Vail Christian girls volleyball’s new coach doesn’t plan on making 2023 a rebuilding year
Britney Branson takes over for Adina Petersmeyer, who led the Saints to a 21-5 record last season
Ryan Sederquist/Vail Daily
As former Battle Mountain and DI star Britney Branson takes over a Vail Christian girls volleyball team established by Cathy Alexander — who has the team’s home court named in her honor — and Adina Petersmeyer — who led the team to a 46-13 record in her final three years at the helm — she sees no reason to lower her predecessors’ standards.
“Our storyline for the 2023 season is developing a culture that establishes a foundation of teamwork, commitment and success on and off the court,” she stated.
“I have heard people say this will be a rebuilding year for Vail Christian and even though we lost a lot of seniors last year, I have so much confidence in our team this year.”
With the departure of Colorado Coaches of Girls’ Sports (CCGA) all-state outside hitter Grace Engleby, who led the team in aces and kills, as well as Daisy Palacio and Payton Vermeer, the Saints will lean on senior setter Logan Nobrega and junior libero Jessie Allen. The team’s two captains bring back significant experience.
“I expect them to lead our team on and off the court with their performance and leadership qualities,” Branson predicted.
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Freshman outside hitter Mary McClarrinon gives the Saints a dose of underclassmen offensive firepower.
“(She) is very talented and we are excited to see what she brings to our team (during) her rookie season,” Branson noted. “We have a lot of talent and potential on our team and expect everyone to have a huge impact on the court.”
“I had a very successful and special experience when I played for Battle Mountain and I want to give back to these and future student athletes and this community because that was my experience when I was their age,” she stated.
Having coached at Laramie Community College for four years as well as her alma mater, Northeastern, where she was the 2010 Colonial Athletic Association (CAA) player of the year, Branson is confident in her knowledge of what it takes to be successful.
“High school sports is my favorite level to coach because I believe the most growth happens from freshman year to senior year,” she stated. “Being a part of the experience is very rewarding.”
Branson sees the importance of getting athletes on board and committed to the expectation being presented to them, knowing it “will create challenges and growing opportunities that will be rewarding for everyone.”
“I am excited to be here and share my experiences and views of what is required to succeed and share the joys of achievement with my team along the way,” she said. “With any change there will be adjustments — lots of new and exciting things — and I look forward to getting the season started and getting these girls on the court.”
The Saints fell to Coal Ridge in three sets in their first game of the season last Friday. They’ll look to get into the win column next Tuesday at 5 p.m. when they welcome Vail Mountain to Edwards for the home opener. Born and raised in the valley, Branson relished matches against Eagle Valley as a prep star. Now a coach, she’s circled the VMS game on her calendar.
“Who doesn’t like a home rivalry match?” she rhetorically asked.
“I am excited to be a part of this rivalry and look forward to the traditions and excitement it brings to both schools.”
