The Branson School girls’ volleyball team clinched its second consecutive North Coast Section (NCS) Open Division title with a decisive victory over Marin Catholic on November 8, 2025. The match, held in Kentfield, California, saw Branson triumph in straight sets, with scores of 25-21, 27-25, and 25-22, reinforcing their dominance in the division.
Branson’s achievement marks their fifteenth section title in sixteen attempts across all divisions since their coach, Michelle Brazil, began her tenure in 2009. The Bulls showcased their formidable skills, executing a well-rounded game that left Marin Catholic struggling to keep pace.
The match began with Branson establishing a strong serving presence. Middle blocker Abby King and teammate Blake Cussen delivered multiple aces, demonstrating the effectiveness of their targeted serving strategy. “Serving tough is great, but there’s a lot of strategy in terms of disrupting offense,” Brazil noted, highlighting the team’s focus on precision and disruption.
Branson entered the tournament as the number four seed, having to overcome higher-ranked teams in the playoffs, including San Ramon Valley and Redwood, to reach the final. This year’s championship was particularly competitive, with Branson, Marin Catholic, and Redwood frequently exchanging wins throughout the season.
In pivotal moments of the match, Branson’s players exhibited resilience. King secured three crucial kills in the second set, helping the team recover from a 19-23 deficit to win 27-25. This critical victory shifted the momentum firmly in Branson’s favor, as they carried a 2-0 lead into the third set.
As the final set progressed, Marin Catholic fought hard to stay in the match, but Branson’s defense proved too strong. The Bulls effectively utilized their blocking skills, with King contributing six blocks during the match. The turning point came when Branson’s defensive efforts stifled Marin Catholic’s offense, allowing the Bulls to maintain control.
Branson’s libero, Lucy Tusher, led the team with 18 digs, while Ella Tsai contributed significantly with 17 kills and 16 digs. Cussen also made her mark with a solid performance that included 15 digs. The depth of talent across the team has been a defining characteristic of Branson’s success.
After sealing the championship, King reflected on the team’s camaraderie. “We all obviously love each other and we work really well together,” she stated, emphasizing how their off-court friendships enhance their on-court performance. This team spirit has been instrumental in their ability to perform under pressure, particularly against strong opponents like Marin Catholic.
With this victory, Branson continues to solidify its legacy in California high school volleyball. The Bulls now prepare for the upcoming State Playoffs, where they will compete against other top teams, including Marin Catholic, Redwood, and San Marin, who also qualified for the state tournament.
Branson’s consistent excellence in volleyball is a testament to their hard work, strategic execution, and strong team dynamics. As they look ahead, their sights are set on further accolades in the postseason, reinforcing their status as a powerhouse in the sport.
