In a thrilling five-set battle, Branchville’s volleyball team has secured a spot in the Class A state title game after a 3-2 win over Bamberg-Ehrhardt on Tuesday evening. The Lady Yellow Jackets fought tooth and nail to claim victory, winning the final set 15-10 and ultimately clinching the Lower State Championship. The victory is especially meaningful for Branchville, as it marks their return to the state championship match after a challenging season and a painful early exit in the previous playoffs.
Here's ads banner inside a post
A Battle of Determination and Resilience
The match was a true test of endurance, skill, and mental fortitude, with both teams exchanging momentum throughout the five sets. Branchville took the early lead by winning the first two sets with commanding scores of 25-18 and 25-16, looking poised to finish the match quickly. However, Bamberg-Ehrhardt, determined not to go down without a fight, made a fierce comeback in the third set, winning 25-20. They followed up with another win in the fourth set, 25-21, which forced the match into a decisive fifth set.
Here's ads banner inside a post
Despite the setbacks, Branchville remained focused and resilient, drawing on their experiences from the season and previous matches. Head coach Ron Nester expressed the emotional weight of this victory, highlighting how it felt to return to the championship stage after last season’s early exit.
“It means a lot to get back here. Last season was tough, and it made us question a lot of things,” Nester said after the match. “This team has been through a lot, but they’ve shown so much heart. It’s been a trial by fire for them, but they’ve come together as a team, and I couldn’t be prouder.”
Here's ads banner inside a post
Setbacks and Comebacks: A Story of Grit and Growth
The first two sets were an exciting showcase of Branchville’s power and precision. They played fast, aggressive volleyball, with their serves and attacks overwhelming Bamberg-Ehrhardt. But just when it seemed like the Lady Yellow Jackets were on the brink of closing out the match, Bamberg-Ehrhardt found their rhythm. In the third set, a series of unforced errors and missed opportunities gave Bamberg-Ehrhardt the opening they needed, and they capitalized on it.
Bamberg-Ehrhardt’s coach, Lauren Etheridge, was vocal about her team’s resilience. “We let our nerves get the best of us in the first two sets. We weren’t playing our game, but after that, we found our composure and showed what we could do,” Etheridge said. The Lady Red Raiders fought back with confidence, pushing the match to the fifth and final set, where every point felt like it could decide the outcome.
In the final set, Branchville was determined not to let history repeat itself. Coach Nester reminded his players to stay calm and focused, urging them to flush away any mistakes from earlier and keep pushing forward. “All season, we’ve stressed that we need to let go of the past – both our good and bad plays – and focus on what’s next,” he said. “We showed a lot of guts, grit. Our players stepped up when it mattered most.”
Anna Win Berry: The Game-Changer
When it came down to the wire, Anna Win Berry was the player who took the spotlight. With the match on the line, Berry delivered a critical serve that sealed the victory for Branchville. As the ball flew over the net for the final point, the gymnasium erupted in celebration.
Berry’s ability to step up in high-pressure moments has been a hallmark of her play throughout the season, and Tuesday’s match was no exception. Her service game was exceptional, and it was her calm demeanor in the face of pressure that helped guide Branchville to victory.
After the match, Berry and her teammates celebrated their win, reflecting on the long journey it took to get to this point. “We’ve all worked so hard for this, and it feels amazing to be back in the state championship,” Berry said. “I’m just glad I could do my part for the team.”
A Heartfelt Goodbye to Seniors
While Branchville’s victory was undoubtedly sweet, the loss was equally emotional for Bamberg-Ehrhardt, whose players and coaches were visibly devastated. For Coach Etheridge, it was an especially emotional moment, as she had coached many of her players since they were in fourth grade. “We’ve had such a great run this season, and I’m so proud of what these girls have accomplished,” Etheridge shared, fighting back tears. “It’s tough, but I told them to keep their heads up. They’ve worked hard all year, and they have nothing to be ashamed of.”
As Etheridge embraced her seniors, including Cailyn Youmans, Addi Jameson, Brantley Brown, Kathleen Evans, and Nalanie Eckels, she expressed gratitude for their leadership and dedication. These seniors, many of whom had been a part of the team for several years, were a central reason why Etheridge decided to step in as head coach this season.
“I had to step up for these girls,” Etheridge said. “They’ve given me everything this season, and I couldn’t be prouder of them. We have a lot of talent, and I can’t wait to see where they all go.”
Looking Ahead: Branchville Faces Lewisville for State Title
With this thrilling win, Branchville has earned a trip to the state championship game on Saturday, November 16, where they will face off against Lewisville for the Class A state title. The match will be held at Dreher High School in Columbia at 4:30 p.m., and Branchville is hungry for redemption after falling short in the state finals two years ago, where they were swept 3-0 by St. Joseph’s Catholic.
For Branchville, this championship match is not just about winning; it’s about proving to themselves and to their fans that they have what it takes to be the best. After a rollercoaster season, the Lady Yellow Jackets are more determined than ever to claim the state title they last won in 2019.
“We’ve been through so much this season, and to get back here, it’s just an amazing feeling,” Coach Nester reflected. “Now, we just have to focus on playing our game, staying together, and taking it one point at a time. This team deserves it.”
A Team Built on Resilience
As Branchville prepares for the ultimate test in their quest for the state title, their journey is a testament to the power of resilience, teamwork, and hard work. Through setbacks, challenges, and high-pressure moments, they have remained focused on their goal. Whether they win or lose on Saturday, Branchville’s incredible journey this season has already made its mark, and their fans can be sure that this is a team that will fight to the very end.
Branchville is back, and they’re ready to prove that they belong at the top. The state title game against Lewisville promises to be an unforgettable showdown, and for the Lady Yellow Jackets, it’s a chance to make history once again.
