"It has been really frustrating losing a lot of games," said Salinas, who has played varsity for four seasons. "We've been beating ourselves in most matches. But we aren't dead yet."
One plus for the Crimson has been the improved play of its bench. Since the beginning of the season, Lem's confidence in his subs has increased to the point that he will now make substitutions in every contest.
"The subs have improved, and they've gained a lot of experience over the year," Forman said. "We know they will give 100 percent every time they step into a game.
Last year the spikers, playing under an undergraduate coach, finished with a dismal 4-17 record. This season, newcomer Lem--hired after 10 years of service at Boston College--has effected a change in atmosphere, if not a noticeable change in record.
"We are definitely better than last year's team. We are also better than our record," Salinas said. "There is a lot of team spirit, a lot of the credit goes to Coach Lem. He's more professional than our last coaches."
And this weekend could be the first step in Harvard's bid for legitimacy in the Ivy League.
"I think we are going to do well in the Ivies," Lem said. "If not this year, definitely next year. We aren't going to be the doormat of the Ivy League anymore."