Ridolfi altered practices to fit with the team’s personality, channeling the players’ energy into a constructive use. He shifted his focus to competitive drills and enhanced the team’s group dynamic by making practices more team-oriented.
After the frustration and disappointment of past seasons, Ridolfi’s changes meant the players now looked forward to practicing and playing.
“Last year, we didn’t want to go to practice,” Fitz said. “It wasn’t fun. This year, we really enjoy playing—we want to be good.”
Ridolfi’s best asset is that he has been able to build strong relationships with his players while maintaining the authority he needs to manage the team. At times, he cracks jokes and acts like one of the players. But he knows when it’s time to get serious.
“Coach Ridolfi knows how to motivate us and get us fired up,” Freese said. “And if you like your coach, you’re more apt to listen to him.”
Perhaps most importantly, Ridolfi makes an effort to give everyone some playing time. He will often make situational substitutions at various points in the game. Freshman outsider hitter Brian Rapp, who does not start, is frequently inserted when the Crimson is serving with the game on the line.
“Last year, there were players who sat on the bench for the majority of the season,” said Freese. “[Ridolfi] keeps the whole team involved.”
The coach has also given the team more days off from practice, a seemingly counter-intuitive move that has paid dividends.
“The days off help because we get a day to refresh,” Fitz said. “Then we can push ourselves harder at practice.”
Ridolfi’s dedication, extensive knowledge, and experience have led the team to, arguably, its best season ever. Harvard hasn’t lost since it dropped its first three matches.
“The team has come a long way confidence-wise,” Ridolfi said. “Those three losses wouldn’t happen to us at this point in the season. ”
Ridolfi and his triumphant ways have transformed the men’s volleyball program.
“[Ridolfi] has brought the program from being almost nothing to being something big,” Ramos said. “He’s definitely the best coach I’ve ever had.”