The Branson School girls volleyball team solidified its dominance in the North Coast Section (NCS) by winning their second consecutive Open Division title on November 8, 2025. The Bulls achieved a decisive victory over Marin Catholic, claiming the championship in straight sets with scores of 25-21, 27-25, and 25-22.
Branson’s triumph in this match, held in Kentfield, California, marked the school’s 15th section title in just 16 attempts across all divisions. The victory showcased the team’s resilience and skill, as they overcame a tough opponent to maintain their winning streak.
“It’s amazing,” said Branson middle blocker Abby King, reflecting on the team’s hard work throughout the season. “We really wanted to win, and we had that same attitude today.” The Bulls entered the tournament as the No. 4 seed, demonstrating their ability to rise to the occasion by defeating top-ranked teams such as Redwood and Marin Catholic en route to the championship.
A Legacy of Success
Branson’s success has been consistent since the arrival of coach Michelle Brazil in 2009. Under her leadership, the team has become a formidable force, with the only exception being a runner-up finish in 2017. The introduction of the Open Division last season established the Bulls as the only team to hold this title so far.
Brazil highlighted the competitive nature of this year’s playoffs, noting, “It’s really just who is playing the best at that moment. Anyone can beat anyone.” This unpredictability added excitement to the championship matches, making the stakes even higher.
In the final, Branson displayed a well-rounded performance. The team excelled in serving, with King and Blake Cussen both contributing aces early in the match. The strategic approach to serving was a focal point during practice, aiming to disrupt the opponent’s offense effectively. “We kept the other team out of system and we made their lives really hard,” said setter Lily Gross.
Key Contributions in the Final
Branson’s offensive strategy was spearheaded by strong performances from its hitters. Ella Tsai led the team with 17 kills, while King added 13 kills and Cussen contributed eight. King’s pivotal plays in the second set, including three crucial kills while trailing 19-23, helped the Bulls secure a vital 27-25 victory in that set.
Defensively, Branson was equally impressive. The team managed to maintain focus against Marin Catholic’s aggressive plays, with libero Lucy Tusher leading the way with 18 digs. Tsai and Cussen also made significant contributions on defense, allowing Branson to keep its composure under pressure.
The decisive moments in the third set highlighted Branson’s defensive prowess. After a critical point at 18-18, King delivered a powerful block that shifted the momentum back to the Bulls. A series of strong blocks from King and others ensured that Branson maintained the lead, ultimately sealing the match with a final kill from Tsai.
“Every aspect of our game was showcased tonight,” Brazil commented following the match. “We did an amazing job not only serving tough but also executing our strategy effectively.”
This latest victory confirmed Branson’s status as a powerhouse in California high school volleyball, as the team now prepares for the upcoming state playoffs, with the seeding meeting scheduled for the following Sunday. With their impressive track record, the Bulls will undoubtedly be a team to watch in the weeks ahead.
