills per game.

Sarah Arvidson, Andover: The senior outside hitter delivered 150 kills and 170 digs last season.

Alexis Michal, Central Catholic: The Merrimack Valley Conference all-star is a phenomenal setter and handed out 12 assists against Andover in the D1 North semifinals.

Ava Bakhtyari, Andover: Another Merrimack Valley Conference all-star, she had 8 kills and 11 digs against Reading in the Division I North final.

Julia Goldstein, Lynnfield: The 5-foot-10 senior middle blocker is a returning Cape Ann all-star and has a powerful, accurate serve.

Compiled by Cat Calsolaro