Every season has their most highly anticipated game; for girls’ varsity volleyball, Branson is the team to beat. Although the girls did not take home the victory on Oct. 12, their intense spirit and exhilarating fight was a joy to watch.
The game lasted four sets — Branson taking home the first (25-9), the second (25-18) and the fourth (25-16). Despite losing the first two sets, the third set was where Redwood shone, displaying the team’s immaculate energy, synergy and passion. The players on and off the court screamed, cheered and jumped, giving an energizing performance despite the loss.
The third set was a turning point; as Branson’s all-star lineup started to get wiped from exhaustion, the spirit that the Giants exuded lit up the whole gym floor with a new fire. Despite fleeting student sections, Redwood began to gain a significant lead with front-row hitters Maddy Wagner and Kate Sicklick blocking and killing ball after ball. The final score of the electrifying third set was 25-13, but it was too late for the girls to mount a big enough comeback.
During the fourth and final set, Branson felt revived and held the Giants in a tough position, where each small mistake led to a downward spiral in enthusiasm and morale.
Despite the technical loss, the Giants gained an impactful experience from the game. Nonetheless, they are granted another opportunity to prove themselves — as the Giants will face off against the Bulls once again next Friday, Oct. 20. Be sure to arrive on time; seats will fill fast — as this rematch will be a must-watch. Can they bring this newfound energy into this next game to win the Marin County Athletic League championship title?
