The Clarkston Wolves (30-6, MI) varsity volleyball team will face the Marian Mustangs (42-7, Bloomfield Hills, MI) in a neutral playoff match today at 5 p.m. This game is part of the 2024 Michigan High School Girls Volleyball Playoff Brackets for MHSAA Division 1.

Here’s what you need to know:

What: Michigan High School Volleyball
Who: Clarkston vs Marian
When: Tuesday, November 12, 2024
Time: 5 p.m
Bracket: 2024 Michigan High School Girls Volleyball Playoff Brackets: MHSAA – Division 1
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Game preview: Clarkston vs Marian

The 2024-2025 high school volleyball season has seen two teams rise to the top of Michigan’s volleyball ranks: Marian and Clarkston. Both programs boast impressive records and fierce determination as they compete for supremacy. With dominant wins and top-tier players, these two schools are setting the stage for an exciting rivalry.

Marian’s Solid Season

Marian enters the season with an overall record of 42-7, including a 3-1 league performance. Their non-league dominance is evident, with a remarkable 30-4 record in these games. Marian has been particularly impressive at home, where they remain undefeated with a 7-0 record. Their away record is equally strong, standing at 6-1. The team’s offensive prowess is led by standout players such as Izzy Busignani, who has amassed 508 kills this season, and Ashlyn Pelon, who leads the team in digs (398), serving aces (67), and receptions (532).

The Marian offense operates with precision, averaging 24.2 points per set, while the defense, led by Pelon, ensures that opponents rarely get a clean shot. As one of the most consistent teams in Michigan, Marian is positioned well for another strong postseason run.

Clarkston’s Unstoppable Momentum

Clarkston has been equally formidable, finishing with a 30-6 overall record. Their league record is perfect, going 8-0 in conference play. The team’s success is a testament to their well-rounded play, with a particularly strong performance on the road, where they hold a perfect 9-0 away record. With key players like Addison Newblatt (351 kills) and Marlie Smith (95 serving aces), Clarkston has shown that they can excel on both sides of the ball. Their balanced attack and defensive prowess, including Morgan Lozzi’s 268 digs, have made them a nightmare for opposing teams.

Clarkston’s average points per set is slightly lower than Marian’s at 23.6, but they have maintained a remarkable consistency, particularly in league play, where they have yet to lose a match. Clarkston’s ability to win in tough situations and their stellar play at home (7-1) shows that they are a serious contender for the state title.

Head-to-Head Showdown

Both teams have had notable victories over common opponents, showing their strength across the state. Marian faced off against schools like Farmington, Brighton, and Lake Orion, defeating all in straight sets except for a single 2-1 win against Brighton. Clarkston, similarly, has been dominant against similar competition, with victories over Brighton, Lake Fenton, and Bloomfield Hills.

When comparing the two teams’ head-to-head performance, both squads hold identical records against common opponents (14-1 for Marian and 13-4 for Clarkston). This further solidifies their status as two of the top teams in the state.

Record Breakdown

• Marian (24-25)
  • Overall: 42-7
  • League: 3-1
  • Non-League: 30-4
  • Home: 7-0
  • Away: 6-1
  • Neutral: 29-6
  • Playoff: 0-1
  • In-State: 38-7
  • Out-of-State: 4-0
• Clarkston (24-25)
  • Overall: 30-6
  • League: 8-0
  • Non-League: 17-1
  • Home: 7-1
  • Away: 9-0
  • Neutral: 14-5
  • Playoff: 2-0
  • In-State: 30-6
  • Out-of-State: 0-0

Conclusion

Marian and Clarkston’s successful seasons are shaping up to create an unforgettable rivalry. With Marian’s overall dominance and Clarkston’s flawless league record, these two teams could meet in the postseason for what promises to be a thrilling contest. As the season progresses, all eyes will be on these volleyball powerhouses to see who will emerge as Michigan’s top team. Whether at home or on the road, both Marian and Clarkston are proving they are among the best in high school volleyball.